There have been an increasing number of stories in the news about students turning to suicide because of being bullied.
Ben Scharding was the most brilliant human I’ve ever met. He was a genius, but often his fellow classmates only saw him as “different.” On the morning of December 2nd, 2008, Ben laid down on the train tracks behind his house. I often wonder if I, or anyone, could have said something to him prior to his death that would have kept him alive.
I am an advocate for using our Freedom of Speech in a positive way, to brighten people’s lives, and assure them that there are better days ahead. Rest in Peace, Ben.