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

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

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

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

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

Does Anyone Know What the Opposite of Bullying is?

Hope you all had a wonderful week full of shopping, picnics and last minute summer vacations! Amidst my hectic week of traveling, working and meeting with friends, I came across this interesting article, The Positive Psychology of Empathy. This really got me thinking in a totally new direction.

What is the opposite of bullying? I never really thought about it before diving into this piece. The article's author, Patty O'Grady, Ph.D, says the answer is empathy. Think about it. When you put your own perceptions aside and think about how the other is feeling and understand, you tend to draw closer to that person. He or she becomes a real human being with feelings that matter and not someone to pick on.

I have to admit, the article gets into some pretty deep, scientific stuff. Talking about what happens inside your body when you feel empathy etc.. I'm not a science girl at all, instead I'm the crafty, imaginative, creative person. Regardless of all that, this is fascinating and I hope you think so too. 

Do you ever wonder why when you see someone else cry, you feel like crying? The motor neurons are the culprit. On the flipside these special neurons are a good thing because as the article describes, we each can empathize with one another. When we stop and think about the other person's feelings and how we would feel if we were in that situation, we tend to not shoot our mouths off or purposely hurt another person. 

I encourage you to empathize with your friends, family and neighbors. How would you feel if you were having a bad day and someone decided to trip you on the way down the stairs? What if your uncle passed away and you felt like crying all day? We should care about each other, not tear one another up. What good does that do? Nothing. 

My last thought I impart onto you all is, put yourself in another person's shoes and empathize instead of putting them down. Who knows, maybe you have something in common.

SNAPBACK AGAINST BULLYING

-Ruth 

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. :)

Style Tip of the Day: How to wear your Graphic T Street Style

image from Who What Wear

T-shirts are so great for so many things; bedtime, errand time, couch time and lounging! BUT what about dressing up your favorite tee for a funkier everyday look? Combining your classic tee with a printed blazer and layered statement necklaces creates some tomboy edge and transforms your outfit!

Don't have a favorite tee?? Nobul has you covered (see below) our grey shirts are NOW ON SALE!! SHOP NOW! Not only will you look fabulous in our classic t-shirt you will be spreading the message to be a POSITIVE person and to make a commitment to no bullying! Being Nobul means loving yourself and others and appreciating human differences.

Paris Fashion Week: Street Style Gone Nobul

Street Style Fashionistas during Paris Fashion Week can't get enough of our Nobul Snapbacks! We love how these ladies use Nobul to accessorize their looks in such a strong way...

The pops of color in this shabby, everyday chic look are fabulous. We love how she paired our floral snapback with her edgy crop top to balance her look! 

Black on black on black is always a Nobul favorite! We love the bold statement of our oversized Nobul snapback and how she used it to perfectly accent her sleek look.





Not only do these ladies look fierce, they are standing up for a Nobul cause. Their snapbacks are sending  powerful messages of love, peace and acceptance. Grab your snapback HERE and join our Nobul Nation. Be Positive. Be Yourself. Be Nobul.

Original images found on ELLE

My Brown Baby - Teaching Girls the Importance of Character

Denene Millner, author of the blog My Brown Baby, wrote a very interesting article for Refinery 29 on what's wrong with telling a little girl she's pretty. Millner has a beautiful four-year-old daughter who receives compliments on her beauty frequently. This makes Millner uncomfortable not because she doesn't want her daughter to hear she's beautiful, but because she thinks there is more to her beauty than just her cuteness. She tells her daughter her beauty runs deep,"You're so pretty...but more importantly, you're smart and kind and have the type of stubborn determination that'll take you places." Millner says in raising her daughter she stresses the importance of building intellect, being honest, having a strong body and being compassionate.

Millner explains that the seeds she sprinkles in our "color struck, body-obsessed, white-washed world" are  seeds of self acceptance and positivity. She tells her daughter. " Yes, you’re a cutie, but really that means nothing in comparison to the beauty of character. That’s what will carry you through life with grace. That’s what will help you make lasting relationships and wise decisions. That’s what will help you realize how truly full of beauty you are. Not because of your smile, but because of the way it radiates warmth. Not because of your eyes, but because of how they see good in others. Not because of your hair, but because of how it reflects your bursting personality. Your beauty is ever-present. You don’t need eyes to see it.”

Millner's daughter is so lucky to be raised by such a strong, smart woman. By teaching the importance of character, Millner is providing her daughter with the most important tools for a successful, happy life. My mother raised me with similar morals and taught me the importance of being a good person and treating other people with respect. To be cliche, I was taught true beauty is on the inside. I am sure the reason Millner's daughter receives so many compliments on her beauty is because she is so wonderful on the inside that it shows outwardly.