There's an App for that!

Believe it or not someone came up with an app that let's kids report bullying anonymously. YES! Now we can finally say there's an app for everything! Here is the article all about it.

The purpose behind this app, Stop!t is a great one and I can only hope schools across the country will see this as a valuable tool that will help kids growing in a more stable and healthy school environment. Telling someone is half the battle of getting these bullies to stop. The way the internet is progressing and technology booming, if we don't take measures to put an end to this, we will have more kids living in turmoil.

I love the fact that the founder, Todd Schobel, is already thinking about expanding upon his original idea and offering the same concept to the military and workplaces. This is definitely an app everyone should have! Can't wait to see this in action. I seriously hope that administrators and schools will take this app seriously and provide the funds so that they can experience kids' having a great time at school instead of dreading it.

Back in highschool, I still remember not wanting to go to school because I knew the people I had to face. There was always going to be a new name to call me or make fun of me for. I couldn't escape it. If I had the Stop!t App, I might have been able to record what these kids were doing. If cyberbullying were apart of my world growing up, I honestly have no idea how I'd stand it. At least when I went home, I was safe. Nowadays, no one is safe because we have social media everywhere. This app will definitely change things.

--Ruth Jackson

A Belated Valentine's

In light of Valentine's Day, I thought I would write a post specifically about love. This day isn't just about a boyfriend/girlfriend or husband/wife it's about showing love to those you care about as well as those who are around you. I can show love towards my co-workers, my family, my friends AND my boyfriend. 

Bullies don't show love, instead they show contempt, hatred, jealousy and/or rage. They don't care about someone else's feelings. All they want is to make themselves look and feel good. If they have to break some bones or step on people to get there, that's what they will do. We should be the complete opposite. As part of being "nobul" we want to help others be comfortable being themselves, lift them up and include them. It doesn't matter what background they have or what language they speak; each person is unique. If the whole world was like me, life would be boring. Think about it. 

Here's a challenge for you all. Take a look around your neighborhood or place of work. Is there anyone you don't know that well? Anyone that you've deemed "strange" because you simply don't understand them? Why not get to know them. Start with sharing some cookies you've made and ask them personally "Do you like them?" Or maybe just complimenting them on a shirt or tie. Sometimes the simplest gesture can mean the world to someone. 

Be Nobul

--Ruth Jackson

Safe Schools Improvement Act

Today as I was figuring out what the next blog post should be about, I came across this article. This is relatively new and I hadn't yet heard about it in the news. I feel like I should be all for this new bill, but I am having concerns. Maybe you all can think for yourselves for a minute, would this improve things or make things worse? What would you change to make schools a better place?

In a nutshell, this Safe Schools Improvement Act basically forces educational leaders (who receive money from the government like public schools) to come up with a plan to help stop current and future bullying problems. On the one hand I agree with Senator Mark Kirk who talked about every child needing a safe place to learn. The other side of this issue is the fact that this will be "forced" upon these people who are already overworked and underpaid. Granted, integration was forced on the people of Little Rock, AK and look where we are now. Sometimes ideas need to be forced, but it's going to be a long hard road.

In my opinion, the idea is spot in that we desperately need a law in place that protects kids from being beaten up because of race, sex etc. To go even further, if/when this bill is passed, together we need to continue helping others see the negative consequences of bullying. So many schools have the tendency to ignore the problems their students face in fear of negative publicity or maybe just plain shame. It's time to take action and to let the principals and teachers of these schools know that they can and SHOULD do something to help.

I like how Ellen Khan describes the intent of this Act, "puts more teeth in taking action." This world definitely needs it. I can't wait to read more in the upcoming months on how this bill progress and if there will be additions or modifications to make this change easier.

What do you think about it all? Would you have suggestions for Congress? This very well be the much needed next step to encouraging our youth in the right direction.

--Ruth Jackson

Never Say Never

Anthony Ianni, former MSU basketball player, should be considered a notable role model not only for those with disabilities, but those who have heard the words, "You can't." Here is an article about his recent speech.

