Silent Strength Kindness

(Because we are SO appreciative of the support, we have tried to save every single comment that we’ve ever received since the creation of Chris’ Silent-Strength Program in 2012.  If you would like to leave a comment, then there is a Message Box at the bottom of this page.  Though there will be a slight delay before they will appear, all new comments will appear at the top of this page in the order that they come to us.  WE CAN’T POSSIBLY THANK YOU ENOUGH FOR ALL OF THE SUPPORT!)
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I thought that your lecture was very inspiring.

-Ryder
Wea Ridge Middle School 🙂

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I really appreciate the program coming to Wea Wridge MIddle School, I think you touched a lot of peoples hearts during the program. And I hope to see a lot more students embrace the mental and physical challenges that they have, and not be ashamed of them.

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Thank you Doug (and Chris) for telling me and my school about silent-strength. I was the one who told you my mom passed away from a brain tumour 3 years ago, you inspired me to always go for your first instinct of kindness. I will always be kind just like Chris and my mother. You were the best speaker I have ever heard and I would like to thank you!
– Alyssa ( A student)
(Sunnyvale middle school)

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Usually I think of bully’s as mean people.But after this presentation me as a 6th grader realized some people are nice and Doug was a great role model and has encouraged me to become a better person!

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Hey this is one of the kids from pleasant grove elementary school I’m in the fourth grade and I had on a blue outfit with white on it you were a great talker for us and I’ve never heard a story like yours I want you to thank you!
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Your story touched all of us at J Sam Gentry Middle School and I just wanted to
thank you for taking the time to share your story with us. God Bless you and your family!
-Anna Escobar, a student at GMS
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I would like
to say thank you for coming to Harrison Community schools. You sharing
your brothers story helped me realize that almost all my friends are
like the ones who bullied luther .
Thanks for sharing something you never had to share.Thank you for
coming to our school, we all loved you. I wish i could have meet
Chris, because you speaking of him helped me think of all the people i
have just watched being bullied. It made me also realize i need to
stick with people who lead in kindness not rudeness.
It is AMAZING seeing people like luther and chris happy. I loved
listening to you speak on this day (3-19-19). You showed me that you
can change from thinking one thing, To thinking something else
positive.
I would also like to say thank you to your mom and dad for taking
care of chris because if they didn’t he wouldn’t have a story for
you to tell us, so thank you to them. I’m glad chris had a loving
family that cared about him, and loved him 24/7.
Also thank you to your kids for helping you to use social media so
we could join on the positive life. thank you so much.

Sincerely,
Brittany Hansen
Harrison Middle School Michigan
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i love your story that story made me happy god bless you.
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i am sorry to hear about your brother chris, doug but the story you told today about
chris was really powerful.

a 6th from gentry middle school
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Thanks for coming to J Sam Gentry Middle School today. Your story has left a HUGE impact on our school. Thanks again.😍😍😍😍
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the story doug told today at my school ( gentry middle school) was really
sad,happy,abit funny,and yet really powerful to me and maybe other
students in 6th,7th, and 8th grade, and chris sounded like a nice and
lovably he also sounded really happy including at his birthday.

brooklyn draughn,11
6th grade
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Doug,
Today you came to Gentry Middle School and I would like to thank you
for sharing your story with us. Your story about Luther was really
touching and it was really touching. Your visit will make and impact
on me and I will always remember it forever. It left a huge impact on
our school. Thank you again for coming to our school.

Sincerely, Lilli
J Sam Gentry Middle School
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God bless Chris and you family!! Thank you so much for coming to our school and presenting you heart warming presentation!!!
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kaysen turley
gentry middle school 12 years old
Bless you and your family.
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i was at your
assembly at harrison middle school i would like you to know that you are the reason good people stay good people and bad people become good
and it is ok to be sad and proud of him just remember be a good person 😀
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they went to my
school very cool
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i really loved the assembly that you gave us i was really moved by what you shared with us and i’m happy you did but i thought that cris didn’t look different but he was different and that’s what i love about people, is their differences, our differences is what makes us who we are
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Hello,
I took so much from Chris’s story today. Thanks for coming in our
school and telling us. His story is so inspiring and I can’t even
put into words how much this opened my eyes to. There was this one
girl who was hateful and awful and hated everyone around her but after
this program she just smiled and I could tell how much she felt
inspired to become a better more kind person looking in the mirror
today because that girl was me. I hope that even when we are long
gone Chris’s story will remain and help inspire people to be better
and more kind. Thank you again for coming in our school today
Chris’s story really changed me.

Hillsville, Va
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Chris’s brother
came today to our school ccms and told us about his beloved brother
and i thought life’s a garden dig it and just wanted to say sorry for
your loss and at our school we have a person like Luther named Jacob
and he’s my friend.
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“Kinder than is
necessary. Because it’s not enough to be kind. One should be kinder
than needed. “
The things we do outlast our mortality. The things we do are like
monuments that people build to honor heroes after they’ve died.
They’re like the pyramids that the Egyptians built to honor the
pharaohs. Only instead of being made of stone, they’re made out of
the memories people have of you.”
-R.J. Palacio.
Chris has given me something to remember, choose kind, thank you for sharing your story at Hale Middle School.
-Hale Student
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Your speech yesterday was so empowering for me.
Sincerely,
Andrew Sisk
Maryville, TN
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The story you told really made me happy, it made me think twice about everything. You are officially one of my idols. Thank you for coming to Union Grove Middle School.

Jayden, 11
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Thank you guys for sharing you kind and gentle memories with us

Kody,12
WI
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This was a very
inspirational and I love that your mom and dad took care of him for a
long time. This was sweet and nice and you being so kind to Luther
warmed my heart.
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Doug, Thank you
for coming to our middle school i was the second person to come to. my
name is Jake Im glad you told us your story tank you so much.

jake,12
NJ
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Hi, My name
is Torie! You came to my school (Woodland Middle School. Barrington
NJ) Today (2/19/19). I really enjoyed listening to you tell us about
you and your childhood, and your little brother. I really hope people
will learn something from what you told us today! I think everybody
should be more like you and your friend Kenny. Being kind to Luther,
might of changed his life. So many people should think to themselves,
I wish I could be more like Chris! I hope you keep going to different
schools, and encouraging more and more students to be like Chris.
From, Torie
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Dear Doug and
family,
I was the first student to come up to you at Woodland Middle School in
New Jersey. My name is Mason and I am so happy that you decided to
share your amazing story. It had a big impact on me. Thank you once
again for coming to our school.

From,
Mason 12, NJ
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I am from woodland middle school. Loved it so much you teached me so much. I
learned to be kind and treat others the way you want to be treated.
Well i hope you read. You should keep on doing what you are doing.
😃😂😁
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My name is
Olivia, and you visited my school today, Feb 19. My mother Heather,
works with special need students so i could understand everything you
said. She works with students that go to crisis. They way you
explained your life caught my eye. You are very good at your job.I
could connect with every word you said, and you made me cry.
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My daughter was very touched by your presentation at Hampton yesterday. She has been talking about it a lot and sat with me to show me your website and tell me your story. Thank you for making a difference in these kids’ lives.
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My uncle who passed away at 28 had mcad deficiency, which prevented him from eating. Also he was born without a piece of his brain, like chris,
which led to blindness, loss of speech, and loss of any physical
activity. However, when I was sad, I would just go back to his room
and talk to him. Even though he was blind, he still smiled. My pappy
always told me that JR is like an angel all the time, because he has
never done anything wrong and that I should look up to him. I always
saw my uncle as the perfect human being although he had these
disabilities. I really enjoyed hearing about Chris’s story, because
it was so similar to my uncle’s. Thank you so much for coming to
Hampton!
-7th grade student
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Today you came to our school in Hampton PA, and I just want to say, this was the most motivating, inspirational, and touching assembly we have ever had in the three years I have been here. That’s saying a lot seen that we have so many every year!
You didn’t “talk down” to us like any other speaker, but you told
us a story from a perspective of someone who knows they aren’t
perfect. Stay strong.
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thank you for
coming to hampton! we loved your speech and we were happy to see
you.
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This story recently came to our school and it was one of the best stories ever
and lots of my classmates agreed that this was great and we were all
really happy here in Lancaster! Please keep this up and share Silent-Strength with lots of other kids!
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thank you for coming to Lancaster Middle School and sharing the story of Chris with us
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thanks so much for coming to Lancaster Middle School. I appreciate it so much!
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Just yesterday Doug came to my school Lancaster middle school and he came to tell us
about Chris and him and it was so sad, inspiring and happy. And please come next year!!!!:)
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thank you for coming to my school
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I am sorry for your loss but I thank you for sharing Chris’ story with us. My
friends and I loved your story
– Ethan Boothe Wallace Middle School
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You have inspired
me so much i so embarresd to say this but i used to bully my best freined her name is tatum whinny but i spoke to her and she forgave me
i’m so glad to have my best friend back thank you you gave me back my best friend cris is and was a good person we have alot of kindness
hearts now hope you can come to our school soon ORE Overton Ray Elementery
-myrie bentley hope you read and cris was in the room with us at that moment and he loves you!
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Doug,
I go to E.B. Stanley Middle. What your presentation did was change my life. I am dog gone embarrassed to say that I pick on my little
sister. I used to call her names and laugh at her. Then you came. I heard what you had to say and soaked up every word like a sponge. I
went home and apologized to her. I never thought she would say no problem, but she did. You have inspired me in way you can’t imagine.
Also, Chris was in the room that day.He was sitting right beside you the whole time, grinning ear to ear with love for his brother.
-Layla Ball
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Doug,
Thanks for coming to my school today i think u really helped some of my classmates
Skyler D
6th grade WMS
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i know how it
feels i had a sister who was like Chris.
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Doug,
I was literally in tears.Thank you so much for coming to our school. A lot of kids have a problem being nice to others and I think you sort
of fixed that. so thanks again.

Kailee Massengill
Wallace Middle School
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Greatest guest speaker i have ever seen. Thank you for coming to
THS
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hi Mr. Reavis i
saw you speak at Virginia Middle School (my school)
i loved the story i am willing to take the silent strength challenge
also my favorite part in the story was when you gave the shirt to that
boy and he sang”LADY” it was sad and funny im sorry for the death of
chris #christhelegend thanks
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Thank you for the
message at sjes it was amazing keep it up
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Having been placed in moments where I felt like no one would listen to me, it is a
great joy and spirit lifter to have someone who doesn’t know what
you’ve been through, someone who doesn’t care, it just makes you
feel better. It makes you feel wanted and needed in your times of
absolute darkness. I’ve been in several dark times where I only
prayed to have someone listen to me, for those who are in trouble,
there’s always someone who will listen to
you.
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Hi! It’s Lyss from Virginia High. Your speech was amazing and Inspiring. Thank you for sharing your brother’s story!
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have a good day
everone and everday
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Dear Mr.Revis
You came to my school (Shawsville Middle School) last year and i wanted to thank you again, it really changed my life. Please keep telling chris’s story
-Hope Bryant
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Doug,

I am from the Northwestern Lehigh Middle School. After you gave us
that speech about Chris, and how he was always positive, despite his
condition, really made me think and reflect on people that I’ve
met/encountered throughout my life.

I cannot thank you enough for coming to our school to share that
story. I was touched by the message it was sending, “That my good
actions speak louder than my words”. I hope you are doing well, and
never forget how much Chris, and everyone else loves you for what you
do best.

Thank you so much and have a great day, everyday.

Sincerely, Miriya F.
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To doug
u made me cry laughing when u did th story on luther and it was sooo freaken funny when he sang lady and only said lady #so funny

a 6th grader at suphur
springs middle school (lexie logan)
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hi im lexie logan from sulphur spring middle school. And one of my friens moved
away and all of Mrs. mcclures 4th and 5th period class miss Alyza corkill. She was always lovable and if she ever comes across this we
miss u alyza!!!!!!!

-Lexie Logan
Addie jones Emmerson thompson Daylon Bell alma abrego rubi salazar
WEMISSS ALYZA CORKILL.
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Hi. I am from
LCMS and my name is Meika. I am glad that you came to our school. You
do very important things for people. When I told my sister about you
she was excited about this organization. Now whenever she has a bad
say, she will read a couple of comment on this website and she will
feel better. Thank you.
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thank you so much for telling our school the story of you brother I hope that it changes
the way people act to other kids and I hope that the chose kind much more then they chose to be mean to others. No act of kindness no
matter how small or how big you are you should ALWAYS treat others the way you want to treated

jaden allen
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Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.so be kind.Thank you for telling your story.
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I am from burkburnett middle school and this speech made me cry 2 times. It made me learn many things and it made me think about to not always be mean to others
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No act of kindness,no matter how small,is never ever wasted,from sulphur springs middle school ,from a 6th grader.
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Thank you
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9/11/2018

Thank you so much for sharing Chris’s story. I know it must have been hard for you to tell this story in front of everyone. It was very inspiring and I will never forget it. It didn’t matter who you were, Chris was always kind. That’s true kindness. I will always
keep this bracelet as reminder to be kind to everyone.

Inspired Student
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Thank you so much
for coming to LCMS! I enjoy hearing what has happened to others so I
don’t only learn from my mistakes, but other’s mistakes as well!

All of LCMS loves you and we hope to hear from Silent-Strength next
year as well! We love you!
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Thank you for sharing your story at Lost mountain it moved me and made me think more about how I was being to people thank you.
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Thank you so, so much for coming to Lost Mountain Middle today. Your story was so amazing, it moved me. I will always remember your story and I’m going to try and take up the pledge that you created. Thank you, on behave of my whole 7th grade.
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Thank you so much
for coming out to my school today. Your story was really inspiring. I
am going to do the silent strength pledge every day. I will also wear
the bracelet everyday in memory of Chris.

