Things Are More Than They Appear

If only it would stop, people's self-esteem would be higher.

If only it would stop, kids would look forward going to school everyday.

If only it would stop, they wouldn't soak their pillows with tears every night.

If only it would stop, there would be hundreds less friendless people.

If only bullying would stop.


bully 1 |ˈboŏlē|
noun ( pl. -lies)
a person who uses strength or power to harm or intimidate those who are weaker.

Name calling. Blackmailing. Insulting. Threatening. Teasing. Stealing someone else' things. Physical and verbal abuse. All are forms of bullying. Others may laugh, the person himself may laugh at these "harmless jokes", but you never know. That person could be having a hard time at home. That person could be one of those people who cry in their pillows every night and asking God, "Why me?"

Check yourself. How have you been treating others? Would you want them to treat you that way? What have you been saying to them? Are they offensive? Would Jesus be pleased with the things you say and how you treat others?

If you're not a bully, but see people being bullied, stand up for what's right. Help the victim. Tell the bully to back off. Protect your friend. Listen when he or she needs to talk. When things get out of hand, inform the school authorities.

I know a true story about a boy named Eric. Just because he liked theater arts and music, he was often called "gay" and some other names I won't repeat. He was always called names, being teased, and being pushed, shoved, and hit by his schoolmates. One day, someone said something especially cruel to him. That person said, "Why don't you just go home and shoot yourself? No one will miss you."

And you know what?


Eric did.


He was only 17 years old.






Stop the pain. Stop the cruelty. Stop the suicides.


Stop bullying.