I don't know about you but I hate hearing the words, "You can't." Doesn't that just make you bow your head in shame? Anthony's doctors told him he couldn't play sports and couldn't go to college. Guess What? He's a graduate from Michigan State University and he plays basketball. HA! I wonder how his parents felt.

In this speech he made on his "Relentless Tour" against bullying, he talks about making a difference "one person at a time." This is exactly what we at Nobul are striving to do for every one of you. Violence isn't the answer and Anthony knew that. Hope and inspiration are what got him through and what also got me through those tough times.

"Don't give up," is a motto I believe everyone should hold close to their hearts. In the words of one of my favorite characters in the movie Gifted Hands, "You can do anything anyone else can do, only you can do it better." Go after your dreams and don't let anyone else bring you down with the words, "You can't," because YOU CAN!

--Ruth Jackson

The Nick Lowery Foundation

I going to come right out and say that this man's, Nick Lowery, stand on bullying is an excellent example to follow. Nick is a former NFL player and the founder of the Nick Lowery Foundation. His website here, has many videos and programs geared at the American youth in order to spread awareness of bullying.

I for one, love absolutely love his mission statement:

"We are dedicated to return America to greatness by refocusing Education and Youth Development on (A) unleashing each child's unique Creativity and (B) harnessing these creative new ideas with Leadership skills to transform them into new community assets and products."

Nick is inspiring kids to be leaders, to stand up for people when no one else is watching.

I'm not saying this is the ONLY way to help the current crisis but this is definitely a way to promote inclusion amongst our youngsters. The earlier they understand this powerful truth, the better off they will be as they get older and face other issues. Spreading awareness of bullying helps these kids not to become bullies themselves. Once these kids hold onto this, they can in turn help the younger generation follow the right path which is why Lowery's point B is to give them leadership skills. This is an important aspect of awareness. If the older generation doesn't teach the younger ones the right way, they will make the same mistakes we did.

Let's all be Champions Against Bullying and stand up for one another!

--Ruth Jackson

Bullies on the Big Screen

Boy is it COLD outside!!! I just want to snuggle underneath a blanket and watch a movie. Speaking of which, I've noticed many of the movies I have come to love and watch over and over again have a character that's a bully. Honestly, I didn't really think about it before. Bullies seem to appear in most movies set in a school or surround the life of a young person usually under 18. In High School Musical, there's Sharpay. In 17 Again, there's Stan. In 13 going on 30, there's Lucy. In Despicable Me, there's Gru, Miss Hattie and Despicable Me 2, you have El Macho. In Back to the Future there's Biff. Watching each character taunt, humiliate or utterly destroy someone's confidence/self esteem makes my heart just plummet.

I wanted to bring this to attention because there's a lesson to be learned. Now, I realize these are fiction films, but nevertheless these things happen in real life. I still remember watching the movie, Cyberbully, and having a million emotions go through me. What I went through was nothing compared to what Taylor was feeling. Regardless, no one has any right to treat someone else like dirt. Not a single person. I'm sure many of us have felt similar maybe even wished we weren't alive, but there is something to be said about staying strong and fighting the fight. The key for me to keep myself from falling into believing the lies fed to me from bullies is to remind myself daily that Ruth Jackson is in fact a one-of-a-kind human being and nothing can bring me down!

Here is a list of movies with bullies in them. Some of them I haven't seen yet, but I plan to! Think about what these characters are doing. If you realize you've been doing the same thing, make a change. If you see a classmate being cornered, be their "hero." Sometimes it's scary whether you are being bullied or standing up for someone else, but it's the right thing to do. Be the person others can look up to.

--Ruth Jackson

Let's Start the New Year Fresh

An article on Fox News found HERE speaks to the string of suicides in the United States that have been linked to bullying. This article tells the story of Amber Cornwell who took her life at the age of 16. We send our love and condolences to Amber's family and friends.

My heart breaks for those families and kids who are either grieving or wrestling with thoughts of ending their life. Every time a news story comes out like this, it makes me want to rally even stronger against bullying. We have got to change the mindset of kids and administrators alike that this is no laughing matter and is a very serious conversation.

