Young people today are subject to a host of challenges unheard of in years past - bullying, cyberbullying, substance abuse, violent behavior and adolescent suicide. A revealing article from the Journal of Youth and Adolescence recently explored the web of relationships between these subjects. The challenges faced by many young people is alarming, but what could be said to be even more worrisome is the age at which youth are now subjected to these challenges.
Technology plays a major role in bullying today. Cyberbullying can now take place round the clock, 24/7 via social media. Bullying and depression play major roles in adolescent suicide, something we heard very little about in generations past.
Cheryl Williams was a victim of bullying in the past and has first hand experience with the effects of bullying. Today she is the award winning author of 'A Collection Of Poems: A Journey Through Life'. She offers first-hand insight, some rock-solid advice and ultimately hope through her poetry and a new video recently posted to Youtube.
"Bullying and cyberbullying often result in depression, self harm, and in some cases suicide," Williams stated.
"Some of us have experienced the horrifying effects first hand, While others have empathized with so many who have lost loved ones as a result of suicide due to relentless bullying.
"My poem 'Direction' is addressed to anyone who is hurting as a result of bullying, anyone who might be contemplating suicide."
Direction
When you feel like you have lost your way
When confusion seems to be the norm of the day
You must remain focused and never lose sight
Of the many reasons why you are alive
Though hardships and disappointments may abound
And a smile you replace with a frown
Look for the glimmer of hope in the darkness
Even when the nights seem cold and hopeless
More is available at Williams' website at https://cherylhot6.wixsite.com/cherylpwilliams.
Williams has also created a powerful video on the subject of bullying, now available on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_TWJYCE1Bc. In that video, she vividly addresses the sad reality of bullying, the sore that eats away at the core of our society, destroying our self esteem and purpose for living.
Cheryl urges adolescents and anyone experiencing this behavior to say something. Suicide should never be an option. Every life matters!
Williams was named Top Female Author in the 2019 Top Female Author Awards in the poetry category. The win came as the result of her most recent book, 'A Collection Of Poems: A Journey Through Life'. Williams was chosen from a field of hundreds of authors by a panel of judges.
Writing has helped Williams connect with her inner self, finding positive ways to cope with life's struggles. She has been writing and singing for as long as she can remember.
Throughout her childhood she sang in both the church and school choir, and also enjoyed singing at talent shows and music festivals. As an adult she also participated in concerts, performing as a solo artist.
Music and writing are the tools that bring her fulfillment and healing. Her book, 'A Collection Of Poems', takes us through the power of the human mind, good or bad, and its impact on one's direction and journey through life.
With the help of music, writing, and positive thinking, Williams found hope and purpose in life. Life isn't fair. It is unpredictable, bad things happen to good people, and we never know what tomorrow holds. Cheryl wants her readers to realize that even when faced with insurmountable, hopeless situations, even when life seems dark and uncertain, we should never let go of hope and appreciate the beauty and blessings that life has to offer, making the most of every day, loving, living, laughing, and learning. Seasons change, and there is always a rainbow after the storms of life.
Cheryl Williams is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at cherylw27@aol.com. 'A Collection Of Poems: A Journey Through Life' is available at Amazon. More information, including a number of videos and a collection of music, is available at her website at https://cherylhot6.wixsite.com/cherylpwilliams.
About Cheryl Williams:
Cheryl Williams is a wife, mother, author, and nurse by profession, with a passion for the Arts.
Her love for poetry started at the tender age of five when she recited the poem "Grandfather Frog” for a school function. Six years later, her world was turned upside down after her mother suffered a massive stroke.
During those uncertain times, music, writing, and poetry helped her cope.
As a teenager, whenever she wasn’t caring for her mother, Cheryl spent her free time writing and directing short plays as a form of entertainment for the children in her neighborhood.
She enjoyed singing in the church and school choir, while also performing publicly as a soloist in concerts and talent shows. As a result of her mother’s illness and her responsibility to help care for her, Cheryl was inspired to pursue nursing as a way to help others heal; the same way writing and music helped her find a path to healing. She resides in New York.
Contact:
Cheryl Williams
cherylw27@aol.com
https://cherylhot6.wixsite.com/cherylpwilliams
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