A Message

A message to all Jon’s peers and school students as you head back to school…

 

As you go into school this year, if you want to help remember Jon and carry his name, help by doing the right thing even if your the only one.

 

Those kids you see being pushed around on the school bus, stand up for them or tell someone. The kid who is sitting down at the cafeteria alone, join them strike up a conversation. The kids that aren’t wearing name brand clothing , don’t point at them feel compassion and know there is a reason. Maybe they don’t like that look , maybe there are struggles at home.

 

The kid that asks a lot of questions in class, don’t think of them as geeks, think of them as inquisitive.

 

You know when all of you get older you will have done some amazing things. That’s all of you. That kid that got beat up at school and pushed around for being different just may someday find the cure for cancer. The kid that sat alone in school just may be a pilot someday that safely lands a plane you are on. The kid who didn’t wear name brand clothes may be your boss.

 

Everyone has something to offer, be kind to others you never know what they are dealing with.

 

My son Jon is amazing. He did not take the easy way out. He was tormented for many years Jon fought a really hard battle for many years that most of us will never understand. Jon felt as no one liked him and was bullied daily for what others felt was being different or not cool.

 

Jon could have become a marine that may have gone on to save many lives and protect this country. Unfortunately for all of us he will never get that chance.

However for all of you, you have that chance go be amazing and help people out along the way.

 

No parent should have to go through this like we are. As parents we want the best for our kids even when you think we are just idiots. Your parents don’t want to see you suffer, if your hurting say something , if your being bullied say something.

 

For those of you that think it’s ok to bully may you read this and find some sorrow and regret. Someday you too will go on to do things however remember do you want to be remembered as the kid that bullied others or the kid that stood up for others.

Anyone can bully another human being but it takes true integrity and heroism to stand up against others.

 

Imagine a world where everyone was ok with being different.

 

Yes my Jon was different but that’s what made him special. Jon loved corny jokes, plaid, combat boots, the Red Sox the Marine corp, soccer, baseball and family and friends. You know when you read that I bet all of you had at least one thing you could relate to with Jon.

 

So as you go back to school and my Jon isn’t there if you want to honor him remember some of Jons favorite lyrics that will forever be with him in his final resting place. Always stay humble and kind.

 

I miss you baby boy like crazy does not seem possible you will not start school this year gone but not forgotten Jon I will never let people forget how amazing you are. I love you my forever 15 year old son. Fly high baby And watch over us all.