"It's a Wonderful Life" plays across America around Christmas time because not only is it a classic but because there are lessons to be learned and held onto. I'm sure I'm not the only one who cries when George Bailey realizes what a wonderful life he has led and without him the town he grew up in would have been completely different. It causes me to look at my own life and be thankful for the loving family and friends that I have as well as force me to take a stand against those whose attitude mirrors Mr. Potter. Honestly, I can't see a realistic reason that would ever make it ok to push anyone down underneath your thumb. There have been studies done on why people bully such as they are being bullied, they are afraid of being bullied or they are feeling bad about themselves so they in turn force others to feel the same. All of these are terrible reasons to bully, but there is no right reason either.

My personal New Year's Resolution is to be more verbal about my stance on this issue. So when I see someone being bullied at work or when I'm babysitting, I will say something. I hope you will join me and take a stand to make our children safer and elimite suicides caused by bullying. There needs to be a change and the new year is a perfect way to start! Happy New Year!!!!

--Ruth Jackson

A Christmas Story

Christmas is just around the corner!! Can you believe it? Before we know it, we will all have to double check we wrote the date right! Many awesome things in store for Nobul in the coming year and we would like to thank you for reading our blog and being a part of what Nobul stands for.

Today, I came across an article about an actor in the movie 'A Christmas Story' who decided to stand up against bullying. Zack Ward, who played Scut Farkus, talks about how he feels about the issue penetrating kids and teens' lives across America. This is definitely a conversation that needed to happen and still does.

"I don't believe that children who are happy and content and feel loved and supported — those children don't go out and bully anybody," says Ward, who continued his career in acting in films such as Transformers, Almost Famous and numerous TV shows. Ward's point is very important it highlights the fact that we shouldn't just treat the symptoms of bullying, rather we need to go directly to the source. Sure, we can tell kids "don't bully one another" but if we don't offer an alternative or talk to the parents about the problem in depth, we will accomplish nothing. I love the fact that the actor who plays a bully sees the negative implications of his "actions."

I'm glad that his role of being the bully brought changes to Zack's understanding of the world as well as the harm that bullying can do. Not everyone has to play a bully in a movie or play in order to understand that bullying isn't a good thing. Personally, I'm extremely thankful for Zack sharing his point of view and encouraging others to be nicer to each other. We should be doing this year round, not just around Christmas time.

Hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday whatever you celebrate!

--Ruth Jackson

"The Elephant in the Room"

Hi Everyone!

For some of us the semester is coming to a close and others it's just frenzy all the way around. The last week or so following Black Friday, life has jumped into hyper-drive, every waking moment is filled with something to accomplish and every sleeping moment is spent figuring out the next step. Anyways, let's get away from all that and focus on something that I feel isn't talked about enough. It seems that in our culture people aren't aware of pressing issues until someone dies, a phenomenon happens or news stories are splashed in front of our eyes for more than a 24hr period. None of these occurrences should have to happen in order for our nation, government or school system to wake up to what is really going on. Cyberbullying is a huge issue in our culture today and we need to start taking action to teach our youth the importance of creating safe, respectful online presences for themselves. Unfortunately, cyberbullying is so prominent it causes children to hurt themselves in many ways.

An article I found in the Huffington Post, Cyberbullying: The Elephant in the Room,  talks about Cyberbullying and the rampant movement of people, kids especially, being tormented and eventually leading to a non-reversible act. Many bullies prefer to harass online because it's virtually, no pun intended, anonymous. Today, we have the power to post things without sharing our names. So when someone does throw someone else down hard, it's difficult to figure out who is talking. Personally, I'm glad I didn't get a Facebook page until college. High school was bad enough without social media. 

In a nutshell, as parents, supervisors, guardians, teachers, older siblings etc. we all need to become better role models for those still growing up. We need to be "cyber-shields."  We NEED to be more aware of what is happening on the internet.  Lets inspire our youth to be loving instead of hateful.