Kendall

LMMS
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Thank you Doug
for coming and speaking to our school. The story impacted me and so
many others. Chris’s story is absolutely amazing. He showed kindness
to many and I just wish I could’ve met him. Keep sharing his story
cause many should here it. I hope this story is spread so much
more.
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Thank you so much
for visiting LMMS again. As an 8th grader, I have been blessed with
being able to hear you twice. I know that Chris is looking down on you
from Heaven and smiling because his brother is making the world a
better place. I pray that our school is changed and that Jesus is with
you while you travel. After losing a student at our school to suicide,
I think your message was just what we needed to hear. Continue
spreading this amazing story and let the world know what Chris has
done. ♥
– A.C.
Lost Mountain Middle School
Kennesaw, GA
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Hey i love this story.
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Thank you for
sharing your story, hearing you talk about Chris and your journey has
definitely changed me for the better. Thank you so much!!!! I also
love the YouUplift website I sent a message to someone at my school
and I can tell a difference everyday when she comes to
school!
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Thank you for
come by to my school and inspiring me and changing the way I treat
others
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Today You came to
my school i was
very moved To were me and my friend
alomst cried By your story and how you
came just to Talk to my school
Davenport , IA
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Hi Mr. Reavis,
I wanted to speak about how grateful I was to hear Chris’ story today. It moved me to a great extent. After listening I knew I wanted to be apart of the Special Needs Mentor Program once again. I used to in 5th grade, but by the time I got to middle school. I noticed the same thing you noticed. Lots of people judged me for helping out with these kids. So I quit. Today made me realize just how much I would have loved to be the kind of person to accept Chris’ hugs on your couch again. Just how much I missed being in such a kind and positive enviornment. Thank you once again! -Aaliyah
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Your message at CSMS really warmed my heart, and sharing your and Chris’s story really inspired me to try to help and lift up others. Chris was truly a blessing and I am so sorry about his passing, but I hope that you continue to travel and tell everyone of all ages about Chris and you, and that the message will spread rapidly. What you shared with us today is something that everyone needs to hear, and I am so glad that I was apart of it.
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today you came to speak at my school, i would like to thank you for that. i’m not normally a bully but i know sometimes i follow the crowd in my actions, such as running away from people and mocking them. But today you made me realize that’s not who i am, and that i can be kind to everyone. Today i pledge that my action will speak louder then all my word, but not just today everyday.
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Thank you so much for coming to our school! This has really impacted how i want to change and really think about how and what i say to people. Chris’s story was so impactful and he truly is a hero. Thank you-CSMS Student
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Hello sir, you have inspired me more than I think anyone could ever. I’ve never been a nice girl and that’s sad I’m in 8th grade and I really should probably grow up but I pick on a couple kids and after you shared we went straight to lunch and I invited them over to my table and we laughed and I found out there amazing kids and I’m happy to say I’m going to be taking that pledge. Chris will forever be in my heart I’m sorry you don’t get to have anymore amazing days with him, I wish I could have said this to your face but I’m honestly really shy and didn’t know how you would interpret it my names kristen thompson from CSMS and I hope you have a nice day💕
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Thank you for coming to Carolina Springs Middle, the presentation was very touching and it was very enjoyable! Everyone was glad to hear about your story and couldn’t stop talking about it.
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I am sorry for your loss but thank you for sharing
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Thank you for coming to our school and sharing about your brother Chris. When you were talking about Chris I was thinking about my cousin Hayden in Alabama. He cant walk, talk, or eat by himself and when we are in Alabama I usually help out with him. I am going to think twice instead of saying my day is bad and I am going to think about Chris and Hayden. I hope you have an amazing day. Thank you again for coming!!!
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I loved your story u shared I soon hope that I can grow up to be like I and Chris friendly,caring,thoughtful, and stick up for what is write.thank u for sharing your story
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Hi I’m a student at Jonesville Middle School and “silent strength” had come there to tell us the story about Chris and how uplifting and nice he is and I know someone else at my school that is exactly like him, Nathan Hughes. He is the sweetest person ever and we all are so glad he’s apart of our group, he’s smart, loving, and just lives life right in general. We all love him and I just wanted to tell you about him.
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Thank you for coming to our school it was an amazing presentation and it made me change the way I think about people words you say can change a person life forever in a good way and a bad way.
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I’m really happy you came to our school. Some kids don’t have lives like ours, but it still doesn’t give you the right to bully them. Hope everyone has a good day!
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People don’t need to bully because of the way someone lives
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Mr. Doug,
I hope you read this but thank you. I had tears in my eyes from your story. Luther must be really proud of how you are uplifting everyone’s spirits. I hope you felt welcome at booth everyone enjoyed having you. I am planing to wear the Silent Strength wrist band everyday of my life because of the positive impact you and Chris had. I wish you would come to booth again because it was a pleasure having you there.
Thank You,
Ayaan Jiwani
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Thank you for coming and speaking to our school today. It really opened my eyes and has given me a reason to be nicer. Thank you. –
8th Grade J.C. Booth
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Mr. Mike you did a great job today a booth middle school. Chris’s story is amazing, you and Chris both make me better. I’m going to write a note on my room door to do the pledge. You are blessing to me and everyone else. You’re speech really touched me. God bless you and your family, and friends.You made my day.

-Random 6th grader at booth middle school
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SUCH A NICE STORY
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Thank you for coming to our school, J.C. Booth Middle School, today. I am so
grateful for the people like Chris. Thank you for coming to my school.
I will never forget you and your family.

Thanks,
Matthew
1/11/2018
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Mr. Mike, I don’t know how you did it, but you tears in the eyes of every single person at my school because of your beautiful story. You are a very strong and kind person, and I’m absolutely positive that Karen, Luther, and most of all, Chris are very proud of you. I can’t express how grateful I am that you came to my school. I’m truly sorry about the loss of Chris, but I’d bet the world that he’s standing right next to you, all better and singing with the angels. God bless you and have a wonderful day. Much love, Brooke
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Thank you so much for coming to Booth Middle School today. Your story was really amazing and it is very motivational. Your doing a very nice thing . I hope that you keep it up. Like I said thank you so much. You definitely made my day.
Amira
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To whoever reads this- Thank you so much for coming to my school today. My friends and I teared up at your wonderful and inspiring story. I got the message to always be kind to everyone no matter how they look or how they are. Thank you so much and tell your strong and amazing family I said Hi!
From a 6th grader at Booth Middle School
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Hi this is Alex. You came to J.C Booth and the speech didn’t only inspire me but reminded me of one of my family members who has a hard time speaking. This speech kept me engaged almost the whole time even though I was late for it. I almost even cried during it because of the beautiful speech. One of my close friends is disabled too. Ever sense birth she is only able to use her left arm. Her right arm got pulled out of the socket so it looks weird and this story reminded me of her. I will definitely be sharing the story with some of my friends who didn’t get to hear the speech and hopefully it will make them try to be kind to others even more then usual.
(Alex from J.C Booth Middle School)
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This is such an amazing story!
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Thank you for coming to our school and sharing you’re tough but uplifting story of your brother. I know it took a lot of courage to openly share your feelings and thoughts and for that I thank you. You have opened my eyes on how to treat others and in the future it will help me help and treat others right.
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Chris sounded like a very kind person. :)) -Tate Morris
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Chis seemed awesome:))
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You have changed my life. Keep being as strong as you are. Thank you so much
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You had an amazing story to tell and it was very inspiring! If you see luther again please tell him he is wonderful and dont let anyone say he’s not!!
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I want to thank the guest speaker that we had today. He was very nice and he had a great story.
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Today when you came to REMS I was touched by Chris’ story.Not only did it touch me but it also tuched my friends we all started crying and I knew that even though ive never meet Chris I know he was a gift from God. I believe that he was an angel.I will never EVER forget him. Thank you and God Bless!!!!!!!!!!
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Hey this is someone from REMS (Riverview Elementary and Middle School) Thank you for sharing to us 9/15/2017
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Love the story, thank you.
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My name is Carlie Apple from LCMS and I your speech really touched me and I’m so happy I got to hear you story and I’m the one who cried and gave you a huge and I’ve tried to stick to saying and it’s really hard but I’m going to do it for a long time so I just wanted to thank you again
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You really touched my heart when you can to my school to talk about Chris and I know I never met him before but I will never ever forget him
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Your story really touched my heart when you came to Louisa county High School and I just want to say that gave me someone to look up to and I know I never met Chris but I will never forget him ever
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As an 8th grader at Louisa County, your speech was truly heartwarming and changed many people’s ways. God bless you.
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Thank you for sharing your story about your brother chris and your friend Luther it was really inspiring and it touched my heart and it made me cry and I wanna say thank you again for sharing you story
From: Reannah wood
7th grade at lcms
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Hi, you came to my school the other day. I wanted to thank you for the wonderful presentation. I have decided to take the pledge for the day and see what happens. You presentation and the meaning behind it makes me want to be a better person. Thank you once again for the wonderful presentation.
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My name is Haley Walker a 7th grader from LCMS. Kris has inspired me so much and the speech about him was very touching. This makes me want to be a better person everyday and I will strive to do that. I can’t thank you enough for coming and sharing his story with us. I will always remember his story and be the better person throughout all my life. Thank you so much!!!!!
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Hi,
I was at the presentation yesterday and heard about Chris and it made me think of all of the people like Chris. He must have been a really good brother and friend to have, the story was so inspirational and amazing, it made me think of how many people get treated like they’re just another person it this world and it just made me feel like those people are the people who are the best and I would never bully or do anything mean to people like that or anyone as a matter if fact. I love all of the stories that you told they were just an insparation of kindness and loyalty to have towards other people that there needs to be more people in this world like Chris, who would listen and make you feel like you belonged in this world we live in today, there are so many people who discriminate you for what you do or wear and its just messed up because people like Chris are the true people in this world, I’m truly sorry for your loss of such a great role model. Chris will always be in my prayers and in my heart. Thank you for the stories
LCMS-Louisa County Middle School 7th grader 12 yrs old September 1st 2017- Heros get remembered but legends never die.
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Hey Mr. Reavis you came to LCMS yesterday(8-31-17).The story about your brother moved me. I am going to try to take the pledg.My name is Cheyenne.
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Thank you for telling the students at LCMS about your brother Chris, Luther, and the girl in your old neighborhood it touched everyone’s heart many of the kids were crying because the were so touched with your message 🙂 -LCMS Student.
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Thank you sm for inspiring others to be kind every single day 🙂 -lcms student
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Hi from LCMS Louisa County Middle School 8th grade and yesterday the presentation was so inspirational and I will show kindness today. Also I will follow you on Instagram and share. Thanks LCMS.
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Hi Mr. Doug,
Your story was a true inspiration to me and my friends. Chris seems like he was a great brother. I just wanted to say thank you for sharing such a personal story with a group of strangers like us. I hope your family is doing well.
Thanks again,
Emma McGehee
7th grade student at LCMS
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Thank you for coming to LCMS. Thank you for your time you spent with us and I will change my action because of you and a great hero, Chris.
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Hi you came to my school today and u changed my life thanks so much!!!!!!!!
8th grade
Louisa county middle school
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Your speech and presentation today was so moving. Bullying is such a terrible thing and it shouldn’t happen in any school. Im very very glad you came today to Louisa County. Thank you for taking your time to see us. I’m sure Chris was an amazing person, just like you! 🙂
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Thank You for presenting today I’m so glad you were able to come share that story about Luther, Chris, and Karen. The way you spoke to us it was like you were wanting to sit on that couch and talk to him again. The presentation made me cry but I managed to get myself back together.
Thanks From,
Ariel Breznick one of the Middle Schoolers that asked you a question.
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Today in Louisa Va I sat through a hour long speach. It was the best speech I had ever seen. Thank you for inspiring me.
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Hi Mr. Doug. You came to my school (LMMS) back in the 1st semester. To this day I still look back on this presentation and the impact it made on my life. Thank you so so so much for sharing Chris’ story with us.
With All the love in my heart,
Ainsley Collier (6th grader)
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Hey name is Cheyenne and I go to MCJHS just wanted to say thank you for coming to my school on 3-22-17. Your speech was so inspirational and I loved it. I will never forget about you and your speech. Sorry I didn’t come say something to you when you were at my school. I would have but I didn’t know what to say then but yeah thank you again. I thank it helped a lot of people to be nicer and stop bulling. I hope you have luck telling it to everyone else. God bless you and your family and have a good rest of the day. 🙂
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Hi…My name is Kelly. I go to MCJHS and wanted to thank you for sharing your very sad yet inspirational story to us on 3-22-17. It touched many including me. And i just wanted to thank you again.
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Mr. Douglas,
Today you came to Macon County Jr. High (3-23-17) I have never been so touched in my life. That you told about your little brother Chris and about friend at school “LADY!!” I wanted to thank you for coming today and spending your time with use and telling your story❣ I want to admit to you that I have once been a bully and I once have been bullied but being a bully is not what anyone should be… and I learned that. I’m here for Chris and your family to tell you that I’m taking the Silent-Strength!!! I can’t thank you enough for coming because you have changed me by telling me your story, and for showing all the pictures of Chris growing up. He was precious and I bet that Chris is up there in heaven looking down on his big brother and thinking “I’m proud of him”. I’m also proud of you Mr. Douglas for getting up in front of a whole middle school and speaking to us I remember you saying you where nervous because you didn’t wanna mess up I under stand that and I’m proud and thankful for you, Mr. Douglas
Yours truly, 8th grader Frome MCJH
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Today I sat and listened to your presentation 3-23-17. Having someone close to me who is in the same situation Chris was, really helps me put in the perspective how lucky we are. Thanks you for your words of kindness to me today and the graditude you have shown me and my peers. Your story is so amazing, yet reality for so many people in this world today. I just want to say thank you
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Hi! You came to Macon County Junior High today and let me just say. You got me in tears. Its amazing how you can speak about Chris. Thank you for coming. A lot of people in my class were crying. I loved it.
~ Sydni, 8th grade.
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You came to MCHS today (3-23-17), I really enjoyed your speech and you did a good job. I hope the story gets out and people will be nicer. I am taking the pledge tomorrow. I hope many others are inspired by your word. -Brook
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Hi my name is Hannah from Macon county high school I would like to thank you for all of your stories! I appreciate everything that you have told us I enjoyed it!! Your a blessing
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Hi Mr. Doug,
You came to my school today (3-17-17). You shared your amazing story with lots and lots of people. I think it’s amazing that you do this. You said one thing today that caught really my attention, “Today your actions will speak louder than your words”. That made me so happy yet so sad I wanted to cry. I hope that you continue on your journey to success with young children. I noticed you were very nervous. I was standing up there for about 2 minutes (for the spelling bee) and I was nervous. I thought that maybe you were too scared to get judged by teens. I would be too. Teenagers are brutally honest and they will tell you what’s on their mind when it is. I was sitting very high up in the bleachers almost balling my eyes out. Yet you didn’t shed a single tear. I didn’t loose a brother, you did. How on Earth can you possibly talk about your passed brother without crying. I just wish that you would and could come back because honestly, most of the kids who needed this speech probably weren’t listening. Some kids are so rude, some are so nice. They judge people by how they look not how they are. I want you and everyone reading this to know that, wether a child is fat or skinny, smart or not so smart, funny or not funny, pretty or ugly, they are worth it. Thy will always be enough wether they think so or not. Thank you so much. You were nervous but I thought you did great! I couldn’t thank you enough for passing this story on. God bless you and your family for now and eternity.
– Mckenna Ecker, 6th grade, Hamburg Area Middle School
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Hello I an one of the students that you told your story to at hamburg area middle school. I want to start off by saying thank you for coming and sharing your story with us. Normally the assembly’s are the same average thing but your story really got to me and a lot of other people to. And the assembly’s that we have at school don’t really do a hole lot but you really make me want to make a difference so saying that im going to try to not take one day but a hole lot more and just do the right thing. I support you your family and everything that you have done. I hope you get to read this message but if you don’t that’s ok I understand you must be really busy. Have a wonder full day and a hole lot more.God bless and good by. signed madison. p.s you did a great job.
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Dear Mr. Doug,
Thank you for coming to our school today (1/24/17) and teaching us about your life experiences and your sweet little brother Chris!! This by far, was my favorite assembly ever!! It really showed us how our actions can make or break someones day. Thank you so much!!! I learned A LOT!!!
~Miarra (Ingomar Middle School)
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Thank you for coming to IMS today! Chris is a true inspiration!!
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Thank you so much for your amazing presentation IMS! I loved the stories you told and was really touched by each one. They made me think about how I want other people to think of me and what I want to do for others. I hope you continue to spread your message to other schools all over! I think you are making a big difference in everyone’s life. Thank you so much for making a big difference in mine!
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This story was so touching! It taught about how one person, with no matter the handicap, can make a huge positive difference.
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Hi I am from IMS you just came to our school today and your speech really inspired me. Thank you so much for coming in and telling us a very powerful and inspiring speech to us. You did a really awesome job! Keep doing what your doing! – IMS
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I like your story, GO SILENT STRENGHT!!!
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Hello, I am from WMS! You came to our school a few days ago and told us about your brother Chris. I really enjoyed your speech. I want to think you, you did an amazing job! Keep doing what you are doing!
all the love,
WMS
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Dear Faithful Silent Strength, Before you came to E.b. Stanley middle school on Friday, January 20th, 2017, our school wasn’t so friendly when it came to students being nice. I mean, i should know, I’m in 6th grade yet only 4′ 4″. I get bullied every day, no lie. But then you gave that speech. About Chris and Luther and that girl. 50% of our 400 6th and 7th cried during the whole thing including me. And because of your speech, I think everyone really thought about what it takes to make a persons day better. Kindness. I haven’t bullied in an entire week! Thank you sir, Amelia Coleman 🙂
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Thank you so much Mr. Reavis for coming to our school today and talking about your amazing brother, Chris, and your great friend, Luther. It was truly an inspiration to everybody! It was a beautiful, amazing story. I’ve never heard a story as amazing and heart-filled as the one you told us today! Thank you again and I wish you and your family the very best and we all know that you and your story are going to inspire so many more people!
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Dear Mr. Reavis,
THANKS SO MUCH for coming to Wallace Middle School and sharing your story about your brother!! That made my heart smile!!!The speech that you made made me realize how bad you could hurt someone with your words that are rude and disrespectful. I realized that it doesn’t get you anywhere to make fun of someone even if they don’t have problems! I really think that this all started when i started losing my family and everyone would laugh about it. But you have been someone in my life that i look up too!!! WE LOVE Chris so much and were so glad that you took time out of your day to come and talk to Wallace middle School!! God Bless…
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I am praying for Chris
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Dear Mr. Reavis,
I just wanted to say thank you for coming to my school and giving the program. It changed my life and I am so thankful for that. I think that little girl and Chris are smiling down at you right now, they would be so proud.
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Thank you so much for coming to Wallace today. I’ve been greatly impacted by what you said. I will live by Chris’s motto everyday. Thank you.❤️
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Thank you so much for coming to WMS. You have opened my eyes up to something amazing and am gonna do the challenge you have encouraged me greatly.
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Hi i am Hunter from Wallace Middle School.Thank you so much for that lovely presentation.That video brought my heart out and can be helpful for me and to help others make their life great and make them feel welcome into my hearts and i will remember the video in my heart and keep Chris in my heart thank you.
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Thank you so much Mr.Reavis for being the inspiration of my life. I will cherish every moment of this donation process I have started for you. Thank you for changing me!
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Doug,
Thank you for coming to North Lincoln Middle today to share Chris’ story! Our students and faculty sincerely enjoyed your message. It is obvious how special Chris was to your family! Great job on continuing his legacy, I believe Chris would be proud! On a funny note, I will never be able to listen to a Kenny Rogers song again with a straight face!
Thanks again & Prayers as you continue your kindness ministry!
Candall Hilton
Physical Education
NLMS, Denver NC
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Thank you for coming to north Lincoln middle today and thank you for telling us about Chris from Garrett
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Thank you so much for coming to my school the other day! I’m so glad you came because you’ve changed my best friend’s life. She was getting a little bullied by a boy in our grade and the day after the assembly she came to me and told her that that boy never said anything mean to her that day and we think it’s because the assembly really touched him. Thank you so much!
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Hello Coach
Reavis!
This is Mandy (Stowers) of Rocky Gap, VA class of 2005. I came across
this website a couple of days ago. You and your family are such
wonderful people and what you all are doing to help and inspire others
is absolutely incredible. I can truly say that I was fortunate to be
one of your students. Thank you for all you have ever inspired and
done for myself. I wish you all the best.
Mandy (Stowers) Yates

