On September 11, 2001, we experienced unimaginable horror -- not just from the destruction of the Twin Towers but from the footage of people in other countries celebrating our pain. Watching them dance in the streets felt like a second blow, a reminder of how cruel the world could be.

Now, fast forward to today. If you're one of the people cheering the assassination of a health-care CEO, how are you any different?

If the reports are true, this wasn't just a random killing. It was a calculated act of terrorism aimed at sending a message to corporate leaders. Companies are now pulling executives' photos offline and increasing security because they see what this means.

And yet, some of us are celebrating. When terrorism was aimed at us, we were horrified that anyone could celebrate such cruelty. But when it's aimed at someone we don't like, suddenly we think it's OK? Isn't that the same thing?

Terrorism is terrorism -- whether it targets a building or a person. If we condemn it when it's directed at us but cheer it when it's someone else, we're no better than the people we once judged so harshly.

The Sept. 11 celebrations showed us something ugly: the willingness to celebrate suffering when it aligns with our grievances. Now, as some cheer this CEO's death, we're risking that same ugliness in ourselves.

If we truly stand against terrorism, we have to stand against it every time -- no matter the target.

Steve Merritt Melbourne

The holiday season is a season of joy, but for many, it can also be a time of tremendous stress, family conflict, financial strain, loneliness, and emotions that can lead to alcohol- and drug-related deaths.

A recent CDC study released in 2024 ranked Florida in the 75th percentile in the United States for the largest number of drinks consumed on an occasion among people who binge drink, with an average of 7.7 drinks per individual during a binge drinking episode.

December is also Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) awareness month, and some individuals may experience signs of SAD, such as sadness, sleeping more than normal, social isolation and changes in appetite.

Here are tips to help you and your loved ones navigate the highs and lows of the holiday season:

Get plenty of exercise. Exercising boosts your mood and combats depression.

Limit alcohol intake. Alcohol is a depressant that can cause feelings of anxiety, sadness and depression.

Set healthy boundaries and don't overextend yourself. Setting realistic expectations can help reduce stress.

If you feel overwhelmed or the need to get help to address your feelings or substance use, contact a counselor.

For serious mental health or substance use issues, more intense treatment options might be a more appropriate choice than attempting to manage your condition without the support of a professional. By calling 2-1-1, you can be connected with local resources that can provide the services you need to lead a healthier and happier life.

If you're struggling this holiday season, know that you're not alone and help is available.

Maria Bledsoe Orlando

Maria Bledsoe is the CEO of Central Florida Cares Health Systems, which manages substance use and mental health services in Brevard, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties.

In the last election, I thought the candidates and the amendments were well presented. When voters go into the voting booth, it may well be the most private time in their life for making decisions. As they leave the booth they should not contemplate what their votes said about the candidates, but rather what their vote says about them? This could well prompt much of their conversation in the days and weeks ahead.