To help protect yourself online you can:

- Keep your information private online and keep private information offline altogether
- Report users with abusive comments to website personnel, generally there is a "report user" button on websites that allow comments
- Tell someone you trust if you are being cyber bullied, a teacher, parent, friend or adult who can help
- If you see someone else being cyber bullied tell someone

--Ruth Jackson

Happy Thanksgiving

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I happened upon this website about a Thanksgiving Prayer written by a young child.

I would venture to say that many people who have been bullied understand what this child is trying to say and hopefully we can follow her lead. It's hard not to want to fight "fire with fire," but we should try to find a positive way to deal with it. My way? I used to bury myself into a fiction novel like Nancy Drew. It wasn't until I was older, in high school, when I decided to be the best Ruth Jackson I could be and not let their taunts get to me. Granted, that was not an easy thing to do but I couldn't stand going home and crying my heart out anymore.

Another website I found here gives a similar message conveying giving thanks for what we have yet keeping in mind those who are without a loved one. The state of Connecticut in particular has seen many cases where bullying goes to court and very often the behavior doesn't change. I'm sure other states have this issue as well including those who commit suicide. Bullying is not a laughing matter. It's a serious one that needs attention and I wholeheartedly agree with the writer, Mathew Jones, when he says, "We believe in reaching kids while they are young. Once they grow up change becomes much harder."

Together, we can make a difference. HAVE A HAPPY THANKSGIVING! Gobble Gobble!

--Ruth Jackson

One Voice

Hello everyone! Today, I came across such a moving music video that I just had to share it with you. Here is the link. On the web page, the singer Nakita Turner, also shows a drawing that sends a powerful message.

One thing that I liked about this video as a whole is that there are people singing this from all walks of life and every nationality. Just listening to it, you honestly can't put a label on it. It's not a black song, it's not a white country song, instead it's just a song about putting an end to bullying. A simple and uplifting message of positivity.

Further down on the page, next to the lyrics there are questions I would like you all to think about. Do people's voices matter? Is is only some people or all people? Who gives you a voice that has a right to be heard? Not the bully...it's you! You have every right to be heard.

Here is a picture shown at the bottom of the website:

Do you think the words written in the picture would hurt a person or make them laugh? What are some positive words you can say to someone to make them smile? My drawing? It would be filled with the words/phrases "I love you" "You can do better" "HUGS!" "Smile" "There is a reason you're here" "Every minute is precious" "You got this!" "Don't give up" "I'm glad you're my friend" "Chocolate!" and I can come up with so many more. What can you come up with?

To learn more about Nakita, here is a news article about her and how she came up with this song, "One Voice."

Your voice matters so shout it loud and clear! Make a difference!

--Ruth Jackson

Difference Shouldn't Equal Scary

Today I want to introduce a commercial recently done by General Electric. When I first watched it, I was floored by the realness of it and how close the video hit home for me. I will admit also that the first few seconds after seeing the creature made me sick to my stomach. These feelings were caused by fear. I was truly afraid of what I was about to see, that I didn't want to even watch. Since this commercial came on my computer while I was watching a TV show, my mouse hovered over another tab so that I could hide it until it was over. I'm so glad that I didn't because the message G&E is portraying is a powerful one that many need to understand and appreciate.

There are a lot of things I could mention about this video, but I will limit myself to sharing two reactions. The first being that this "monster" is treated cruelly. Why? Because he's ugly, he's different, he's scary. Just because someone or something is weird or makes you uncomfortable doesn't justify you to have the right to treat it/the person horribly. How would you feel if that man threw a cup at you or if that woman yelled at you to "GET OUT!"?

Another point worth mentioning is that bullies tend to be the ones to lash out at those who are different. They huddle in groups and whisper. They feel pity. Why not lend a helping hand instead? Why not be a friend? I asked myself while watching this, "When we see someone who's different, why do so many treat them with contempt before getting to know them?" I love the fact that General Electric has made this commercial because it makes us think, really think about those new ideas and how we treat them.

It's true that "Ideas can be scary" but that shouldn't mean we should stay away. Instead, we should be like that G&E employee and help that "idea" grow into something more beautiful than we could ever imagine. Think about those inventors that got laughed at and now look around you. We have the light bulb, traffic lights, airplanes, solar energy all because those inventors didn't give up. If they all succumbed to taunts I'm sure they received, we wouldn't have the world we live in today.