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Hi I am a student from SMS today at your speech about your life and you’re journey me and my friends took your pledge and now are thinking less about ourselves and more about how to help others we also got to know each other better and find out our differences and similarities thank you for turning on that light
Love
Tiffany
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Chris’s story has touched so many lives not only in his family but to complete strangers, and i think that’s amazing. You are all so blessed to have had him as a part of your wonderful family.
~Celina Russell
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Jan.5,2017
Today at school (Spotsy Middle) I went to an assembly that was totally the most deep, heartfelt, and a kinda
funny assembly I’ve ever attended in my entire life. Chris, if you’re listening,I will take the silent pledge for a whole day in honor of you and your family.
THANK YOU.
Sincerely, Kiyan Jacob Zahabi
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Hi I am from SMS students and your story was very inspirational to me. Your life story was very inspiring.i hope that everyone should hear this story life changing for people to hear your story And I thank u for telling us that life story. You are really brave. God bless you all
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Hi. My name is Sara. You came to my school today. I go to Spotsylvania Middle School. I would like to say thank you for coming out and telling my classmates and I your story. I thought it was very sweet.
Thank you once again for coming out to my school!
-Sara
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Hi! My name is Ashlyn! you came to my school today (SMS) and you spoke to us about basically your life story. But I am aware of what it is about. You seemed kind of nervous like you told us what you were going to be kind of like. I do not blame you either your life is VERY Inspirational, Persuasive, Heart Loving, Kind, Generous, and the most positive things I can think of. I wanted to thank you for being that one person that I know to be able to come to schools for a couple years and tell your life story to basically almost the whole world because who knows where kids came from! you were SO brave to do that and physically show people what its like and how it sounds and affects people when they are bullied. you are VERY inspirational to me and my fellow friends, family, and classmates. you are SO generous to speak to these kids and adults about your inspiring life story. And people say that they’ve never bullied, and that disappoints me and everyone, but YOU have put together these real life story’s not just to make it your own but to tell the truth about you, your friends, your family, and everyone that was involved. You are amazing at what you do in your life. Chris, he is just AMAZING just as you are, that girl that you and your friends bullied wasn’t you until now where your telling us that you went out to go find her and say “I’m sorry” that is you. you have found yourself in a position that is amazing and wonderful. Thank you again for definitely showing me and spending your time on us to show and tell NOT TO BULLY!!! (; although I am sorry for your guy’s loss in family and friends. That girl, she is probably crying from what you said, but you know what I GAURANTEE you that they were “Happy” tears because you said sorry so many times she probably laughed!(; your brother, Chris, he looks AMAZING you can tell that he was VERY sweet kind and smart because Chris he showed that you can Love without words, he showed that loving was hard at first but you can show it when you really try to find new routes between the tall grass and certain bugs in the logs, ok your mom is the BEST MOM I HAVE EVER MET AND HEARD OF!!!(; (well obviously other than my mom cause, she’s my mom…) (; and your dad is too. your whole family is Fabulous. You guys, Thank You for taking the time to put your life story out there. Thank You for showing me that bullying isn’t worth it. And Thank You for trying your best to CHANGE.(;
From: Ashlyn Sapp/6th Grader @ Parkside Elementary School(;
(Chris and the Lady, they’re watching and listening to you now and thinking, “Dang, he is the best person I have EVER met.(; God Bless you and your Family. Amen (;
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Howdy do. My name is Yusef. You visited Spotsylvania Middle School today and I cannot thank you enough. I showed my mother the website and slideshow, and I think she tore up a bit, as did I when I saw it in the auditorium today. I wish that more people could be as innocent and joyful as your brother Chris, and friend Luther, but not have the limiting circumstances that they were born with. I hope you go on to inspire more.
-Yusef Yusefsherif
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Hi I’m Searcy James, one of the students in SMS. Your story was amazing and very moving when you made this tribute for you brother and he would be very proud of you and that little girl,too. I was so moved I cryed and smiled when hear storys like that. I wish to thank you and god bless you all.:)
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im from ATMS and i apreciate it because i want to stick up for others i really think that you helped our school and i think that it will really reduce the bullying and you really in couraged me to speak up
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You came to Keystone Oaks today and shared you story about your brother and Luther and how you stuck up for him not caring what anyone else thought or did and really that just made me feel so much better because recently i have been sticking up for more people because I’ve been sick of seeing how sad people make each other just for praise and it got directed towards me a bit and i didn’t care but i was going to stop because i didn’t think i was helping i mean it wasn’t like i stopped bullying in my school but your story makes me want to keep going you made me believe i can still help no matter if it is just one person or hundreds it still is a life that deserves happiness because we really don’t know what anyone goes through so why not at least try to make a difference. Thank You
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Currently watching you speak from keystone oaks high school, love your story and you as a person! Me and my friends think you are an amazing speaker and person and we are proud of you and your strength! Chris would be very very proud of you
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Hey my name is Ryli and you came to my school today(ATMS) and i just wanted to write this message to thank you and i really enjoyed it , it really thouched my heart cause i use to be mean , rude , ext to some kids and because of you i went and i appoligized to the kids so i just wanted to thank you and i hope when you see this it will make you smile sincerly Ryli Adams
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hi I am a student from atm’s and your did a speech there and i just wanted to say thank you for sharing that it might not be much but i just wanted to say that also the slide show gave me memories of some other family members that have passed but mostly it made me happy,I will be praying for Chris and Luther so if you ever fell down just remember what your brother taught you and the changes you have made in your life.I this once i might be saying it wrong but you will understand what i mean,”if you fell guilty for something and try to forget it but you can’t then it is probably something you should remember and try to learn from it to make yourself a better person-sao watchers will know what i am talking about-so thank you.
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Today you where at my school (atms) and I believe your speech touched each and everyone of us at school today. I was so touched by your speech it made me cry my eyes out. I am so glad we still have people like you on this earth and hopefully more people will turn out like you as you share your story with more and more people.
Thank you so very much,
Jordan Robbins
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Hi my name is Kyndal you came to my school today (ATMS) and I just wanted to let you know that y’all were amazing your words truly touched me and I hope that forever they touch other people your story really helped me because for the past couple days I could not figure out who I wanted to be and when you talked it was like God had you come to me and let me know who I really wanted to be so I wanted you to know that your words will forever be with me!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!

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Hi, I am a student at ELMS. You came to are school about a month ago. But your presentation was really moving to me and my friends. It made me feel all the good happy feels, the story’s about Chris and Luther and the girl in your neighborhood really made me think about how people act towards each other, and how we should be kinder to each other. Thank you for teaching us all something and sharing your story
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I heard your presentation at RYLA 2016 in Blacksburg this weekend. Without comparison! This was truly one of the most impacting and meaningful stories I’ve ever heard. Chris’s impartiality to all and your message of kindness will resonate with the 150+ participants throughout our lives. If only everyone could leave a legacy such as Chris has done. Our world would truly be a better place. Thank you for sharing this wonderful story!
James Turner
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thank you for coming to our school(Tuckahoe middle school richmond VA) and sharing your story it inspired us,we hope to see you again some day ,and please carry on your story-Alexadnria alston-nagel
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Thank you for coming to RCM, honestly we all can learn a valuable lesson from your story and how strong Chris was in his life.
I honestly think everyone should to the pledge and learn how to be more thankful and how to be stronger in life cause we all have our ups and downs at one point in life but can not relate to Chris. Once again thank you for coming to our school.

Thank you,
Ian
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Thank you for coming to richmond county school today (11-18-16) when you were saying all that stuff about chris tears just broke out of my eyes I am so sorry for your lost and your speech you were saying told me I have so many apologies to say thank you again for coming you just touched me right to my heart so thank you for coming ( Trinity Moreno Richmond county public school 6th grade)
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Hi. I’m an RCMS student. You probably won’t see this comment, but I just wanted to say this anyway. Today the beautiful story of Chris was shared to me at my school. It was very heartwarming and me and my friends almost cried to the story. Even though I didnt know Chris, he seems like he was a very kind person. I think that everybody could learn from Chris. The world can sometimes be such a cruel place. It’s people like Chris that make life better. People won’t look twice when someone is in need, but there’s always that one person that would listen to all of your problems without complaining. That’s Chris. Some people would say that he’s not strong just because he’s disabled, but Chris was much stronger than the harsh people in this world. People need to be like Chris sometimes. Please share Chris’s beautiful story with friends, family, heck even share it with you next door neighbor! And please remember, to always be strong, and to have the power of silent strength…
~Lots of love, Alyssa
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I loved your awesome talk about Chris it made me stop and think what I should do differently how I can improve
I will Tyr to do the pledge I hope I can make a difference. Thanks for sharing !!!!!!!
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Thanks for sharing your story with RCMS. It was very touching.
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Hey! I am a student from SCMS! Thank you so much for coming to our school and sharing Chris’s inspiring story. It really got kids at my school doing the right thing all day every day! POWER TO CHRIS!!!!
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Thank you for coming to my school and that is sweet that you put up a website for your mom. Thank you for coming and sharing I will always spread what you thought me.
From Morgan Summey
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Hi!
My name is Austin Bennett and i go to ELMS in
Denver NC. My school has been really strict about
bullying lately, you really helped my school today,
your presentation really touched my heart about your
brother Chris and Luther. You are really brave for going
to a bunch of schools and doing this for a living. For now
on for my whole entire life, i will remember your quote.

Thank you so much for coming to my school 🙂
11-14-16
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Hi my name is
Landon Burns I go to ELMS and I really liked your presentation. I came
home and told my mom and dad about Luther and Chris and how Chris
would snuggle on the couch with people. I want to say thank you for
coming to my school and sharing your story with my school. I will try
to let my positive actions speak louder than my words and follow in
the footsteps of your brother Chris. I will wear my wrist band every
day thank you for coming to my school.
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I’m from scms
this is a bit delayed but i would like to thank you for coming to our
school. Chris’ story inspired me to try and be a better person. When
i looked around me during the story about Luther and him trying to try
on the t-shirt you got him everyone was laughing and when you talked
about Chris everyone was teary eyed.I will try to be more like Chris
and he sounded like a wonderful person I hope he rests in peace.
thanks, scms student
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Hi! I got to scms
and the other day you came and gave a speech. I was expecting the same
old bland don’t bully speech, but your speech was so personal, so
inspirational. I felt as if you were talking to each of us
individually. It must have been very hard for you to admit a mistake
you made in the past and tell us Chris and Luther’s story. I admire
you and your bravery. It was the most inspirational story I have ever
heard, and I was listening to every word. I really loved your speech
so thank you so much!!!
-a scms student
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Thank you for coming to my school, SCMS! Your story really taught me a life lesson. I enjoyed it so much! I will never forget this. Thank you so much!
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I loved your speech about Chris at south Charlotte middle school today.
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Today I saw this presentation and sobbed the entire time. I loved it. Chris rest in peace.
-SCMS student
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I am from SCMS. Thank you so much for coming to our school. Chris’ story was very moving and it made me want to be a better person. You taught us all a very important lesson that we will never forget. Thanks so much!
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Thanks for coming to my school SCMS. You really touched a lot of peoples hearts. When I got on to the bus that was the only topic of discussion. We all loved your story thanks for sharing it with us. We think that you changed the way the school will be from this day forward. Me and my friends love the story of Luther God bless you & have a nice day. 😀
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Hi, I am a student from SCMS. Thank You so much for coming to our school today. I wish Chris was here to see the big impact it made on people to be kind. Thank you so so much for inspiring me and many other people! Thank you for making me realize how important it is to be kind. It just makes me feel warm to see a person inspiring other people! This really touched my heart! TODAY MY POSITIVE ACTIONS WILL SPEAK LOUDER THAN MY WORDS!
-Thank You!!!
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Just Thank you you message helped me out so much
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Today we went to the program and we really enjoyed hearing what you said and it was very emotional and extremely encouraging as well as sad. You did an amazing job and what we heard is exactly what we needed to hear. Chris is awesome and he will be remembered always.
SCMS students:)
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Hi, I am a student from LCMS. I would like to thank you for coming to our school. I wish Chris could’ve been there. He would’ve been so proud. Thanks.
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Your program at my school was absolutely
amazing and if Chris was still around I’d love to meet him. Chris is
my hero you have a good day now and keep being amazing your doing
something great
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Hey this is a
student from lcms (lumpkin county middle school) thank you for talking
at our school it is very heart warming story and I am very sorry for
Chris and I am saying thank you for what you did for talking to Luther
it was a great thing for to do and keep this thing going it is great
and I can promise more people like me will send you messages about you
speech and what you did
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Hello I’m a member at LCMS. I would like to than, you. On that day it was my b-day and I didn’t feal happy. I thought that I was the most miserable person until you came. I’m sorry Chris passed and I wish you and your family the best of hope and good luck.

