February 14, 2018 was just another ordinary day. It was Valentine's Day, mid-week. Just another day for kids all over the world, but not for the students of Marjory Stoneman Douglas; for them it started off as a regular school day, kids exchanging Valentine's Day gifts, waiting for the long 3 day weekend. No one expected what happened next – no one – not parents, students or teachers expected for the shooting to happen.

Parents did not send their kids off to school and expecting for them to come home in body bags, but that is the reality of what happened. In the following days after the shooting social media, news stations, and everyone did what they could do, trying to deal with what happened.

The strongest people to come out of this were the students. No better word can describe these students other than "survivor."

They faced what most of us have never experienced, their lives drastically changed. Seventeen individuals lost their lives, 14 students, and three staff members who risked their lives for the students.

Through all of this, burials, and the fear of what would happen next, a new group of student activists appeared. The survivors of this atrocity decided enough is enough.

Across the U.S, students decided it was time for action. These young men and women, who should not have to live in fear for their safety, decided if the politicians are not going to bring change, they would.

So what would a bunch of teenagers do? They used their voices.

In the wake of a horrible event, they saw change was needed.

So to all student activists from Stoneman Douglas and those students nationwide, thank you.

Thank you for bringing about change.

Thank you for not backing down and not letting others tell you your grief isn't real.

You didn't fail. The politicians around you failed. And if they continue to fail you, they will no longer be in office.

Keep doing what you are doing, keep fighting for your right to live. Do not back down. We are standing by your side – with support and love.