If I ever get the chance to meet the person who came up with the initial idea for this commercial, I will applaud them! Well Done!

--Ruth Jackson

It Can Start with You (part 2)

In continuation of my last post, I wanted to talk more about what you can do about bullying. I found this article, Creating a Cyber-Shield Through Parenting and Awareness, on Huffington Post which is directed at parents in particular, but it's a good read for all of us.

Huffington Post has a number of articles surrounding the topic of bullying and this one discusses cyberbullying. Since the beginning of social media, there have been cyberbullies. Whether it be Facebook, Twitter, of even here on Blogger. Bullies still say hurtful things in person, but it's become more prevalent to throw even more lashes online. What can you do about it?

The article linked here talks about parents being a "cyber-shield' for their children. Personally, I believe this is a great way to monitor what your children are saying and receiving. There is however, a right and wrong way to do this. As children are growing older, they should be allowed to make decisions on their own, but at the same time be mindful. I love the fact that this piece gives examples and advice to parents in order for them to be a cyber-shield and cyber-role model for their kids.

Growing up, I'm glad I wasn't on Facebook. I was more of a reader and enjoyed playing soccer in my downtime. Even so, keeping young kids away from social media might not be such a bad road to take. The younger they are, the more susceptible they are. While they are in high school, even though bullies can be more vicious here, giving them access to social media, but being a cyber-shield can be beneficial. This gives the tweens and teens ability to talk to one another and share ideas, pictures, videos and even articles. There are some things that texting just isn't capable of doing.

Granted, I don't have kids of my own right now, but I hope when I get to that point I will be able to be an effective cyber-shield for my children. All it takes is for the parent/guardian to understand the implications of bullying and be willing to take the time to teach their child how to behave in person as well as online. It can start with YOU! What will you do in the fight against bullying?

--Ruth Jackson

It Can Start with YOU

Hello everyone! For those of you in school, it's almost halfway until the end of first semester!

Today, I wanted to talk more about what you can do to stop bullies in their tracks. I found National Education Association (NEA) a couple days ago that talks specifically about what educators and teachers can do about bullying. Many schools are advocating for a bully-free school zone, but until teachers and administrators take action, that thought is just a thought.

Looking back at my growing up years in school, I wish the adults in my life took a stand against the bullies that kept attacking me. Some thought I would learn to overcome adversity through all this, but even though I  can sense that what I went through made me stronger and stand up for myself, having someone around who cared and wanted to help would have made such a difference. This is why whenever I see someone else being bullied, I make my presence known. NEA's president Lily Eskelsen Garcia explains, "I hope to never hear an educator or parent or a Sunday School teacher say to a frightened bullied child, 'Just ignore it.' School that are seeing a decrease in bullying are no ignoring it. They are acting."

I'll admit, I'm a no nonsense kind of girl and I take bullying seriously because I know what it's like. Whether or not you know what it's like to be bullied, take a stand and let that kid know he/she is not alone. Help them build confidence. Even if no one else is standing by their side, it can start with you.

Ignoring the issue is not the solution. Facing it head on and being a verbal/active advocate makes the difference. You don't have to be the hero in the moment, even if you just acknowledge what happened afterwards you will be doing the right thing. You can send a simple text message, or just let the person know that you saw what happened and you don't think it is okay.

Check out the website I linked above. Make a difference and let it start with YOU!

--Ruth Jackson

Focus on the Bullies

Today I want to shift our perspective. For awhile, I've been talking about being bullied. This time I want to discuss the bully.

I found this article to be quite fascinating: Overcoming Bullying and Depression. While it is long, I'm only going to talk about the first few paragraphs in particular. Personally, I was surprised at the statistics and research results from Education.com. The article explains that the bully and the bullied both experience increased depression and suicidal ideation as a result of their experience with being bullied and bullying another person. In fact, the bullies themselves have an "even higher rate of suicidal ideation than those being bullied." Psychologists explain that many bullies have psychological problems can can be causing the bullying. Looking back at my high school life, I'm trying to think if maybe the kids who bullied me were in a bad place emotionally.

