1 candle is light enough when all is darkness

Billy Lucas had been the target of bullying at school for years because he was 'different'. He fought it for years, but nothing changed His peers considered it common knowledge, but did nothing. The teachers and school administrators saw nothing wrong and did nothing. Unable to handle the abuse any further, Billy took matters into his own hands last Thursday. His parents found the body the next day. Billy was 15.

For as long as I can remember, I have been like Billy - 'different', the outsider, alone, the 'other'. Even today, there are many times where I feel excluded and shunned due to who I am and how God has made me. There are thousands, tens of thousands of us who grew up like Billy, who live in a world like his. What strikes me is this:

His society, the students and teachers and administrators, saw what was happening and did nothing. They turned their backs on him when help was needed. They, by omission, have his blood on their hands. If only one person had spoken up, one person stood up for what is right...then perhaps the story would have ended differently.

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves;
ensure justice for those being crushed.
Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless,
and see that they get justice.” (Proverbs 31:8-9)



For Billy, may he find the infinite mercy and forgiveness of our Lord.
For his parents, may they find the comfort and solace of our Lord's compassion.
For the community, may their consciences be pricked
For those of us like Billy, may they know that we are NOT alone.
For all of us, let us be a voice for the voiceless.

For this, I pray.