Sincerely,
L.C.M.S student
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Thanks for coming to my school and sharing your story about struggles and Chris. This really makes me rethink how I will act. 🙂 I appreciate it.
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I watched the presentation today at LCMS it was very inspirational and thank you for taking your time to come talk to to us. I will take the pledge. When I went to swim an hour ago I tried to be positive and cheer my teammates on. I will never forget your story and it has changed my life forever.
Love,
A 5th grader
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Hi I am a student from LCMS (lumpkin county middle school) and this heart warming story made my day and I am glad that you came to our school to talk we all needed that and thanks for all of your stories like Luther and all of the other ones. I am so sorry for the loss of Chris even though it was a couple of years ago and hope your family stays strong. Ps : I’m the one of student who came up to you in the gym. Thanks for all your time and hope you can spread the word about him.
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thank you very much for coming to whitewater middle school and telling your two stories about luthar and chris. I will happily take the pledge. Thank You!
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Thank you sooo much for the inspirational speech at Lumpkin County Middle School! It was so inspiring and I enjoyed it so much and it was a blessing to hear the stories!
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I really enjoyed your story of your little brother at Lcms thank you
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I’m showing this to my grandmother. I was so inspired by your story, I just had to!

-A Somers-Born Girl
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Thank you soooooooooooooooooo much for coming to Whitewater Middle School! Your story really touched me, and I feel it will help me become a better person.
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Tommorow in rememberance of Chris I will do the silent strength pledge because he they came to my school
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Thanks, for telling us your/mike story at white water middle school. It was so inspiring.
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Thank so much for coming to white water middle, I love the message of your story. I never got to know Cris, but he seems really great. your story was so touching.
THANK YOU
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Thank you for the great things you said today,i was extremely inspired by what you said today. I also want to say i thing you’re just a great guy with a great spirit,Thank you

-Lucas Martin,From white water middle
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Thank you so much for coming to my school today. I will take the pledge because I know how much it hurts to get teased and just one act of kindness really helps to make my day better. I’m praying for all of Chris’ family.

Thanks so much!
10/27/16
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THANK YOU for coming to Whitewater middle. I Injoyed The message. It Was Inspiring and very cute. I Will take this lesson into my life. I hope others will too. But thank you….
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Hello I loved the presentation today at whitewater middle school.It really inspired me and I hope Chris is in a better place.

From: Caden Engelbrecht
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The speech you did at White water Middle school was very inspiring . I wanted to thank you very much and wish you all hope . I will take the pledge for a day. I was extremely touched be your speech.
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You did a great job at Whitewater Middle school today. No need to be shy, or nervous. You did so good and you inspired me a lot to be kind to other people. Thanks 🙂
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Thank you for coming to my school today. Back when i was in first grade i was in a small private school. Thanks to several flaws in the system, as stated by my teachers, there was literaly only a total of around six people who werent always trying to bully me. Hearing you talk about difference and the impact of being positive made me very happy. Thank you for making my day such a great one
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Thanks for coming to our school today. I’ve heard millions of stories, but this one really touched my heart. I had to hold my head up to stop the tears from falling. I’ve been bullied on numerous occasions. Heck, I got bullied into stealing chips for somebody at the school café. Anyways, stories like yours show the good in people. And I know I’m a total mess right now, but I just wanted to say thank you. God bless you and I hope you’ll continue to tell Chris’s story. ~Jenny
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Thank you for sharing your profoundly beautiful message with us today at Rising Starr Middle School. I think you really made a difference in our school’s enviroment. Thank you for making everyone kinder and more sensitive. You have changed my life. Thank you.
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Thank u soooo much for coming to RSMS today! God bless u and ur family and u have inspired us so much. Tears came to my eyes and ur story made me have mixed emotions. U were a great speaker and thank u for showing ur love to RSMS. I’m praying for u!
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I’m so glad that you came to my school today you are so very inspiring
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Hi, I hope you guys are reading this I am from rising Starr middle school your speech brought me to tears I am so sorry about Chris passing but I am glad you are doing ok keep going out and speaking
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10/26/2016
hi my name is faith and you came to my school today and you touched my heart and at the end when you should the pictures i cried. Chris sounded like a guy that would be outgoing and that everybody would want to be friends with i know i would i just want to give a hug after i just forgot but ill give bear hug through the internet when i tried to write this message it took me forever to get to the bottom because there is some much people that you touch the heart of because of you. you made me emothioal effected with happiess. i just want to say thank you fo coming to ourer school and telling your story it touched thoudands

love RSMS kids and faculty thank you for sharing your amazing story
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Thank you for coming to our school today. Your program was really profound, and made us think about a lot that goes on at our school. We are grateful that you shared some of the major things that happened in your life to help us make better decisions! Once again that you for coming to our school!

From,
Jackson and
Luke
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Thank you for everything you said. You really made a positive impact on my life. Your speech really touched mt heart.
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Thank you so much for coming to our school and giving us a great program it was SO good.!
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Thank you for sharing the profound story and ledgend of Chris.
-An 8th Grade Student
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You told our school a great meassage today. I am so sorry for your brother passing, but from the story that you told our school today I have learned a lot. I only wish I could have a brother like yours.
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Thank you for coming to Boyce.
I loved your presentation about Chris.
From, Zoë
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I am one of the students from Boyce Middle School and I just wanted to say that almost half of my class was in tears and your speech was so inspirational. Thank you!
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Thank you so much for sharing your story about Chris. It made me almost burst into tears. It was so loving and inspirational. Thank you once again for coming to our school and god bless you and your family.
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Doug
I was one of the students from boyce middle school on October 24 i just want you to know that the story is very good i feel sorry for chris but he is in a better life i am so sorry for you to lose you brother

Att:sarai hernandez
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Doug,
I was one of the students from Bouce Middle School, which you visited on October 24. I just wanted to say I’m sorry. Most were either in tears or nearly there. Thank you for coming. I will take the pledge today.

Raniya Kethavath
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Silent Strength is really awesome! Thanks for coming to Boyce!
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Silent Strength is awesome!!
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Thank you for the photo, I was the one on the stairs. Chris seemed like a really nice guy, today, I am doing the pledge.
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Doug,
I was a students at Boyce Middle School, one of the schools you visited today. (October 24) I just wanted to say thank you. I know a lot of the people I talked to about it liked your presentation a LOT. Also, I will try to use the motto as often as possible.
Thanks again,
Carter McClintock-Comeaux
Boyce Middle School
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Hi! I’m from Boyce Middle school, when you came today everyone was filled with happiness joy and even some people with tears. Don’t ever be worried that kids and adults will think you are boring. You made us laugh and cry but over all it was amazing. I found the website and insanely watch the video of Chris. I know it is rough but know this… We All Love You And Care About You. God bless you and your family
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Thank you so much for coming to Boyce Middle School today. Your speech was very moving and inspired me to be a better person and spread kindness.
~ Emily
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Hi Doug. This is Mansi. You came to Boyce Middle School today(10/24/16).Your speech really almost made tears come down my eyes. You also made me crack up when you told the story about Luther. I hope you read this and smile really big. I will try to follow that pledge.

-Mansi Lathia(Boyce Middle School)
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So incredibly touching. This speech had me and my friends in tears. Wow. Thank you for inspiring me! Love a student from fort couch middle school- maddie
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Thank you for coming to Fort Couch! It was very touching and encouraged positivity.
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I’m a student from Boyce middle school thank you sooooo much for coming with your presentation. I was deeply touched by your speech. My name is Maxim Shevchenko.