Looking at the bully from a wider scope doesn't mean we excuse their behavior it just helps us understand their behavior. Bullies are humans too and understanding their behavior can inspire compassion.

Reading this article I wondered if my bullies felt the same way as I did; alone, depressed, worthless and tired. A few times I even felt like running away and hiding somewhere in the woods so that I wouldn't have to go back to school.

Bullies are hurtful for all sorts of reasons. If we take a step back and think about where this hostile behavior is coming from, maybe instead of avoiding them you might just be able to understand them. You never know until you try.

If you or anyone else you know is suicidal or needs help please visit the KIDS HELPLINE here.

Have a great week!

--Ruth Jackson

Letting Go of Hatred

I want to thank Frankie, the co-founder of Nobul, who brought this particular TED Talk to my attention. There are quite a few TED Talks that speak to the topic of terrorism, but Zak's speech in particular, about overcoming the barriers he thought were impenetrable, is something worth listening to. Personally, I thought this was beyond powerful and courageous for him to do this.

I am the son of a terrorist. Here's how I chose peace.

Many people were taught to fear the "other,"people who were different from them, in their upbringing. Some people were told that Black people are less intelligent than white people, that people with disabilities are incapable of learning and that people from different religions than their own should be avoided.  Negative stereotypes like these separate communities, groups and people from each other. I do my best not to categorize people and instead look at them as an individual. My Dad in particular tried really hard to make sure we didn't listen to "You Can't" because "We Can!" Each one of us is unique and when we push negative thoughts aside and hold on to positive people around us, we can indeed soar!

Zak said many things that resonated with me and almost brought me to tears. It's true that hatred demands so much energy while liking someone is easy in comparison. There will always be people who we don't like and that's alright, we don't have to like everyone, but we have to respect them. Growing up, I've watched teachers make fun of kids in the classroom who were different which negatively influenced the environment. I encourage everyone, especially those in authority, to really take a look at themselves and make the necessary changes to bring positivity into the space.

To the younger crowd, I hope what Zak said makes sense. Zak explains that peace is a choice and violence is a choice and each one of us is in control of what we choose. Spreading joy, peace, love, goodness and a host of other positive emotions and actions is far easier than finding new ways to hurt someone because of who they are. Like Zak's mother said, "I'm tired of hating people." Turn that around and make someone smile instead of hurt.

Enjoy your week!

--Ruth Jackson

What Can You do about Bullying?

Hello Everyone!

I don't know about you, but I had a crazy busy week. Everyday was filled with work with only a bit of "me" time. One positive I can spin out of my hectic life is that I came across some books dealing with overcoming bullies. Some are geared for Elementary kids and others I found are for middle schoolers and above. The book I want to talk about today is more around a second grade reading level, but has interesting and I believe, important points made by the author.

The book is called, Llama Llama and the Bully Goat. What I want to highlight is that Llama told someone about the issue he was having with Bully Goat and his life changed for the better. Sometimes we think that telling someone will only make things worse. I agree, that there are cases where if you trust the wrong person, your plan backfires. This is why trust is so vitally important. With bullying on the rise, more and more adults/supervisors and teachers are being made aware of what to watch for and how to help you and me.

I'll never forget the time when a police officer came to my aid when a group of students were causing trouble for me. This was at a horse camp when I was around the age of 10. For whatever reason, these kids decided I was to be their target for the summer. Once I made it known that I was not happy at all with how they were treating me, the police officer stepped in. From that day forward he looked out of me and those kids didn't bother me one more time. Instead, I was able to forge to new friendship and had a great rest of Horse Camp. Honestly, if I hadn't talked with that police officer, I would have been miserable.

So I encourage you to either read Llama Llama and the Bully Goat or actively find someone you can trust. Whether or not you're in a bad situation now, try to pick out someone you'd go to for help so when the time comes, you know exactly who to go to.

I hope you all have a fantastic week!

