[Update:] This story has taken the most 2017 turn. Wake me when it stops being 2017, which I’m starting to suspect may just be never, despite what the calendar reads.
[Original story:] Over the weekend, a heartbreaking video made the rounds on the internet, in which a young boy tearfully asked why bullies do what they do. While there are countless other kids out there going through the same difficulties, his message struck a chord and resulted in an uplifting chorus of support.
The video was originally posted by Kimberly Jones on her Facebook page, where she said that her son asked to record it just after she picked him up from school in Tennessee, because he was too afraid to go to lunch. In it, he details the things the other kids do to him at lunch, including pouring milk on him and stuffing lunchmeat in his clothes, and asks,
“Just out of curiosity, why do they bully? What’s the point of it? Why do they find joy in taking innocent people and find a way to be mean to them? It’s not OK.
“People that are different don’t need to be criticized about it. It’s not their fault. If you are made fun of, just don’t let it bother you.”
By Sunday, he’d received a flood of support, including all kinds of celebrity assurances that things will get better. Mark Ruffalo tweeted that he, too, was bullied as a kid, and Chris Evans extended an invite to the premiere of Avengers: Infinity War that it looks like he’s going to take up!
Little buddy, I was bullied when I was a kid. You are right #ItGetsBetter! You are my own personal super hero. Protect Yo Heart. You got a pal in the Hulk. https://t.co/fRTAENcmV4
— Mark Ruffalo (@MarkRuffalo) December 10, 2017
Stay strong, Keaton. Don’t let them make you turn cold. I promise it gets better. While those punks at your school are deciding what kind of people they want to be in this world, how would you and your mom like to come to the Avengers premiere in LA next year? https://t.co/s1QwCQ3toi
— Chris Evans (@ChrisEvans) December 10, 2017
Mark Hammill provided the necessary answer to his question about bullies’ motivation:
Keaton-Don’t waste time wondering why a bully would be so mean-They’re sad people who think hurting others will make them feel better because they really don’t like themselves-They’re just jealous because you’re so smart & handsome❤️Your friend-mh https://t.co/SUMw3OoCTm
— @HamillHimself (@HamillHimself) December 10, 2017
And University of Tennessee quarterback Jarrett Guarantano showed up in person to provide some much-needed friendship.
So I got the chance to spend the day with my new best bud Keaton. It was unbelievable to get to know him and realize that we have a lot in common. This dude is very special and has changed my life forever. Now I have the little brother I always wanted! God bless you my man pic.twitter.com/vMHVtnf2rC
— Jarrett Guarantano✞ (@BroadwayJay2) December 11, 2017
Many more voiced support, from Millie Bobby Brown and Gal Gadot to Terry Crews.
Different is special. You’re beautiful Keaton. Inside and out. #IStandWithKeaton https://t.co/I7jTVF3izn
— Gal Gadot (@GalGadot) December 11, 2017
His family is touched by the “overwhelming” response, with both his mother and sister saying they’re having trouble just keeping up with all the messages of support.
(via The Guardian, featured image: Marvel Entertainment)
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