I send you my regards,
Max
P.S. tell your mom and brother I said hi.
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Today you came to my school and shared Chris’ message and story. This was extremely moving and heartwarming. I think it is important that we hear stories like this, and please continue to share this. I just wanted to reach out and say thank you for doing this.
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I was at Fort Couch today, one of the schools you visited. it was such a motivating and beautiful presentation and gave me a new perspective. thanks!
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Thank you for coming to Boyce middle school. I loved your assembly! it was very inspiring,and it made me realize how much i have and is capable of. thanks again!
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THANK YOU I hope you can come again
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Hi! I am a student in Boyce Middle School. My name is Shivani Kamineni. Your assembly was very touching and ALL of my classmates loved the inspirational story about Chris. Thanks for coming to our school! I think you made a big difference in my friends, classmates, and students!
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Thank you for taking the time out of your day to come to our school. It really meant a lot!
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Thanks so much for coming to Boyce Middle School. My aunt is like Chris and your story reminded me of her.
From,
George Garces
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BEST ASSEMBLY EVER. You were great… made about half of our class cry at Tuckahoe Middle, even the teacher. it was so inspirational. It really hit my heart. So strong.

~~~~~~~ Chandler Tinsley ~~~~~~~
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Hi I think Chris sounds like a kind nice and inspirational person and the next time someone thinks that their life is tough well they should think they should think about Chris and his life.
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Hi. This is Teagan. I’m not sure you remember me from Tuckahoe Middle School. But I was the one you shared your chips with. Thank you for that by the way. I wanted to tell you that what you said was very inspiring. And I hope you can spread the story of your brother (Chris) and Luther. Thank you for that. Bye!
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Thank you so much for coming to Tuckahoe Middle School. We appreciate that you came to our school to talk about something so sad, that someone would need alot of courage to do.
🙂 Have a wonderful day
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Your story has touched my heart like no other. It made me think of how grateful I should be for this beautiful gift of life and sometimes how I take a lot of things for granted. I am so glad you decided to tell your story. Thank you so much for coming to TMS.
God bless you
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Hey Mr. Reavis this is Alyssa again the kid that sat next to you at lunch. As I said already, it is amazing how you are able to talk about Chris, as your younger brother. As other kids had said god bless you and chris is definitely watching over you.I wish there were more kids and people that are like you and chris. you are true angels. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. -sincerely Alyssa Holt Tuckahoe middle school
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Thank you so very
much for coming to talk at my school. Your words were (and are)
incredibly poignant and truly touched me. I’m entirely certain that
your speech brought meaning to every single student who attended the
assembly, and I can personally admit that you brought tears to my
eyes. Mr. Reavis, you have taken something that very easily could have
destroyed you, and you decided to turn it around and create something
beautiful with it. Your family is a marvel, and I greatly admire and
respect both your ability to spread positivity and kindness, and also
your unity and overwhelming sense of love and support as kin. As I
walked out of the Tuckahoe Middle School gymanisum today, I felt as
though I had been presented with an opportunity to appreciate not just
what I have, but also to appreciate what I may not have recognized as
a true gift before today. Your brother and his heart of gold is now in
the hearts of thousands. There is beauty in everything, Mr. Reavis.
Thank you so much. I hope and anticipate all the best for you.

Your TMS lunch buddy,
Kristen
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Thank You for
coming to Tuckahoe Middle today!! Your story was very powerful and it
effected a lot of students here. Keep doing what you guys are doing,
we need inspiration like you in this world.
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Thank you so
much for coming today, your presentation today was so special from all
the ones that I have been to, you are amazing! I know that chris will
be so proud of you. You, and your family are in my heart forever. Once
again I can’t thank you enough you inspired everyone in TMS .God
bless you!
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Thank you for
making our school feel awesome and making us fell like we should be
better people~Tuckahoe Middle School
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Thank you for coming to TMS and teaching those valuable lessons. I shall think of what Chris would do in any scenario, being positive.
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Hi, Mr. Reavis!!!
I am a student at Chilhowie Middle School, and your speech was the best I’ve ever heard. It was so inspirational, I love the strength you have to share your story and Chris’s legacy. I will practice the “Silent Strength” pledge until I get it right!
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Your Speech Today (10-20-16) was so motivational the Principle started to cry a little bit.
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I loved the stuff you told us today and i felt bad for Chris and i wish that all of your family members and you can have the best lives ever and i wish to see Chris in real life but God bless you and have a wonderful life without Chris in your life.

Tuckahoe middle school

By XavierSmith
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thank you so much for coming to TMS this is one of the students that is in 6th grade and I am so glad you came because you Inspired me to be nicer then ever I loved the story you told and keep doing what you are doing because it can make a change in peoples live’s like it did in mine
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Thank you so much for sharing Chris (HERO).You inspired me to help others and never be mean to anyone .I know you told us not to cry or be sad.But, that was very sad for me. I wish i could’ve met Chris in real life. I’m pretty sure that was a tough time for you and your family. God Bless You! I am praying so hard for Chris and you. You taught me that it does not matter what you are like it is how you act! So thank you so much for coming to TMS to share your story.:)

{Trista Henshaw}
From Tuckahoe Middle School
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Best assembly in my 9 years of going to school. I now try my hardest to be like Chris.
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Thanks for coming to TMS today.
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Thank you for coming to my school I lived your story’s.Chris would be so proud of you.He is all was in your heart. He is probably looking down on you right know from heaven. He is your hero but Chris may have Thought you were his. I loved the pictures of him and video. I all must cried today when you were yelling the story touching. I liked your high school story to. Have fun at your Next school thank you again – Sophie fisher
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Thank you for coming to Tuckahoe Middle. Your story was inspiring and heartwarming.
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You are so inspiring, I hope you carry on with your life with strength, postivity and inspiration Thank you
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Wow, the story you told me today at tuckahoe middle was absolutely inspiring. thank you so much! God bless you and your family because you guys take you time to come talk to us and that is just amazing. Thanks!
~Megan McBride
From Tuckahoe Middle School
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Thank you for coming to . are school the story is great Chris will all whys be a hero.He will all whys be in are hearts.I love that you take time to come and see as at are school. I am going to try my best to be kind like Chris.
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tysm for coming to tuckahoe middle!! i hope you enjoined it here 😀 We loved you here and no i am not one of the grown-ups im a students writing this :3 i hope you have a good day and tell your kids i said hello
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Today you came to my school and your message got to me I appreciate what you did and how to spread the awareness. My cousin has something similar to what your brother had, part of her brain died when she was born and is like you brother. Your message has got to a lot of people at Tuckahoe. Thank you for coming to Tuckahoe middle school. 10/20/16 -Emily
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This message was a good message and i will always remember this the next time I am thinking about doing something not nice I will remember what you said and make sure i don’t say that. Thank for coming to Tuckahoe Middle school. 10/20/16 -Emily
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You came to our school today and taught us all how to be kind and respectful and I really appreciated that. The speech, the story, and the slideshow were all very powerful.
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I just heard you speak at Tuckahoe Middle School. Your presentation/speech was very inspiring and useful. You made me and everyone else really think about all the bad and hurtful things we have done in our life. And think of all the things we have that some other people would love to have but don’t. I can’t even think of how difficult and challenging this must have been for you to talk about him but also how great you felt on the impact and positive contribution he gave you and everyone. I will have Chris in my heart and remember next time i speak poorly i will think twice and not say it at all or to just say sorry if it comes out.
-Clara
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Thank you so much for coming to Tuckahoe Middle and talking to us! I loved hearing your story and all about Chris. It was really meaningful, and you inspired me and a lot of other people to try and be nice to everyone like Chris was.
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Thank you for the amazing and powerful speech. That was touching and heartwarming. I want to say that you are very inspiring. Thank you.
-TMS 🙂
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Thank you for speaking. That really touched my heart. I think that the presentation touched other peoples hearts too. Thak you chris
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I want to thank you so much for coming to Tuckahoe Middle School! I am a student here and it really meant a lot for me when you came! I am so glad that I know your story and it has inspired me to start to act more like him. I am so grateful for people like you in this world! 🙂
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Chris’s story totally made my day! Your speech was so inspiring Thank you so much,
Bridget Amrhein, Tuckahoe Middle School
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You came to our school (Tuckahoe Middle School) today and discussed Chris’s and your life stories and I think I speak for all of us when I say that you really touched us. Thank you for sharing with us and I hope everyone left your assembly today with a different and better outlook on life, because I certainly did.
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Anti-Bullying. We’ve all heard that before and all been to the assemblies in school. But they don’t stand out at all. I find all of them bland, but I felt something else when I found myself sitting in this particular assembly. This one stood out and had a clear, moving message. Keep doing what you are doing for Chris and for Luthor.

Jerry Lin TMS
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Well first of all this finally a different assembly from the same four we’ve been getting for years. But i think that we won’t be doing our job by simply just doing things by our-self. We must lead not just try to change the world by our self, we must lead others, we must tell our message beyond only our self, we must create a movement. That is the smallest thing to do justice to Chris’s memory. Thank you from Tuckahoe Middle School.
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Thanks so much for addressing this story at Tuckahoe Middle School God Bless you all.
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Thank you for bringing this very powerful story to our school. I made me want to be nice to anyone. I hope Chris is happy that you shared the wonderful story of his life. I bet Luther is wearing his shirt too.
From,
Charlie Thompson
Tuckahoe middle
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God bless him
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Thank you so much for sharing Chris’s story it was very touching and revealing to once again thank you
From,
Brennan B. Tuckahoe MIddle school
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Dear Chris,
Thank you so much for your inspiration to your brother, and everyone around you. This program touched my heart. My brother, Ben, has severe autism and can barely communicate, but I love him with all of my heart. I am very grateful for your presentation, and I’m sure my brother is too. I am going to tell him everything about this.
Love,
Jonah and Ben (TMS)
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Your presentation today really moved me. It inspired me to try to be as positive as I can. What you are doing is an amazing thing and I think everyone should spread your legacy and what your trying to say to people’s hearts.
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Great speech! Made me feel very positive and feel very uplifted! Tuckahoe Middle School will miss you!
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Thanks so much for coming to our school. The message you gave to us was very inspiring. I feel it gave hope to a lot of people.
Evan Reynolds Tuckahoe Middle School
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This program was so powerful. Thank you so much for coming to my school.
-olivia
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Thanks for coming today
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Thank you for presenting about your brother and your experiences. It was very moving and we all really appreciated it
Some TMS 8th graders
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Thank you for speaking at Matthew Henson Middle School. I loved your message of kindness, and I believe you had an impact on everyone.
Cpl. Kim Selkirk
Matthew Henson Middle School
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Thank you so much for coming and speaking at Chilhowie High School today! I was in 9th grade the first time you came to visit and I am now in 11th grade and I absolutely love to hear your story! My little sister is 13 and was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis in 2008 and even though she couldn’t be at your program today, she has heard about you and she knows how it feels to stand out in a crowd. Your story moves our whole family for we all know how hard it is to be bullied because of being a little different and what you did for that little boy brings me joy in knowing someone really cares about someone’s happiness.

Thanks again,
Katelyn Winebarger
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I enjoyed the very moving program. On the Behalf of Chilhowie Middle and High School, thank you so much.
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From Pottstown Middle School Homeroom 303-thank you for sharing your story and inspiring us to be better people!
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I had this speech today, this made me and all of the girls and boys in my school cry. This inspired ALL of us! I hope that chris is in a better place and that this gets spread to kids across america because i will never forget this experience!
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I had an assembly today at milton somers. That story really touched me. Chris was so kind. How did you feel when Chris passed? I loved the part when Chris would come and snuggle on the couch. Thank you for inspiring me!
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Your speech broke my heart. I am so glad that you shared that with us. Previously, I had not been so nice to a few people. Now, I will make sure that, in honor of Chris, I will be kinder. I especially wnjoyed your story about Luther and that little girl. Thank you so much, and I probably will see you at the presentation for parents tonight. 🙂

-A Somers-Born Girl
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Wow, you really made me cry today! I’m from Milton Somers, and I love your story about the Kenny Rogers T-shirt! You are officially my hero now! 🙂 Luther reminds me of my friend in San Diego named Ernie. He couldn’t talk, but he could walk and smile. He loved to laugh and he always made me happy with the smile on his face! Thanks for coming to our school!

-That random 6th grader from Somers :3
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I would like to take time out of my day to say thank you for stoping by and talking to my school today (10-14-16 Milton Somers middle school). I am glad to say this was my first assembly I didn’t talk through and That’s saying something. I have to admit I did cry a little but they wear tears of inspiration and I thank you for that. I hope you continue to share Chris and your story. The part of the story were you talked about Luther really motivated me to say/do something kind to others. I will admit I kinda pick on people but today that immediately changed I was complimenting people around me. I really appreciate you and your story.

Sincerely
Anonymous
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Your Presentation inspired me to be kind to others
-Milton M Somers
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We saw your message today and it was very inspiring. People cried inspirational tears. Thank you for sharing your story. 🙂
-Milton Somers Middle School
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thank you for coming to matthew Henson u broung tears to my eyes my heart broke…my school people have been bullied but I thinks its stoping now thank u so much and I hope u continue to spread this message to more schools to prevent buling’
-matthew Henson we apprate you
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I am from NMS and I would like to say thank you for going to my school to tell everyone there about Chris. The wristband does not fit on my wrist, but I still make sure it is with me always. After we left the auditorium, so many people were talking about how awesome Chris was. Bullying had been a problem prior to your speech, but now it is almost gone. I hope that you can keep going to schools everywhere so other schools can hear your message. I will remember Chris for the rest of my life and so will the rest of the students at NMS- Randall Gardiner
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I just want to say thank you so much for coming to our school and showing us your website and giving us that presentation. I know a lot of students don’t think much about it, but I’ve had experience with this situation. It meant a lot to have you here. So once again, thank you. From Nelson County High School. -Maddy Davis
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Mr. Reavis,

Thank you for sharing your heart felt testimony today with us at NMS! I came home and immediately shared your website with my husband and children. The plans that God made in His angel Chris has much purpose and love. I pray for God’s strength, wisdom and love; that you will continue to let your light shine! God Bless you and your ministry!
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I would personally like to thank you for the absolute greatest speech I have ever heard in all my life! Everything you told my fellow classmates and I today will stick with me forever! You showed great courage to do what you done today. Quite honestly, I had no clue what we was in for when we came to the auditorium, I was just excited to be out of class. But after a few moments I realized that this was likely to be serious, so I started to really focus on you and what you was saying. After that i was completely speechless, in shock, and saddened by what had happened. But then you started to talk about how big of a hero he was, and it lifted my spirit and to see you get a smile out of everything, made me smile. thank you so much for changing my life and helping me view life in a different way…a better way!
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Today at NMS, you changed the lives of many. I was personally touched by the bravery and courage that you showed today. Tomorrow, 10/6/16, I will certainly pledge Chris’s moto all day. I don’t want you to worry if you did or didn’t do a good job. You didn’t do a good job, you did an AMAZING, GREAT, BEST EVER job. You are amazing and so was Chris.
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All of my friends pledged to never take off the wrist bands. The presentation was really well thought out and I really enjoyed it. Thanks For coming to Nelson
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Your message has impacted a lot of souls, the speech at my school was greatly appreciated. I think what this program does is great, keep the kindness going! -MSM
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I enjoyed learning about Chris and I pray that everything will be all right with your family. I learned a lot today when Doug gave the presentation. I cried at the end with the slideshow of Chris. when he told the story about Luther and how he would say yes but shake his head no, I thought that was funny and cool. I also loved how when he got the shirt he started to strip in the cafeteria. I loved the whole thing and it was very heartwarming. Good luck to you all!
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Today, you spoke at my school. I find it very nice of you to come here today and share your story. it made me cry and feel like that is true we should be kind to people. something i need to work on being to my boyfriend ha. but i really wanna thank you for coming here today to teach us a valuable lesson we can use now and later in life. i will share your story. 🙂
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You came to Nelson County High School today, we just want to say that that was the most motivational and inspirational assembly ever.Yours and your brothers story is very touching and the lesson that we learned today will never be forgotten.And neither will your brother.Thank you.
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Hello! I saw your presentation today at MMS and it was very nice 🙂 Chris sounds absolutely fantastic and I’m glad that you came and talked to us about him. I found it brave that you didn’t hide the fact that you bullied someone before and that it can be hard to be positive and spread that positivity. I’m sure that that girl forgives you for what you did. I’m sure she knows your remorse and she’s proud of you for what you’re doing now.
The presentation really made me think about the things I say and do. I really hope I can become a better, more positive person and your presentation really inspires me.
I hope you have the best of luck and a wonderful time doing whatever your future plans may be :3
Thanks for presenting at our school :3 :3

Girl with Blue Lipstick
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Thank you for coming to my school, your story of Chris has really inspired me, i’d take the pleage and will, thank you for helping to keep schools everywhere safe from bullying. There are kids all around America and with this program you are helping thousands of kids and i agree with that kid that said the little girl heard you, and i think she is so proud of you, sharing your brothers story, and Luthor, they’er so many kids that need this and i believe you are helping them with this program and you should keep going, thanks for coming and keep spreading the word

Sincerely
Clayton Harper
From MMS in VA
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Dear Mr. Reavis,
I am a student at the Mcdonogh school in Owings Mills and I just wanted to say out of all the great guest speakers and great speeches there, yours had the greatest positive impact on me. I learned from you that kindness is one of the greatest gifts you can give to a person, you just have to be willing to do it. Your story about Chris and Luther had such a great positive effect on me. I will now be more kind to others. Thank You Mr. Reavis I will always remember your speech.
