Caroline has a kind heart in the truest sense. She makes a point of introducing herself to people who look like they can use a friend: people who sit alone at lunch, who everyone makes fun of, who won’t make eye contact. She doesn’t look at people and see how we are different, instead she sees how we are alike.
She is compassionate, empathetic, and fearless; especially in her convictions and desire to help those experiencing bullying or loneliness. Caroline goes out of her way, all the time, to make people that are having a hard time feel noticed and validated. In spite of this, and perhaps because of it, Caroline has experienced bullying herself.
Caroline signed up to share her bullying experience in a film produced by David’s Legacy last year. Unfortunately, and predictably, she was the only one who signed up so the project was cancelled. She was very disappointed because she thought if she could share her experience it might help someone else.
She would like to inspire more people at her school to be more kind, but many are unwilling to take the risk for fear of losing social status or because of their own teenage insecurities. There are programs in place that raise awareness but sometimes those can put more of a spotlight on bullied individuals, and not in a good way. She realizes this and through her involvement in these groups has made some productive changes. She works daily to promote a culture of inclusiveness.
Recently, a boy at her school said that Caroline talked him out of a deep depression and that her kindness meant so much to him. There have been many other instances like this of people seeking her advice and solace. If she helps just one person in this way, that would be fantastic; but she strives to help so many more.
She is generous with her greetings and genuine in her compliments. She wants to hear the story, she wants to give advice, and she wants to be there for and hopefully lift up people who are hurting. She has decided that she wants to and can make a difference in others’ lives.