Another teen has killed themselves due to being the victim of bullying.

We are demonstrating right now, in this country, that bullying is not only accepted, but a powerful political tactic and defended as a “constitutional right”.  I know what I am saying may not be popular, but I am tired of it and am speaking up.  That is what we are morally obligated to do. Regardless of what our opinions are on politics, health care reform or really anything, we do not need to resort to inciting violence or referring to ‘reloading’, etc. As a nation, we have criticized other nations for resorting to violence and threats and tapping into the deepest fears of others to promote personal gains at any cost.  We demonize the “other”.  Rather than discussion, we are battling.

So, why is bullying on the rise?  Are kids just doing what is considered more acceptable if someone isn’t what they want them to be?  If kids see adults dehumanize and threaten others with violence…even when the adults are elected officials, then how are our children to understand this behavior is unacceptable?

If adults are not willing to speak up, regardless of whether it is uncomfortable and will have consequences, then how will our children know to be empowered to speak up?  Bullying is tough.  It isn’t just one person.  It takes a group…of onlookers who do nothing, and others who side with the bully because they enjoy the power, or are afraid to be on the receiving end by speaking up.

Regardless of where we are on any political or social spectrum, we need to constantly remind ourselves of the kind of world we want to live in.  We can’t expect to help lift up other countries when we are using the same fear and violence tactics in our own country.  We have to teach our children and remind ourselves that there are many opinions, many gifts in one another and that respect and finding ways to bridge those are the best way to go through life and to create a better world.

We have choices about how to use our voices.  Let’s be the best human beings that we can.  Let’s light the way for the next generation.  Let’s make bullying, intolerance and hurtful actions and speech not an option anywhere or anytime. Let’s make differences of opinions not be a barrier, but an opportunity to become a more well-rounded community and to see things differently, even if you agree to disagree.  Let’s choose to make this world a more connected and compassionate place where all of our children (and adults) can flourish and grow.