Protection Not Just In Schools Anymore

Did you know that the city of Nashville is trying to implement a new policy about bullying in public parks? YES! This southern city wants the staff of Metro Parks and Recreation to report any acts considered bullying or harassment whether by co-workers or visitors to these public places. This could potentially be another stepping stool to a better environment for all of us. The more ways bullies can get caught, the less they will try.

This policy in Nashville's parks, community centers and Metro golf courses matches the school systems after-school, camp and other youth programs' policies already put in place. This idea has been talked about amongst the individuals involved with the Metro Department of Law for a number of years. Only recently, has a lawsuit come up against a transgender woman, Pamela DeSoto, who has been harassed by members of her fellow police officers. According to the Director of Metro Parks, Tommy Lynch, this policy isn't a result of this lawsuit. Regardless, this policy sounds like a step in the right direction not only for Nashville but for all of us. Maybe other towns and cities will follow their leading.

According to a new WalletHub study, Nashville currently ranks 6th worst for bullying. Arkansaw being the worst. Massachusetts being the best. Connecticut is somewhere in between, but that's no cause for celebration. We all have work to do and I hope as the months and years go by, we as a state and a country get better at controlling these bullies that have wreaked havoc on people's lives.

--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

Stories

Hope everyone is having a fantabulous week! Today, I wanted to bring your attention to this project: SELF EVIDENT TRUTHS. There is a lot to this site so I'm going to point out something that spoke to me. The first being a video I actually saw awhile ago and has brought tears to my eyes yet again. As a whole, the message this website is broadcasting is the fact that we all are unique and should be seen as individuals worthy of respect. Too often, we label others based on their skin color, accent, neighborhood or what "status" they have in society. This is not right. Why? Because everyone is different but first and foremost, a human being.

The video is about stories and how very often we only have as Chimamanda Adichie states, "a single story." For example, a friend tells you about a fight he/she had with a mutual friend. Until you've heard both sides, you haven't heard it all. Don't assume you've heard the whole story when in reality you've only heard one. Sometimes things get skewed or misunderstood. There have been countless times where I've wished people would have asked me what my side of the story was instead of assuming or looking at the situation one sided.

Another point worth mentioning, again, is that even though differences can be scary, getting to know people is a way to break down barriers. When we approach a person who has a disability we've never seen or from a country we've never explored or even someone who's just plain different from us. Instead of having a story already in our heads, let's be open minded and let them tell their story. Honestly, I wouldn't have the amount of uniqueness in my life if I hadn't had the courage to walk up people who were different from me. Exchange stories with someone new. See what he/she says about themselves. It may just be a whole new world.

--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

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

Robin Williams - Idealistic and Loveable

As we all know by now, the actor Robin Williams passed away in his home in California on August 11, 2014. He was a gifted comedian and actor who had struggles just like you and me. His wife, Susan Schneider, issued a statement ending with "...His greatest legacy, besides his three children, is the joy and happiness he offered to others, particularly to those fighting personal battles." "Robin McLaurin Williams." Bio. A&E Television Networks, 2014. Web. 17 Aug. 2014. Even though his life ending in a tragic way, we can all learn from his inspiration and constant encouragement to "beeeee yourself" (from Genie in Aladdin).

I'm sure we all have favorite movies we shared with him, so I'll share mine which is Flubber. Personally, I found the movie to be hilarious! Flubber, which was an invention of Robin William's character, Professor Phillip Brainard, was a film that passed on the message of "The stuff that dreams are made of." This brings me to a quote of his that I think goes hand in hand with Nobul Apparel's theme.

"No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world." 

                                                                                    - Robin Williams

This is exactly what we are trying to do. Nobul wants to change people's perspectives on bullying. Not only that, but to take it one step further and think about the consequences of those actions. I strongly believe that many people get roped into bullying others because "everyone hates so and so" or they are scared they will get bullied if they don't become the bullier. Our idea of spreading inclusion instead of oppression can change how people think. Each one of you can change the world, your world, when you act differently than your peers. Take the video on Nobul's website, about the football team who decided to take a stand. Each person on that team could have decided to treat Keith like many others choose too, by bullying him, but instead they decided to really make him a member of their team.

No matter how uncommon your idea is if it makes someone else feel welcomed, do it! Who knows, maybe you'll change your world. :)

Look at the Other Side

Having a good day so far? As the new intern for Nobul Apparel, I wanted to introduce myself and give you something to think about regarding the topic of bullying.

For starters, my name is Ruth Jackson and I hail from the town of Windsor, CT where I was born and raised. My parents valued both of their children's vast interests and individualities. Growing up, I wanted to be a nurse, then a veterinarian, a librarian, an airline pilot and now, an author. My disability hindered many career paths and I found myself thinking, "I can't." In school, people thought I was stupid and sometimes contagious. All I wanted, still do, is a friend who cares and wants to get to know me. I hope this video will inspire you to reach out to those who are different from you.

Being different isn't something to be ashamed of. Instead, you should explore your personal uniqueness and meet others who are not quite like you. You never know what you might find out. Whether the person has a disability or is from another country, you should ask. Broaden your horizons! I invite you to watch this short video about life as a unique person in this world.

On a personal note, people with disabilities very often have the most amazing ways of viewing life. Having a disability is hard, I know. Most of my life was spent trying to figure out how I fit in this world. It's difficult being different and some people don't realize how difficult. I agree with both Alex and Skye, asking is the best way to get to know someone. I too, rather have someone ask about my difference rather than gossip or bully me about it.

I thoroughly love meeting new people for the purpose of hearing their stories. A guy I met a few years ago, I will name him Charlie, was from Botswana. He opened my eyes to how some people live. The continent of Africa is a strange place to me, I've never been there, only seen pictures from the news or history books. The media often only tells one side of a story so hearing a person's first hand account is most likely more accurate. He grew up poor with seven brothers and sisters. His parents never went to college and he was the first to go. Hearing his stories sometimes made me cry. What I have grown up with in America, he never had a taste of until coming to Washington DC for college. I had never met someone like him and I look forward to meeting new people with awesome stories to tell!

So next time you meet someone and you find out they are from a tiny island in the middle of the Mediterranean you've never heard of or they have dyslexia, just ask them about it! It's amazing what you can find out!

-Ruth Jackson

News Anchor Responds To Hurtful Letter About Her Weight With Eloquence

 

A Morning News 8 anchor received an extremely insulting letter surrounding her weight which called her a "bad example" for young girls across America. The News anchor handled the situation with poise and understanding and teaches us all something in her response.

If you want to learn more about the actual correlations between weight and health and the associated myths that lead to bullying and bigotry like this, check out The Fat Nutritionist.

Johnny Cupcakes - Inspirational Entrepreneur

Johnny Earle, better known as JohnnyCupcakes, started his t-shirt line in 2001 at the age of 19 selling merchandise out of suitcases from the back of his car. Now, Johnny is recognized as one of the 30 most innovative businessmen in Massachusetts and was voted America's #1 Young Entrepreneur by Bloomberg BusinessWeek. Johnny Cupcake has expanded to 6 Bakery locations world wide where he sells his iconic t-shirts, sweaters, shorts, under garments and pins. You will not find his garments in any other retail store which adds to the exclusivity of the brand and reflects his authenticity to not "sell out" to corporate America. Motivated by passion and not greed, Johnny is an inspiration to the Nobul Brand.

Johnny created a lecture series on how to start a unique business with little to no start up money. He travels to colleges, universities and high schools around the country to share his experiences and spread knowledge around good business practices.