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

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

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