Don't Stand By, Stand Up...

Every once in a while, I get the chance to do something that lets me give back a little to the world that I love so much. My business is children and their families, capturing the joy that they share. Bullying is a violent act that takes that joy and twists it into something sour. It changes the complexion of the soul on the people it touches whether they are the recipients of the act or they are the ones perpetrating the crime. In this brave, new world of technological distance, it is even easier to target and annihilate someone for doing nothing more than breathing the same air space. And, now, you don’t even have to run the risk of seeing the pain in their eyes and just possibly feeling bad about your actions if they catch you in the act.

Some truly courageous people are tackling this issue throughout our country. In my small piece of the universe there is a young lady who I have the honor of knowing that created the ‘Don’t Stand By, Stand Up’ initiative. These are a few of the images from a rally that she held at the local Ben and Jerry’s. The people at the Ridgewood store are truly committed to helping the community and paved a place for Nina to stand. Did I mention that her name is Nina Montgomery? A quiet and charming young woman who, with her friends, is trying to change the world. I believe she can. (To see more of the rally images, head over to my Facebook page.) 

She is in the running for the Pretty Amazing Real Girl Cover contest that Seventeen Magazine is hosting. There are some pretty amazing girls in the final five but I am pulling for Nina. If she is indicative of the teenagers that this country can raise, we have hope. You can see her in action in Washington DC by clicking here. Plus, vote for her to win the cover contest by clicking here.

Nina really does fit so well on this blog, she is the image of beauty inside and out. June 18th