--Ruth Jackson

Choices

Hello everyone! Gorgeous morning and I just saw some yellow leaves!! Super stoked for Fall, I even reorganized my closet and sadly put my shorts away. Looking back it was a busy working summer, but I did manage to have some fun in between. Never did get to the beach though....NEXT TIME!

Today, I wanted to talk about a site I came across a couple weeks ago here. When perusing the website, I felt honored to read people's stories about bullying; both sad and courageous ones. Even though middle school was a long time ago, I still remember the words thrown at me and the looks on their faces. There are so many stories on here and love the fact that there is such a place for kids to share and feel welcomed versus the atmosphere school gives.

Personally, I believe one of the biggest hurdles when being bullied is not feeling alone. This site helps kids not only see that other people are going through the same thing, but hopefully gives them courage to stand up. If it weren't for my friends growing up, I honestly have no idea where I'd be.

I choose respect, love, kindness, generosity, inclusion and peace! What do you choose?

--Ruth Jackson

Anti-Bullying Weekend - September 12 - 14

The weather has made it's choice, it's "officially" Fall! I'm actually not happy about this. I was wearing my flip flops yesterday and my feet were FREEEZZINNG!! Oh, well. We all knew it was coming.

Anyways, I'm not sure how many of you know this, but this past weekend was designated as "Anti-Bullying Weekend" by Springfield Massachusetts's Mayor Domenic Sarno. This event is in memory of an 11-year-old boy who committed suicide in 2009 due to bullying. Along with the Carl Joseph Walker-Hoover Foundation, they see the importance of spreading the word about the impact of bullying. Awareness is the key to helping put an end to this disrespect of each other.

Over the past four years, the foundation has raised money to distribute scholarships to high school seniors across the country that have demonstrated efforts to combat bullying in their schools and communities. Leaders and Mayors in various states have gotten together to help each other build a safer community.

Mark this on your calendars for next year, but also keep in mind what bullying does. Everything has a consequence. What's the consequence of bullying? Carl's story is just one of many.

If you are a high school senior who would like to apply for the scholarship you can do so HERE! Remember BE A BUDDY NOT A BULLY.


More about the event and foundation.

--Ruth Jackson

Understanding the Bully

Beautiful day outside yet, the weather can't seem to make up its mind between Summer and Fall. I actually feel that same way. On one hand, I don't want Summer to end, but....I do love Fall and its pretty colors and I love breaking out my sweatpants and cute sweaters. Each season has its benefits and beauty.

Today, I'd like to talk about the media/entertainment and its role in discussing bullying. Many movies have scenes where bullying takes place like the one I talked about earlier, "Bridge to Terabithia." According to the U.S. Department of Natural Health and Human Services, between 1 and 4 and 1 and 3 students say they have been bullied at school. There have been numerous studies done that show bullying effecting youth as they grow into adulthood.

One of the reasons why I wanted to join Nobul is because I feel very strongly about bullying not only since I've often been the target, but because I can still feel the effects. I love being able to speak out about bullying and have a chance to change people's thinking. Writing about it is one way to spread awareness as are speeches, advertisements, movies etc. When you feel strongly about something, I suggest you take action in whatever medium you feel comfortable using. Writing is my passion so I use it to talk about topics that mean something to me.

Many journalists, producers and the like have spoken against bullying which is definitely a good thing, though we must be careful not to become hateful. We want to spread inclusion not hate, especially not hate against the "bully" himself.  In many instances a person who is bullying another person is struggling in other areas of his or her life and it is important to show compassion to such individuals. We don't want to criminalize the bully, instead we want to teach the bully and the bullied how to self-regulate behavior and provide them with tools to manage difficult and stressful situations.

Goldie Hawn's foundation, MindUP, is a 12 step program that teaches children mindfulness to help improve perspective taking, empathy and kindness as well as foster complex problem solving skills.  This program embodies Nobul's mission and goals in creating a safe environment for all children.

No one should have to endure bullying. I believe the first step to snapback against bullying is to become aware of how great the problem is and to learn how we can help manage such situations. To see bullying statistics posted by the U.S. Government, here is the link.

--Ruth Jackson