In addition to October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is also National Bullying Prevention Month. Having been subjected to a few cruel words myself over the years (sadly, who hasn’t?), this story about CBS WKBT news anchor Jennifer Livingston resonated with me. After delivering the Wisconsin morning news yesterday, Jennifer took a short break to address a rude, hurtful email criticizing her appearance, sent from a viewer. An excerpt of the email is below:
“Hi Jennifer, It’s unusual that I see your morning show, but I did so for a very short time today. I was surprised indeed to witness that your physical condition hasn’t improved for many years. Surely you don’t consider yourself a suitable example for this community’s young people, girls in particular. Obesity is one of the worst choices a person can make and one of the most dangerous habits to maintain. I leave you this note hoping that you’ll reconsider your responsibility as a local public personality to present and promote a healthy lifestyle.”
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Jennifer Livingston demonstrated incredible courage sharing those words on air; her eloquent response (the YouTube video with over 1.8M views is below) has garnered international attention with support from celebs like Ellen DeGeneres. Please watch the video and share this post in honor of National Bullying Prevention Month. Jennifer Livingston is a role model: she is a successful, career woman with the confidence to stand up to those trying to tear her down.
CBS WKBT’s Jennifer Livingston Responds to Bullying Video
What do you think of Jennifer’s response to her bully? Discuss in the comments or tweet me @lorenridinger