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I am a high school students in Mcdonogh school in Baltimore. I just wanted to say thank you for sharing Chris’ story- it is truly an inspiration. That assembly touched my heart and will forever change the way I treat other people. Please know that by you telling Chris’ story, you are changing so many people’s lives for the better! May God bless you.
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Dear Doug,
Normally I hate assemblies. Either they’re about kids at school acting up, or they’re concerts, were everyone screams. I hate both, and when they told us we weren’t allowed to bring books, I sighed. Your assembly was AMAZING though. I have the lowest expectations of any assembly in Middle school but yours changed that, AND it topped the best assembly in elementary school. (Elementary school assemblies are the best.) Thank you so much for your presentation. I hope you know that everyone was touched by your story. Chris is probably looking down from heaven at you and smiling, proud of what your doing. Please keep sharing your story.
Love,
Emily Price
(A Lost Mountain 7th Grader)
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Hi, I’m a student from lost mountain middle school. Your presentation made me so inspired, and I nearly cried. It is extremely hard to get through a death in one’s family, and especially someone as caring and as Loving as Chris. My sister, McCall died when she was only 4 years old. She got echoli, and she got it from the kiddy pool at white water. I wasn’t alive at this time, but stories are enough to make me tear up. Your story, as well as Chris’ and Luther’s makes me want to make a difference in the world and show that we were given the privilege to be kind and happiness. No matter what you can or can’t do, there’s always something positive we can do. You taught me that, and I thank you so much. I will cherish your story through my life.

Sincerely,
Gib Akin
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Thank you so much
for that presentation, recently I have been the one being picked on
all because I was standing up for my friend Alex, and many other
friends of mine. but now I see light at the end of my tunnel, a bright
light brighter than any other, hope.
I will never forget the way you treated me as I walked up in front of the rows of other LMMS students in the
theater to tell you…” *God bless you* “
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I was a Lost
Mountain Middle School today! Amazing presentation!!! Keep doing what
your doing!
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Hi I am a student
at Lost Mountain Middle School. Your amazing presentation has taught
me to just love one another and be kind. I am sorry for your loss and
i hope that more and more kids can get this presentation. This has
truly touched me today and I hope you will always live knowing your
brother is forever at peace.
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I just wanted to say thank you for coming to Lost Mountain Middle. I enjoyed enjoyed hearing how Chris was kind-hearted and sweet to everyone. Also I love when you talked about Luther. You made a difference here at Lost Mountain. I have Chris in my prayers and I bet that girl already accepted your apology. Thank you for coming!

-6th grader
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I am a student at Lost Mountain Middle School. I absolutely loved your presentation. It was so inspiring. Please don’t stop sharing Chris’ story. There are so many people touched by his story and kindness. I will take the Silent- Strength pledge. Please come back to Lost Mountain soon. You have truly changed our school.
– 6th grader
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this site and the speech that you gave at my school was very moving! i will one day try and take the pledge!
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Thanks for coming to Lost Mountain Middle. I will pray for Chris. Also, thanks for sharing about Luther, it was really funny!
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Dear Doug, thank you so much for coming to Lost Mountain Middle, to talk to us. All i have to say is Thank You for your kindness.
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I saw you at Lost Mountain Middle School, I’m sorry for your loss. You were so funny when you told us about Luther. Thank you for talking to us. I know it must feel bad for you to never say sorry to that girl but I think she already forgives you. That story about Luther was one of the most funniest stories I have ever heard.
– 6th grader
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Today I was very touched about what you guys said at our assembly and I don’t think I’ve ever seen a better assembly.
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Thank you for all that you do for your family and for sharing his story. I know that you have touched a lot of hearts today and changed a lot of perspectives on how to treat others. Thank you for coming to Lost Mountain and please do again.
Written September 22nd 2016
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I am and 8th grader at LMMS. I loved your speech today! My favorite part was about Luther. Thank you so much for coming! I loved it! It was truely amazing. You should keep doing this and keep telling Chris’s story. Thank you! Even though I will not be there next year, I think that the 6th and 7th graders would like it if you came next year too. Thank you again! -Anonymous
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I saw you at lost mountain today and your speech you said was fantastic. We should all be kind to each other because we never know what the other person is going through. I remember in elementary school I use to be bullied badly. But you have to be strong. Thank you so much for coming. I loved the part about Luther also. – 8th grader
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God bless you guys!! You are truly amazing and I can’t tell you how much you helped and can’t thank you enough 🙂
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I’m an 8th grader at Lost Mountain Middle, and I absolutely loved the presentation. My attention was never divided during the whole thing, and all the stories and messages throughout were extremely moving to me and my friends. I am not ashamed to admit that I cried a little during it. I really want to take the pledge. The presentation was amazing, and Chris, Luther, Kenny, and Matthew. Lauren.
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Mr. Reavis,
Thank you so much for coming to speak at Lost Mountain Middle School. You truly touched my heart. I’m so glad you started sharing yours and Chris’ story with people. I want to strive to be just like Chris. you have changed my life in such a positive way I don’t know how to thank you enough. Chris sounds like and incredible person and I’m sure he is so proud of what your doing – sharing his story to make the world a kinder place. Please don’t ever stop sharing Chris’ story. You and Chris deserved every single clap and standing ovation you recieved today. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

You guys are absolutely amazing and really have touched my heart! God bless you!!:)
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Hey man, I saw the presentation at lost mountain today. I really liked your story and I have a great deal of respect for you because of what you did for Luther and Chris.
Chris is gone now, but he can live on as the audiences that you speak to. We will always be on the couch to listen to your story. Just like Chris.
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I go to Lost Mountain Middle. Although your story didn’t directly go with this, it really did for me. I have a mental disorder and if people were truly nice all the time, then maybe my problems would be less. Your stories were inspiring, too. You should write a book. It would really help a lot of people. Thanks for coming and keep it up. ❤️
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You came to us this afternoon at Lost Mountain Middle School. Of all the presentations I’ve seen, this one touched me the most. Learning your story, I was somewhat amazed at what you did and your family’s story. I would just like to thank you for all that you taught me and my classmates. I am happy and honored to take the pledge. Good luck!
-Brian, 8th grader, Lost Mountain Middle School
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Thank you so much you have made me a stronger person in my life and has changed how I look at thins for the better God bless you
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I heard your presentation at LMMS today! You were a wonderful speaker. The message was so inspiring it made me cry. Thanks so much! -6th grade
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Saw the presentation today at Lost Mountain Middle School in Georgia. Absolutely incredible. Chris’s story touched us all, and we will all keep his story in mind. I loved the story about Luther, so inspiring! Best wishes to you, Mike, and your family and friends. Keep doing what you’re doing, it is truly amazing.
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your speech at south Davie middle school was so amazing I
believe I can speak for every one THANK YOU. Every one was trying to
get those wrist bands some one had eight of them. I think wait I know
I’m gonna try to be like Chris and love every one and not say one
hurtful thing. I just want to say thank you.
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I’m so sorry for your lose. But because of your speech I see things differently and I am grateful that there was a person like Chris to help show others what kindness is all about. And he is the nicest person I have heard of and I am thankful to have been able to hear his story. And thank you so much for coming to my school and telling us about your wonderful brother Chris. And even if you made a few mistakes in your life, I think your brother Chris would be proud of you. Thanks again Doug. 🙂
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Your speech was so good! Sorry for the loss of your brother. He must have been a special person. Thanks for telling us about him.

Mrs. Steele’s Paw Pride from South Davie Middle School

Chase
Maria
Garrett
Trenton
Kayla
Olivia
Kaylee
Damen
Lauren
Joseph
Lee
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Thanks for all you did at Braxton Craven today.  It was an amazing speech and it might have changed my life and it touched my heart.  I wish everyone could hear your speech.  Thank You!
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Thank you so much for coming to our school Braxton and I just want to say well done speaking and well done mother and we will always love you Chris and thank you for always being nice and loving/kind. – Ethan
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Hi my name is Jacob.  I loved your speech.  I’m in 5th grade.  I need to say I look at life differently now and only wish that I had someone like Chris that would just listen to anything I would say. 🙂
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Chris is my role model.
– Cindy (Braxton Craven Middle School)
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I am a student at Braxton Craven.  I thought that your story was amazing and sweet.  It touched me completely and I am trying to be nice like Chris and it is amazing!
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I listened to that story at Braxton Craven Middle School and I loved the story and I just wanted to say that it was encouraging!!!  September 9, 2016 Thank You
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Dear Doug, I am Emilyand I am in the 7th grade. I really appreciated your speech at Maury River Middle School last week. I am praying for you. You were right actions do speak louder than words. I tried your challenge. It worked! I was positive for 24 hours and Im still trying to continue as best as I can. I wish more people were as kind as your brother Chris. Thank you! Praying for you! Goodbye.
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Hey, My name is Josh and I’m from Maury river. I’m in 7th grade. Your speech was very motivating. Ever since that speech I started thinking positive of other people. I wish more people were kind as Chris. Thank you for taking the time and coming to our school. I wanted to talk to you but I couldn’t. But thanks again for coming to our school!
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Hi, I’m Curtis Kilgore and I just listend to your speach and it was amazing. I just want to let you know that I’m praying for you!
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Hi I’m Jordyn from maury river and i would like to say your speech was so motivating pulled my heart strings it takes a lot to do so. I will always keep Chris in mind when being nice and generous god bless him he is suchaving a role model to look up at. BTW I’m that girl that has the brother that’s like Chris I don’t know if u remember.
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I just heard your speech thanks so much
Scottie from Maury river
7th grade
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Thank you so much for sharing your speech today at our school. You are such a brave person. I hope I can learn to be kind no matter what. I may be allergic to those rubber band wrist bands but I had it on anyway because it was worth the cause <3.
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Hello! I’m from Chapin Middle School. I just wanted to say I loved your speech. It brought me to tears at one point. You are so strong and brave! I’ve tried to be nice all my life. I will push my self everyday to be kind to everyone, anywhere, anytime. I wish I could meet your brother, Chris, he seemed so nice! You’ve taught me that anyone can be kind no matter their circumstances.

From, Ashlynn Brissey
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I’m from Chapin Middle School, and you came to us today! I was very touched and could relate in more ways that you could imagine. Thanks for all you’ve done and the message you spread.

Best Wishes,
ER
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i’m from chapin middle south carolina and all of of my friends were crying when we heard your story and i just want to say thanks for being so strong and telling us about your younger brother. it was so inspiring
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I just wanted to say that today at my school (CMS) as we were leaving the gym and heading to our classes I heard everyone around talking about how you made them want to be a better person. My friend standing next to me said, and I quote “man, he made me want to be a better person”. During my classes I noticed already people being nicer to each other. Today you said in your speech you want to leave the world knowing you were a good person. What you do makes so many other lives better like a chain reaction, so know that you are more than a good person you are an outstanding person.

~The girl in garnet pants and a black shirt on the front row.
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Thanks so much for sharing yours and Chris’s story with us! I can speak for the whole school when I say your story touched all of us. My friends was crying and I was tearing up.I know that wear ever Chris is he knows all of us appreciate what he has done. I think we should all be more like Chris throughout our lives. I was inspired by you, Chris, Luther, your Mom, and Kenny. Thanks so so so so so so so so so so so sooooooo much for sharing this with us!
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That speech was so sweet. It almost brought me to tears. Thank you so much for that. Keep doing what you are doing. God bless y’all.

Chapin Middle School person
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You’re awesome Chris.
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Hi this is Brooke and you were the best speaker we’ve had at Chapin Middle School ever and I just wanted to let you know you’ve made a big impact on me and my friend Emma. I will wear my bracelet every day anyway I hope all is well!
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Hi you just finished your speach at my school.. Chapin middles school. thank you for all those inspiring words and god bless you man and your family.
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Your speech was awesome.
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Thank you Doug for sharing Chris’ story with us on 8/15/16- The message was powerful and touched many of us. Positive words and actions are never lost on anyone and we can all give more. I submitted a story for our RESA newsletter and will forward you a copy when it comes out.

Thanks for all you do- Jackie Harris
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Your speach was so inspiring. Today you went to my school and gave an amazing speach. Your speach made me sure that I’m proud to be who I am and I want to thank you. You went through a lot and because you did you created a beautiful story to hopefully inspire many people to do the right thing and be nice. I’m so glad I was one of the people that you could share your story with. God bless you and your family. Chris is a hero. My name is Mercedez and I’m 11 years old. Your speach meant a lot. Thank you. You gave your speach to me 8/15/16. Thanks ❤. Your story meant a lot. ❤
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Hey your message
made a lot of people’s day here. I talked to Jeff Comer after lunch
and told him that Friday was the best back to school program I have
been to in the 38 years I have been teaching in Nelson Co!
Keep up the good work!
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My daughter just told me about your story and I just wanted to say thank you for sharing Chris’s story. It touched my heart so much! May God bless you all!!!
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Mr Reavis, Thank you so much for coming to Christiansburg High School and talking to us about Chris’s story and your experiences. It touched my heart and many other’s. It has made me think more and realize that I should put more thought into what I do and say. Your presentation inspired me and I just wanted to say thank you. Prayers go out to you and your family. Stay strong!!
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Hi Doug, I talked to you today after your freshman speech at Christiansburg High School today and I loved your speech, the best speech I’ve heard in a long, long time, and it has pushed me to try and be nicer than I was already trying to be. I love the story that Chris had, and just the overall feel of your speech, everything was amazing, Thank You. God Bless you and your family and may we all strive to be like Chris everyday; and I am going to take that pledge and try to live it everyday just like Chris did.
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Hello, I am a freshman at Christiansburg Hugh school. Your speech was so inspiring. I try to be kind to everyone and everyday. Not just because I am a Girl Scout and Girl Scouts have to be kind to one another and help do nice things for people but it is the person I am. I actually had a cousin have that same disability your brother had but they died at the age of 20. She was by far the most caring cousin and it was so much fun playing with her. I loved visiting her in Richmond and she actually died while my family was visiting for my birthday. But like I said your speech really inspired me and I teared up in the end because it was so touching.
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Hey I’m a sophomore at christiansburg high school. Usually I am not a very emotional guy but this presentation hit me hard. I have never at the end of a program wanted to get to know the speaker so much. The way you talked about everything made me feel so much affection for you and your family. I really want your message known to the world. If you ever think about it as a choir student I believe a lot of us would want to maybe throw a concert for this cause to just help people feel loved and not alone to change there life. Just something to think about but thank you from the bottom of my heart for this presentation!
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Dear Mr Reavis,
I am a freshman attending Christiansburg High School and I enjoyed your presentation very much. It moved and inspired me to try to do greater things with my life. It takes courage to share a story like that and I want to thank you so much fo coming to our school today
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Hello, Mr. Reavis! I am a sophomore, and I attended the presentation today at Christiansburg High School (Tuesday, February 23r, 2016.) I was very moved by your presentation today! Thank you very much (again) for coming to my school today! Your story is very inspiring! My deepest condolences go out to you and your family! Rest In Peace Chris reavis! And by the way, you mentioned that you get nervous during your presentations, and me being completely honest, you really should not get nervous during your presentations! They are great, and your presentations inspire a lot of people, including me!
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I am a freshman from Christiansburg High School. Today (2-23-16, as someone else said), you came to our school and presented your program. That was the best presentation that has ever come to the school system, in my opinion. I was in tears many, many times throughout the presentation, and especially during the slideshow at the end. I know your presentation touched many of our hearts, including mine.
Doug, I cannot thank you enough for presenting to us today. The messages that you conveyed to us, the emotion you made us feel, all of it… Just, yeah, Thank you so much.
Tomorrow (because I am writing this at 8:15 at night) my positive actions will speak louder than all of my words.
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I am a Junior from Christiansburg High School. Your presentation meant so much to me! My mom always works with children who have the same problems as your brother. I always see love and happiness no matter when or where they are. People don’t care who they hurt today. Well your presentation touched my heart. Thank you so much for sharing your presentation with us today. I pray that your family continues to grow strong and healthy. God bless!
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Dear Mr. Reavis,
I am Senior at Christiansburg High School and I had the pleasure of listening to your presentation today (2-23-16). I wanted to tell you how moved I am by your story, it brought tears to my eyes and really touched me deeply. When I graduate from college I was hoping to be an Occupational Therapist and I was considering working with people who have “disabilities” and your story has definitely clarified that that is what my purpose in life is to do. I truly agree with you when you stated that “normal” people are the ones with the disability formed by society. I believe that everyone has lessons to learn from those less fortunate and those who are considered special ed. I just wanted to thank you for coming to speak to my school today because I very much so enjoyed it.
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Hello! I’m a senior from Christiansburg High School, and I just wanted to say (again) the presentation you gave today was beautiful and touched so many hearts. Thank you so much for sharing with us! God bless you all

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I just found your site after exchanging emails with Sue. We were classmates a loooong time ago. What you’re doing is awesome. If more people were like you and your family, the world would be a much better place. I think Sue raised a great family.
Sean L. Parnell
Fairfax, VA
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Dear Mr. Reavis,

Your presentation yesterday at the RYLA conference meant so much to me. You said to us at the beginning that you were a little nervous about speaking to us – but you shouldn’t have been: your speech was the most touching one I’d heard all weekend (Both I and the two girls sitting on either side of me were fighting back tears the whole time). As a junior in high school, I sometimes worry about going out on my own into a world full of people who want to hurt each other. In fact, today my whole town is on alert because of an armed gunman on the loose. However, when I heard the news this morning, I did not become upset or discouraged. Instead, I became more determined to follow the advice you gave us. Because of you, I will make an effort every day to follow in the footsteps of Chris. I will lead others around me in kindness and I will not let those who wish to stop me accomplish their goal. Thank you so much for your kind and powerful words.
-Oishani
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Doug,
Your presentation at RYLA today was my favorite presentation of the whole weekend. The stories you shared really showed how kind the world can and should be. I just wanted to say thank you for sharing it with us, and I’m sure I can say that on behalf of everybody there it was truly amazing and inspirational.
