October is National Bullying Prevention Month. Today, the sad reality is bullying isn't growing just in schools, but it's happening all over no matter what age you are, especially over the internet. It's sad and what's even worse is that not only are our future leaders setting poor examples, but so many of us are choosing to bully others based on their political beliefs or who they are voting for. The election is bringing out the worst of America and it needs to stop.

How can we expect the children of our country to learn the importance of respect and kindness if we as adults can't even show them? It's time to start making changes.

You don't know what someone is going through or how being bullied may affect their life. The internet is one of the biggest contributors to bullying today, otherwise known as cyber-bullying. People can hide behind their computer or phone and think they can say what they want. News outlets are posting stories that are just asking for negative comments and the sad part is people actually do. People argue on Facebook status' or comment negative things Instagram posts.

For example; Bachelorette Kaitlyn Bristowe posted an Instagram to shed awareness on domestic violence but instead of thinking about the meaning behind the post or taking a stand with her, people started to bully Kaitlyn on her appearance. Just because she is a celebrity doesn't mean she doesn't read those comments or care and the sad part is, Kaitlyn is just one of the celebrities dealing with cyber-bullying.

It is never okay to be a bully.

Did you know victims of cyber-bullying can have depression, anxiety, loss of appetite, health problems, and decreased academic performance? Because the person is shielded by their anonymous identity, or behind a computer, cyber-bullying can be particularly hurtful. Scary fact: 20% of kids cyber-bullied think about suicide, and 1 in 10 attempt it.

Give a compliment to someone instead of demeaning them. Don't like what someone has to say? Take the high road and be silent instead of sinking to their level. Do a random act of kindness for no reason. Be kind to those being bullied and show them that they are not alone. Teach your children to love instead of hate.

I challenge everyone to think about how their actions and choices are affecting those surrounding them. Is there someone in your life who could use a pick me up? Do you have an extra $4 to buy the coffee for the person in line behind you? Do you have five seconds to give someone a compliment? Will it hurt to spend an extra minute to hold the door open for someone? See someone being cyber-bullied and comment something nice, stand up for the victim, or report the photo.

You will never regret being kind. Be the bigger person, make someone smile, lend a hand, be a friend. Each and every one of us has the power to set examples. We have the power to change someone's life. We can choose kindness.