Editor, The Times:
The news on bullying is overwhelming and truly heartbreaking. Lives should not be lost or taken because of mistreatment.
I hope to share what lies close to my heart because of my own experience. Overcoming this grief is not easy. In fact, it is a battle every day.
Being picked on causes a domino effect. Depression sets in and then questions of worth arise. Answers never come. Your thoughts spiral out of control. Everything seems bleak with no hope in sight. However, these thoughts can turn around with the proper help.
To the one being bullied, I say keep your head high, find the strength within and strive to stay alive.
Please look at yourself in the mirror. You might not want to see and believe it is you, but I can assure you it is the same person you have always been. And, too, I want you to remember the person looking back is a wonderful awesome being who has every right to be here.
Believing the nasty and hurtful lies said to you and about you is nonsense. Please try and rise above this torment.
Find someone you can confide in. This person needs to be someone you can trust and who can help make positive changes for you. Do not stop there. Search for others to help out. It is better to have many people involved to guide you along the way. Somehow you must believe that you are worthy, important and loveable. Do not let the bully crush your hopes and dreams, and do not let him or her win.
Remember who you are and what lies ahead. Most importantly, remember there are people surrounding you with much love. These people are your family and friends. They will give you the support necessary and give it unconditionally. Loved ones want to celebrate who you are.
To the one doing the bullying - look at yourself in the mirror. Who do you see? Is this the person who you want to be?
These are no reasons or excuses for bad behavior. You do not have the right to treat others any less than how you treat yourself.
Maybe you became this bully because of words and actions used to discredit your true self. If so, it was inappropriate for someone to treat you this way.
Your direction and path can change for the better. There is a good possibility this person (you) is not who you want to be and I fully believe you can reverse this cycle.
You must believe you are worthy, important and loveable. You also can find someone to confide in. This someone must be trustworthy and who can help you positively. I plead that you do not continue down this negative path of bullying anymore.
I like to live by these words, "Treat others how you would like to be treated."
I believe these words can truly give peace of mind. The world would be a better place if others believed in these words too.
Kathleen Herns
Clearwater, B.C.