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When Doug came to my school, FCMS he spoke about this girl he picked on when he was in school. When he got older he felt bad, so he went and tried to find her to say sorry. It touched me because I don’t want to make that same mistake. That’s why I don’t pick on others a lot. Your speech has helped me a lot with that.
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Dear Doug,
That story that you told us was very inspiring and I learned a lot from it. I almost cried. I am glad you could tell us that story. ~Love B.A. Ratcliffe~ ~R.I.P Chris~
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I would have liked to meet Chris in real life so I could tell him how much I appreciate what he did and you for coming and doing that inspiring speech that helped me a lot. I thank you for that.
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The presentation you showed at FCMS and what you said has helped me through this month due to a tragic event that happened on October 3, 2015. You have gave me much to learn from it, and I thank you.
-Austin Blake McGee
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You are doing a lot of good spreading Chris’s positive treatment of others. You have inspired me to be a better person.
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The speech you did really showed me how to treat people like the way your bother did. I have a a crippled family member that is the same way; he was loving on everyone that she saw in her house.
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Dear Doug,
My name is Cody Weatherman. I attend FCMS and I would like to thank you for opening up my eyes on why bullying is bad. If I see bullying I will always tell an adult. I don’t want them to end up like that little girl that you talked about during your speech. I’m really sorry about Chris.I will always visit this website to remember him.
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I’m from FCMS. I would like to thank you so much for visiting our school and sharing that extraordinary message. I will always remember what you told us. I will try to stay positive, complete my classwork with a smile on my face, and be nice to everyone I encounter. I don’t want to feel guilty about something I’ve done to hurt a person. Thank you for visiting FCMS; I will never forget it.
-Misty F.
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Dear Doug,
My name is Isaac Hoops, and I’m from FCMS; you done a brillant job with the video and telling the story about Luther. He sounds funny, especially the Kenny Rogers t-shirt story.
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Thank you for such an inspiring speech you gave us at Fort Chiswell Middle School. I really wish I could have met your brother Cris, and I really liked the story about Luther.
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Dear Doug,
I’m so sorry about what happened to your little brother. I’m sure he was amazing, and I wish everyone could treat others and be treated the way Chris did everyone. Thank you for coming to FCMS to share his story. RIP Chris and God Bless you all!:)
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Hi, I’m Kortnie Surratt. Thank you very much for that wonderful video; I just wanted you to know that me and everyone were so inspired, and we all should go help them out and just be freinds like you and Luther. I bet if I was you, I would have done the same thing. Thanks again for the video, and I hope we see you again.
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I think the joyious part about your speech was when Luther was getting naked in the middle of the cafeteria. The most touching part is that slide show about Chris; I am truly sorry about your loss, but Chris was truly a hero. I will be like him in the future to better my life and help other people get their life on track. I will spread the word about Chris to my friends and family; I will be sure to invlove you in it because YOU are the one that started a nation of wonderful people. Thank you!
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Dear Doug,
My name is Trey Corvin, and I go to FCMS; that video inspired me so much. I bet Chris had a great life before he passed away. And that story about Luther was inspiring to my heart. I was so touched after the video I watched. I wish I could have a brother as great as yours. RIP Chris, God bless you all.
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The speech that you gave at FCMS was very touching, and it was amazing the way it had touched many people the way that it did. I hope that more people will treat others the way Chris did. Thank you for sharing Chris’s story.
~Hannah~
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Thank you for coming to Fort Chiswell Middle School. Your presentation really touched my heart. Thank you for coming and telling me about the story of Chris. It truly inspired me and my classmates.
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Thank you for coming to FCMS; I enjoyed your presentation. It truly inspired me and many others thank you.
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I attended your presentation at Fort Chiswell Middle School. I feel so sorry about what happened to Chris. He is now in Heaven. He will never forget what you guys have done for him in the past 40 years. Here is a good quote from the Bible to Chris, 2 Timothy 4:7-“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
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I recently attended your speech at Fort Chiswell Middle School. I speak for everyone when I say that your speach about your little brother inspired me to let my actions speak louder than my words. If there was one thing that really spoke to me is no matter who the person was, your brother would show them kindness. I am going to try and be like that towards my peers the best I can.
One more thing I would like to share was that after your speech, I witnessed many kids being kind to one another. If you didn’t already know, what you share with thousands of kids really speaks to them. You are really inspiring kids, as well as myself, to act kind towards their peers.
I wish the best for you and your family. Thanks again!
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Dear Doug,
I wasn’t here when you gave the presentation at my school(Fort Chiswell Middle School), but I heard it moved everyone. Looking through your website, seeing your brother, and reading your quote, “Today, my positive actions will speak louder than all of my words,” you have truly changed how I see most things now.
Ginni Tate:)
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I am Kolton Sutphin from Fort Chiswell Middle School, and I am in 8th grade. Your presentation was amazing. I could tell that you have touch a lot of people’s hearts, and thank you for sharing your amazing stories and moments that have happened in your life. Your presentation touch my heart, and I believe that I have met Chris in person. I will keep Chris and your family close to my heart and will pray for you and your family.
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Your story was really cool, and I think that if your brother could talk to you he would say,”Thanks for snuggling with me on the couch.”
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Hello, I loved your speech about Chris. It was extremely pleasant. Your speech has opened my eyes to a more understanding state of mind. I was in your 8th grade class at Fort Chiswell Middle School. Thank you so very much for coming and telling us about Chris and Luther. It was truly a heart-touching experience, not only for me but for a lot of other students.
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Dear Doug,
Your presentation of Chris was so inspirational and so sweet. You have made a huge impact on everyone here at FCMS; thank you for coming and sharing his story.
-Caitlin
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Hi, my name is Levi; you came to FCMS last week. I thought it was a great presentation. I was bullied at my elementry school and had only one friend named Jayce. He stood up for me and more people started being my friend. So in a way, he took the pledge before you came to our school. After that, I decided to show someone the kindness he showed me. So when you came and told us the pledge, I decided to take it and help others.
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Hey, I’m someone from 8th grade at Fort Chiswell Middle School (FCMS), and I think you are the best at what you do. You should talk to every school, I like the part where you told us the about your friend Luther.
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Thank you for coming to Fort Chiswell Middle School. Your message had a lot of meaning and impacted many of us. Thanks for sharing your story about Chris; it really touched my heart!
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Thank you for coming to Fort Chiswell and talking about your best friends and Chris. I felt like the message was going through my mind, and I understand why you miss Chris so much. I also appreciate the fact that you gave your time to talk to us about Chris, and how you and Chris were so close to each other. I would like to try and take the oath, so I want to share your message with people that have social media and other resources. Thank you so much for sharing your story with Fort Chiswell.
(Joseph Helie, 8th grade)
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I really enjoyed your speech; it really put a spark inside my heart. I wish that I could have known Chris; he sounded and looked like a pretty likable guy. He couldn’t say anything but clearly that doesn’t stop him from always staying positve.
Sincerely,
Nolan Blair
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Thank you for coming out to FCMS to talk with us. You have changed how a lot of people treat others at FC. I loved the story about your brother, and I am going to take the pledge in honor of Chris. Don’t stop spreading the story of Chris; it changes a lot of people’s lives.
~Levi Morris (8th Grade FCMS)
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Thank you for coming to FCMS the other day. It was really inspiring to hear yours and Chris’s story. I was in the 8th grade group, and I was touched with your story. Keep doing what you’re doing. God Bless You and Your Family! Thank you again!!!
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When I got to the assembly, I wasn’t expecting much. But you really made me eat my words. Out of all the things I have ever heard, that one really stuck. Thanks a bunch!
-Hanna Phipps (FCMS, 8th grade)
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I didn’t see the presentation, but I have heard a lot about it and read the website. Even though I wasn’t there, it touched my heart when I read about you and your family. You all will be in my mind when I feel bad.
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Hey! Thank you for coming to FCMS to talk about your brother Chris and your good friend Luther. When you told that story, I think that you touched most of us in our hearts. So I just wanted to say thank you for changing my life and the way I look at things.
Sincerely,
A.J. Harrell
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Hey man!! I thought your story was really touching; it went straight to my heart. I know giving that speech must have been hard for you to give, but it humbled me and I thank you for sharing your story with us. God bless you..
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I loved your speech; it changed the way I think of people. I have never bullied or made fun of anyone, and after hearing what you had to say, I never will. My favorite part about your speech was telling the story about Chris. Chris seemed like an amazing person; I wish I could’ve met him. Your advice will stay with me throughout my life. Thank you so much for coming to see us at FCMS.
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Dear Mr. Reavis,
Thank you so much for coming to Fort Chiswell Middle School. This really touched me, and I cried. I’ve had family like Chris. He was my great uncle. I don’t really remember him because I was too young, but when you started telling us about your brother, it hit me in a spot that not many people or things can get to. I would have never been able to round up the strength and courage to go around and talk to everyone about anything like that. Chris’s story moved me. Thank you once again for coming to our school.
Yours Truly,
Morgan Faith Houchins
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It was a great presentation and moved me and a lot of my friends.
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Hello, I was in your 8th grade presentation at FCMS, and I just wanted to say that Chris’s story has really inspired a lot of kids at this school. I have heard at least six people tell me that they almost or did cry. Continue changing the world.
Your Friend, Kat
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Thank you so much for coming to Fort Chiswell Middle School and speaking to the Eighth grade! Your words went straight to my heart; you were very motivational. Chris sounded like a wonderful person to be with!
God bless your family.
Haley:)
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I would like to thank you for speaking at my school, and you touched my heart; I will keep your words and message in mind in the future.
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Hey man!!!! I’m Alex Vaught and I was in your 6th grade presentation at FCMS.. I feel like I have known Chris for all my life… You did an amazing job and I appreciate the fact that this message went straight to my heart!!!! I’m keeping Chris and your family in mind whenever I’m having trouble or get mad…. Thank you for all you did….
~Alex Vaught of FCMS {6th grade}

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I loved the presentation that u did at fortchiswell today. I loved the stories u shared with us. even tho I never knew Chris I feel like he changed my heart!!!! pls always keep giving these speeches they change the way we treat people!!!!!!!!!!!
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I loved your message at Fort Chiswell!
I was in the 6th grade class, Best of wishes,
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Doug, thank you for coming to Fort Chiswell and sharing the story of Chris. I will try to take the silent pledge at school tomorrow. Best wishes, and thank you again.
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Hi! My name is Cheyenne. I’m from the 7th grade FCMS you spoke to today. I really appreciated what you said. My sister is autistic and sometimes its hard to understand her, but that won’t keep me from trying. I wish I could have met Chris, he sounds like a wonderful friend.
We need more kind people.
10/29/15
~Cheyenne
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I went to the Fort Chiswell 6th presentation. I just wanted to tell you that your words went straight to my heart and I will never forget this day. The video made cry watching how strong your family has stayed at this hard time. I just wanted to tell you that your words touched many people. You will be in prayers.
God Bless You,
Sydney Underwood {6th grader}
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Thank you so much for coming to William Byrd! I wish I could have met Chris and sat to talk to him all day. I myself have a brother that is a little bit different from the rest of his friends, and I am truly blessed to have him in my life because if it wasn’t for him I don’t belie that I would be the person I am today. The story of how he was such a human being was touching and I will carry it with me for the rest of my life, and hopefully pass it on to my kids one day. Our school has already changed for the better by people just thinking twice before saying something that could hurt someone. Once again thank you for sharing you’re touching story, it truly means the world.
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i go to William BYRD High Scholl and i wish i could have meet chris when i could have. The message that chris brother had today and the William Byrd High School today was awesome and i hope yall have a great life
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Thank you for coming to William Byrd High School!
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thx for giving that speach at william byrd highschool i would have talked to you in person but i knew that i would just get emotional,but really thanks it was very inspiring sincerly,Aaron Caldwell
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I know how you feel two years ago I had a friend his name was Julian he could not talk or walk but he was the best friend I ever had .
I thankyou and my school thanks you very much ,we thankyou for coming.
from Jacob Fugere
school: saint marys star of the sea school
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Today was awesome! My middle school baseball Coach Reavis came and shared his brother Chris’ story with the student body at Gentry Middle School. My it was powerful and life changing. There was not a dry eye in the assembly. I over heard students at lunch, in gym and in the hallways talking about how much “Silent Strength” effected them. I also observed the way they wore their wrist bands with pride and who they were treating those around them. I have once again saw how Coach Reavis influences those he is around to become a better than they were before they met him. I have been blessed to have Coach Reavis as a teacher, coach and friend. You have greatly impacted my life. I hope I can do the same for others. May God continue to bless you in all that you do.
Your Friend,
SRO, Coach Sechrist
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I’m so sorry about Chris so today I will take the pledge.
Patricia Smith
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Thank u so much for sharing that story with my school today it touched me in so many different ways and I would have loved to meet your brother he sounds like a sweet and kind person he is now my new hero I am on team silent strength
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Dear Mr. Reavis,
Thank you for coming to my school today, and telling us about you and your brother, Chris. It really inspired me to try to be a better person. I enjoyed hearing about how loving and caring Chris was. I would’ve loved to meet him. He sounded like he would be such an amazing person. You’re an amazing person and I’m glad I got to listen, and learn from someone like you. Thanks again for coming today, it really meant a lot to not only me, but everyone. Maybe one day the whole world will be like you and Chris. Best wishes to you and your family.
-Tori V.
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Thank you so much for coming to my school and sharing your story with us. I realized a lot after you came to talk to us, I realized that things that I say could really affect other people and that I should start being nicer. Your brother sounds amazing going Through what he went through with out a single frown. Thank you so much! That made a impact on my life
– GMS
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Dear Mr. Doug Reavis,
I would like to thank you for taking the time out of your schedule to come this morning and talk to us about you and your brother, Chris. You have no idea how much your story meant to me. You talking about your story has made me realize that we only have so little time to try and help make the world better, using not only your physical actions but also your verbal actions. All of us are humans, we do make mistakes, but you have shown us today that you can learn from those mistakes and use your experiences to change your actions. Maybe one day, everyone could be nonjudgmental, just like Chris was.
I wish you and your family the best,
Melody M.
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Mr. Reavis,
Thank you for sharing your experiences with our students. Your message has been heard and felt.
Sincerely,
Kim Davis
Gentry Middle School
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I liked the story you told us today and i will really try to do what you told us to do by being nice one day that inspired me and hope a lot of people will do that.
Love
Coby sawyers
GMS
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I can do my best to be nice as long as i can.
Love
Mikey!
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I love both of the stories you told us! That really inspired me and everybody to make different decisions!!
GMS
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We appreciate you coming to our school today. you spoke very well. we love you
From the 8th grade
GMS
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Thank you Mr. Reavis for coming to Mount View Middle Schooling. I think Chris’s story is truly insperational to me and my friends. Me and my friends cried after the video. I will try to take the silent strength pledge and try to be like Chris. It would have been awesome to sit on the couch with Chris. I thank you again for coming to my school.
Sincerely Darrick L. Robertson
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You came to my school earlier today and I have to say. The presentation was truly moving. Opening your heart up to the world is something hard to do for most people. Sharing your heart, being kind to people. Giving Chris a voice, that is truly amazing and down right awesome. I have a cousin actually, who had a similar condition. My eyes have something wrong with them, and its kind of hard for them to form tears. But I would have been crying my eyes out if it was possible. Not out of being sad, but out of being happy. Giving a voiceless, kind-hearted angel a voice. That’s what I want to do some day. I want people to… see the power they have. To see what their hearts can do to another one. I wish more people had a heart like Chris did. Thank you so very, very much for speaking to my school today. I certainly won’t forget it. -Kelly Mullins (West Virginia)
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Thank you so much for coming to MVMS. I really feel like your speech made a difference in my life. I would’ve loved to meet Chris! I’m glad I got to talk to you and give you a hug afterwards.
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3/4/15You came to my school check elementary today I am glad you came to share an amazing inspiring story about your brother and the loving miracle that no one could ever resist to hear. I think that would be anyone’s dream to be like your brother and the hero of the family thank you.
Remington,
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3/4/15 you came to my school and your story was so inspirational. Im so sorry about your brother Chris. But thanks so much for your amazing story!!
– Katie
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Hello. I’m the boy James bearden from check school that you met march 3rd 2015. I want to say that all you’ve been through, is just SO amazing. I would like to share a nice website for you. It is called jw.org. Again, I want to say thanks for coming 🙂
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I’m so sorry you had to go through that .I pray every single day ,and I’ll include you guys in my daily praying.
A G.V.E.S student
Ashlyn F. N
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Your program was truly inspiring and I took the silent strength challenge and it positively influenced me to be a better person. Thank you for presenting.
A CCMS Student,
Kaylei
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1/29/15 You did a great job presenting about your brother Chris today at Sheffey Elementary School. I am a 5th grade student and it was really AMAZING to hear your story. It really changed my life and how I look at things. Thank you for taking the time to come out and talk with us about Chris. And your slideshow was beyond GREAT it really touched my heart and most of my friends hearts too. I cannot thank you enough.
Love, Hannah
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Hey you came to my school CCMS and that story was amazing about Chris and Luther a bunch of us are taking that pledge thank you so for coming and sharing about kindness.
Love,
Jade
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I am one of the students from CCMS. I had seen the Silent Strength program before and it was even better than I remembered. Thank you so much it made my day to hear your story. I will try my best from now on to live by the Silent Strength pledge.
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Thank you for the speech you really changed my life
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Your story is amazing and should heard by everyone. You made my friday at ccms even better! also on the bus ride home there was a group of us singing a kenny rogers song. god bless you and yours and i’m sure Cris is cuddlling with jesus.
love,
Wesley
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Thank you so much for coming to my school Carroll County I’m so thankful that you can from now on this day forward just like my friend Amber said I will always be praying for you and your family I hope that my childhood would be as good as your families you’re really brave today if it was me I would’ve been crying my granny recently died of cancer about last year or two it has been hard on me and I cant imagine putting anyone through that I just want to wish you a good day.
