This week I was shook to my core with news of a 12 year old boy who took his own life due to bullying. I don’t know this family personally, but as I read their story I couldn’t help but feel deep sorrow for everyone in his life who would do anything to bring him back. There is nothing we can do to bring back to his parents, But I believe it to be imperative that we do everything we can to never let it happen again.

Yesterday I had a little road trip with Reid and JJ to watch Reid play in a basketball tournament. On our way home I turned down the radio and took the opportunity to 1- express my love for them and 2- talk about ways we can help others feel our love. 

I wanted to share three things that we talked about on our drive. 

1- We are all different for a reason. God created all of his children with differences in image, characteristics, challenges, and abilities. The one thing we all have in common is that He created us all equal and in his image. The way others dress, talk, comb their hair etc. has nothing to do with how we should treat others. Always look for the commonalities you can share and embrace the differences you have. You will be surprised with how much you can learn from others who at first glance might look “different” than you. 

2- People will rarely if ever remember the material things you had or the clothes you wore, but will always remember how you made them feel. I told Reid and JJ that they literally have the ability to change someone’s life for the better every single day. Kelsi often recounts the story of her in grade school when her life long friend Jessica came up to her in their class room and asked “do you want to be my best friend?” They’ve been friends ever since. Reach out to others, keep your eyes open and look for ways to help others. Don’t be shy, stand out. The more you practice outward kindness the easier it will become. Confession- I’m so shy and this is still a huge challenge for me. But it’s something I recognize and am working towards.

3- Bullying shows weakness, Kindness shows strength.  Bully’s are cowards. They hide behind their mean comments and actions, hoping that it will make their imperfections show up less. Kindness demonstrates self love, self worth, and requires real strength. Choose to be kind. Love yourself so that you can give love to others. 

With that being said. We all mess up. And will continue to mess up. We can all do better. And need to do better. I want to challenge anyone who reads this to look for someone in need. And if that person is you, find the strength to get help. Self harm is never the answer. If you feel alone, know God is with you. If you need someone to reach out to. Reach out to me. The world needs our love now more than ever. Speaking of love…. Valentine’s Day is tomorrow, wink wink. Have a Smoooooooth week everyone.

Love, 

Cabe