Bullying. A problem we've always had, and unfortunately always will. If anything, it's gotten worse over time as now it can be done online. Cyber bullying has grown right along with social media and all things technology. People think they can get away with it easier than in person, and it just keeps coming.

Why am I talking about bullying. Well, recently in my area, a 7th grader committed suicide after being bullied. (Not posting name as it's not my place) 7th grade, that's 12/13 years old. It breaks my heart, it truly does. Why would anyone bully someone that young, let alone bully anyone at all. An innocent life has been taken all because people felt the need to put her down.

I may not have known her, but my heart still aches for her. I still cry for her. I still feel for her family and friends. I've seen bullying, hell, I've been bullied. It doesn't matter how big or small, the words still hurt. I can't even begin to imagine how awful she must have felt. How scared she must have been. I know what it's like to feel that low. I know how scary it can feel, how alone you are. I'm so sorry you felt that way my friend.

I don't even understand what bullies get out of it. How does hurting someone else make you feel good? Why are you wasting your time picking on someone when you could be doing more productive? When you could be helping someone? Do they not understand the consequences of bullying? Do they not know that they just wiped someone off this earth. That now so many more are in pain?

I hope the parents of the bullies are doing something. I hope they know and they teach their children that this is not okay. I hope the parents know better as well. My friend was bullied in high school, and the girls mom joined in on it. They were posting pictures of pigs and calling her incredible degrading names. How could a parent enable such behavior?

I know it's near impossible to stop bullying all together, but we need to try. Parents, please teach your kids about the importance of being kind. Monitor their social media while their young. Teachers, please be sure bullying is taken seriously and consequences wake people up. Too often have I seen bullies get off easy. Friends, fight with them. Be sure that if somethings wrong they don't feel alone. Help them delete posts, take a break, help them find their voice. To the bullied, tell someone. Just, please reach out and get help. You shouldn't have to go through something like this alone. And to the bullies, stop. No one deserves to be knocked down. Think about your friends, your family, anyone close to you. How would you feel if they were bullied? If they took their life? So I beg of you, stop. Think before you speak/post.

In a world where bullying has been made easy, we as a whole need to work harder. We need to recognize the problem and put a stop to it before it gets out of control. Lend a hand, be a friend.

National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255

Or visit: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/