From your true friend,
Talitha may
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Thank you so much for coming to Carroll county middle school today and touching us all very deeply. Chris’s story touched all of us I think and it was truly amazing. He and your family will be in my prayers from this day forward. Thank you so much. It changed my prospective on allot of things.
Your friend,
Amber
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Chris story is very touching I will remember it for years to come thank you for coming to ccms today I have a friend named Presley and when I see him i say hi my name dylan i talked to u today at ccms thank you bye it’s inspired me to be nice to other people I got a braclet thank you
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This is a very inspirational story.I have learned my lesson on ever being mean to ANYONE.You must be very strong. I sit through almost an hout of it and I loved it. Thank you for sharing.
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This message is so touching thank you for coming to our school today it’s so heartwarming to hear this and I’m so sorry about your loss god bless you
Chloe
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When you came to our school Mr. Reavis, I think you mesmerized everyone in the whole school. It made me emotional. It was the best story I have ever heard in my life. It will want to respect everybody.
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Most powerful assembly I witnessed in my 30 years as a
teacher at CCMS! Thank you Doug for the strength and your willingness to share this amazing story.
Jay McCraw
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Thank you so much for coming to Trailside Middle School and talking about Chris’ Story/life I loved hearing everything about him and wished to meet him sooner I cried but I also laughed because of the joy and inspiration he gave me I’ve been through some rough times but his story has shown me that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and it might take a while but that’s okay as long as you try your hardest and never give up I hope you inspire more people and Please don’t ever stop doing what your doing because I loved hearing every moment of it Love you and I’ll always be thinking of Chris and your amazing inspirational speech
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I will take the silent pledge on Friday 19th 2014. I go to MCA Metrolina Christian Acedemy my name is Anjali
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Hello. I could be like the rest of the people in this forum and send you my condolences but I feel that wouldn’t be sincere, and for this I am sorry. What I can do is offer a quote from a book that is near and dear to my heart. The quote is, “We accept the love we think we deserve.” Now, you may interpret this any way you please but I just thought I’d share it with you sir.
-A Trailside Middle School Student
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Ur story was so touching to me
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i am a student at matthew henson middle school your presentation was really touching i learned alot from your situations.i hope your presentation helped others to understand bullying is wrong. i want you to know even thought i dont know your brother i feel bad about your loss
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Hi, I am a student at William Byrd High School and I just want to say that this story is very touching and changed my life I can’t even explain. It meant so much to me that I even shared it with my church group. I were the bracelet that they gave out all the time. It reminds me that I can do anything I want to achieve. I will never willingly and purposefully tease, or make fun of someone. I am so thankful for his story and that I got to here it.
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Hello i am a student at trail side middle school nathan cantada
During your presentation at my school i cried and laugh at the stories you told i wish you can do it again and i salute to you chris STAND STRONG AND STAND PROUD chris i hope your in a better place now
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My name is Parker Peterson and I am a student at Trailside Middle School. Last Friday, you came to our school and shared the amazing, inspirational, heart-warming story of Chris. My sister has cerabel palsy, and sometimes, like you once did, I think how grateful I am that I am ‘not like her’. However, after seeing your presentation it helped me to understand that she is the most loving and forgiving person I know. Thank you so much for sharing your story at Trailside,
Parker J. Peterson
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Hi! My name is Lauren and I am one of the Trailside Students. I just wanted to tell you guys how brave you are for sharing Chris’ story to so many people. You were a great speaker and your story has changed my life. I am so sorry for you loss and I know that Chris has been hearing everything you say to every school and us appreciating every word you say. We will all miss Chris and he has changed so many people.Thank You, Lauren
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Chris was amazing and your story was really inspirational thank you for coming to trailside 🙂 Chris is in a Great place now.
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Thank you for coming to present for Trailside Middle School, I enjoyed it a lot. 🙂
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Hey Doug my name is Anjali. Here’s how to pronounce it an-j-a-lee. Ur story touched my heart. I go to Metrolina Christian Acedemy
Sincerely,
Anjali
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Hi, my name is Ellen Hong and you came to share the inspirational sorry about Chris at Trailside. It was heartwarming and moved me very much. It shares many characteristics. To love, forgive, to fight, and be determined. I know Chris is in a happy place right now, gazing at you proudly. Thank you for sharing this story with us.
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🙂 your presentation at trailside was amazing
I have watched you twice, once at eagle ridge and once at trailside, and both times I thought that chris was lucky to have you as a brother, and you him.
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I appreciate you coming to Pennington middle school and sharing the story of Chris
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Thank you so much for taking the time to present to us. Chris sounded amazing, and I am so sorry for your loss. God bless your family.
Celeste Nathan
Trailside Middle School
6th grade
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I watched your program twice, in Trailside and in Stone Hill. I loved it both times. Thank you and God bless you
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Hello! I thought the presentation at Trailside was incredible. It made me cry. Chris sounded amazing, and I’m sorry for that. Anyway, that presentation really inspired me to be kind to each and every person I meet. Thank you.
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Thank you soon much for coming to Trailside Middle School I just loved what you shared about your brother Chris.
I had some difficult years of my life too. I lost my brother when I was 6years old he had a disease. I will pray for you and your family.
Sincerely,
Tailside Middle School student
Marta W.
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There are times I don’t except others as I except myself. Truly I was raised that way. My personality is not confusing to others but only me. I am so competitive and always want to be the best because that is why I was brought in this world for, but at the same time if I don’t show kindness and some humanity all would be worth nothing. Chris personally was way smarter than me. He expected, I thought in selfish ways. Now I am changing but I wish that I keep using those simple gifts from the Lord to do something that I am passionate and supportive for others. My worst fear is that people will change me if I don’t stand up. Thank you for your speech. It was positive.
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WE really needed your program at Pennington Middle School. We’ve had a very stressful month with 2 threats to our school. I love anything or anyone who can make many of our “cool, tough” guys cry, as your presentation did. Thank you so much.
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I saw a presentation about Chris in school and it really made me think about my actions. I was a negative person sometimes and I was kinda mean sometimes too. The amazing story made me think twice about what I say and do. I was sad to know he passed away. Heaven gained a beautiful angel.
~RH
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Hi my name is Ben Krynicki,
That ment so much to me on that presoantation that you did for Trailside Middle School. LADY!!! I hope you continue to talk about Chris and I hope he rest peacefully in heaven. God bless you family and thank you for presenting today!!
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Today was the most inspirational moment in my life so far. I just want to say thank you for all of up your determination to put this all together. Stay positive in every thing! – lauren Cole
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Thank you for coming to our school today. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to reflect on the bigger picture. Academics are important, very important even, but above all we need to learn how to be the best humans we can be. You and Chris helped us to be maybe just a little bit better. I know that I thought about your story several times today and reflected on my own interactions with others. I think many others did as well. I;m taking the “silent strength” pledge.
Thank you,
a teacher
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Thank you for coming to my school today. Telling us about Chris and the others Was amazing, and after that I was speechless. I’m so inspired now that I heard the story.thank you again for guiding me to realize that I can be a much better person than I already am.
Thanks again,
Trailside Middle school student
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Thank you so much for coming to my school today.Hearing the presentation about Chris has changed me forever and I will keep it in mind as I go. Thank you again so very much for helping me realize how good of a person I can actually be.
Anonymous
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Thank you for coming to Trailside middle school I was very happy you came to our school. I will be nice to people and help people are are different I really hope to see you again .-KaelanBryant
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It saddens me to hear of Chris’s passing. I had never known him personally, but the story was very touching. I bet Chris would be proud not just that he had been able to acclompish these deeds, but that his family has learned and shared this story to let a child know how to respect it. I know that you presented at Trailside Middle School and since then, it has already changed a person’s view of things and everybody would help others that have fallen down and supported them. Thank you for telling us Chris’s story and it
has already made a difference in our lives. My friends and I are going to tell everybody that we know to do the challenge not just for a day, but for as long as their ability stretches and longer. Thank you for everything, and I will always remember Chris when I preform bad deeds and I will correct them until I can live up to the actions that Chris has done, and will always try to act as he did.
From Will, Halt, and Prannav.
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Thank you for coming to our school and sharing your stories about Chris. we are all very happy that you came to our school. I played the video for my family and they where just as inspired as I was.
Alexei Fritz
6th Grade
Trailside Middle School
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Thank you so much for coming and speaking at Trailside Middle School today! The presentation was amazing and heartwarming. Chris sounded like a really great person. I hope you and your family are doing well and thank you again for coming.
-Kaitlyn
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Thanks for your incredible story I was crying the whole time in the auditorium. :’) But it takes a man to reevaluate his confidence and strength to do this! Love ya!
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Thank you for coming to Trailside. Because of your presentation I have a different look on life. You should always be positive. I also know that when I complain about something I remember that some people have it worse than me. Thank you so much. It was very touching.
Lucas Landry
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my family will pass the message to other people.
thank you very much for coming to Trail side Middle school. I will never forget this story. I will remember this story for my rest of my life. I am so happy I heard the story I will treasure it. I cried so much when I found out about Chris. I had an older sister but she died before I was born.
Your friend, Franchesca Torres
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Hi, my name is Daniella Imre! I’m a student at trailside middle school. I heard your story about your brother Chris in school today. It really touched my heart. I was sobbing. For the rest of the day that is all i thought about. I’m going to wear my silent strength bracelet everyday in honor of Chris. No person should go through that. thank you so much for the presentation and a heart warming story that will always stay in my heart.
God bless you,
Daniella Imre:)
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God bless your family
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Hello my name is Franchesca Torres
I heard the story about Chris. it was sad but touching. I wish I could meet him in person. I so happy you came to Trail side Middle school.
Love Franchesca Torres
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I just heard Chris’ story at my school it was heart warming and I couldn’t stop crying throughout Chris’ story 🙂
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Thank you for sharing your story at my school today. It was very touching, and I saw a ton of people crying. The presentation was motivating. I am sure Chris would be proud.
-Annanya Jain
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i loved the presentation! it inspired me to take the challenge i hope i can do it! thanks for the inspiring words and sharing your story!!!!!
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Thank You for coming to Trailside Middle school. My name is Peter Witt and what you said was inspirational and I am glad you came to my school. It changes my view people I’m going to do the pledge in honor of chris and all others like him. Thanks again.
Peter Witt
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Mr. Reavis,
My name is Gretchen A and I am in sixth grade. On November 21, 2014, you spoke at an assembly at my school, Trailside Middle School in Ashburn, Virginia. It was the most touching thing I have experienced in my entire life. Thank you so much for telling us about Chris, and he will forever be in my heart.
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Sir, you tried your best to be a great brother and I know you did. I know Chris is in a happy place now.
Sincerely,
Sam Williams
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Hi, My name is Madeline. I came up to you after your speech at Trailside Middle School and told you your speech was touching to me. Thank you and be sure to check the book Out Of My Mind out.
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Hello! My name is Bailey. you told us the story of Chris at my school, Trailside Middle School. And I have to say, your story was really amazing and heartfelt.I want to help you share your amazing story. i am going to tell my friends at other schools and to ask them to take the challenge!
Thank you for coming to my school!
Bailey Keener
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Hi, i really enjoyed your story about Chris at Trailside Middle school today and it was very inspiratioal. thaank you for your time and GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
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This was a really inspiring story for me.

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hi, I’m Lexie. I met you at the November 21 speech At trailside middle school. you are so incredible and I could never in my life fill your place. God bless you and your family.
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Hello, you have inspired me so much you just came recently to my school[Trailside Middle School] thank you for your amazing asebely
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hi i am diego battle i was at you show at trailside and i love it i cried because it was so amazing
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I was just at your assembly and it was very inspiring, it made me think about what other people are going through in life. Your brother lived an amazing life, your brother Chris is someone I would want to be. He lived and he wasn’t disabled he lived a better life than the people that were calling him those names. He is looking down on you and he is proud of what you have become. Chris is very inspiring and I hope that you come to trailside middle school again!!!!
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my name is Gabriela I am from trailside middle school thank you for taking time to share your story with the school. GOD BLESS YOU
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Hello, my name is Nicolas I really enjoyed your speech and it was very inspirational thank you.
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Today you came to my school Traliside Middle. I wanted to tell you that your speech was very powerful. I am going to join your facebook page.
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Thank you for coming to Trailside middle School your story touched my heart and many others. Your family inspires me and will forever
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Thank you for speaking at Trailside Middle School.
It was a very powerful presentation and will leave me thinking about it forever.
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Hello. My name is Erl Fantilaga. Today I heard the heartwarming story of Chris
in my school’s auditorium.
I was very moved and cried multiple times when i
heard the stories. I hope Silent Strength comes back to my school next year. The
presentation was very touching and i hope to hear more from you.

Thank
you, Erl Fantilaga 🙂
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Thank you so much for coming to Pennington middle school and sharing chris’
story. I think that chris’ story will change a whole lot of peoples lives at
PMS. Your mom is an inspiration to me and all of my friends.
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hey im from penigton middle and my name is katlyn what you said was amazing,
Chris sounds like a amazing person I wish I had a best guy friend like him
actally I would love to be meant him, I couldn’t say I know what your going
through it was probably hard but I know you was there for him
love* Katlyn
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Hello! My name is Haley and you came to Pennington Middle School yesterday and
it really really touched my heart!!!!! I really enjoyed it and I believe that
Cris is looking down at you and he is so happy for you to be doing this for
him!!!!!Thanks for coming to Pennington Middle School!! It really touched my
heart!!!!!!
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Hi my name is Selena Alsup 7th grader Pennington Middle school I thank you for
coming to my school keep ob doing what you are doing we all loved ur program it
made me cry even when i gpt home I started crying thanks for sharing ur story
about Chris ur brother he is looking dwon on you I promise that he is and that
he loves and misses you Chris is lucky that he haves a brother like you you
helped pennington middle school thanks again I never can thank you anough I am
in specil edd at school peaple made fun of me I felled like I was nothing but
when you said what you said in the program I know am starting to know that I am
somebody am sssssoooo sorry about Chris thanks again:)
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LaVerne Brown Wednesday, November 19, 2014

I was so moved by your message of love and kindness toward our fellow travelers on this journey we call life. I can honestly say that I have never heard a more positive approach to the topic of bullying anywhere. Ever. What an inspiration your brother was to those whose paths crossed his during his short time here on earth.
Our students were truly mesmerized by your story, and it is at those times that the message penetrates to the heart and finds its home! I humbly thank you for spending this precious time with us at Jonesville Middle School this morning, and I pray God’s richest blessings on you as you continue this ministry for Chris.
LaVerne Brown, teacher
Grade 7
Jonesville Middle School
Jonesville VA
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Thank you so much for coming to JMS and sharing your story with us… It really touched my heart… You did an amazing job … Thank you again:)))
Stephanie Long
Family preservation mentor
Jonesville Middle School
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Hello, you recently came to my school (Pennington Middle) and your presentation was really great….. Your story is really inspirational and I thank you! I’m not one of the kids that came up to you after school so I didn’t get to meet you….. But I still want you to know to keep doing what you’re doing. Sincerely an inspired kid.
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Hi. This is Angelina Kelly 13 yrs old and Haven Alsup 13 yrs. old from Pennington Middle you come today 11/19/14 and we just wanted to say thank you for a touching story about your brother we are really sorry about Chris and it really helped 7th grade today everybody cried in that video and we loved the program so thank you very much for coming and taking time out of your day to come so again thank you.
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Hi, My name is Elizabeth. Mr.Reavis came to my school today(Pennington Middle). I cried more than I’ve ever cried during a school program. I wished i could’ve talked to you but we were rushed to get to our lockers. Chris’s story inspired me so very much and I have taken the pledge. I had someone close to me who was in the same condition as Chris. He past away 2 years ago, he was 25. The program today brought back many memories and for that I’m very thankful. I send love and compassion to you and your family. I’m very very deeply sorry for your loss of Chris. I think that wherever he is he looking down on all of you and i think he’d be very proud of you!!! Again I thank you!!!!!!!
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hello u came to my school thank you for telling me this story I have got bulled in my life every one should be like him God bless u all
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Hi, You just came to my school on November 19. Your speech was very touching and I would like to thank you telling us about chris.
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Angelina Kelly and Haven Alsup from Pennington Middle 7th grade wants to thank you for a touching story today. 11/19/14 CHRIS WOULD BE AN AWESOME PERSON TO MEET
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Hi ,
My name is Dyamond and you recently came to my school ( prospect heights ) . I just wanted to say Mr.Reavis what you said really really inspired me so much . I actually cried when you told us your story . It was so emotional and very uplifting to think that your brother was in that condition but very loving and caring as well . I wish I could have talked to you after the speech but we had to hurry and get back to class . I hate when people judge someone by their looks but don’t know your story . I’m so glad you got to come to our school . Much love to you and your family . Thank you for being you and being such a wonderful person as you are
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Hello, my name is Holly! I just wanted to take a moment to tell you how greatly you impacted my life with your speech at my school on November 12, 2014. It was so much more than just an assembly about treating others kindly… I saw people laughing along at light-hearted times, people crying at profoundly moving times. You were able to evoke so many emotions with your speech, and I want you to know how glad I am that you came to speak to us! You made each of your stories very relatable and I’m thankful that people like you exist in the world. Chris was surely a phenominal human being. I can’t imagine anyone going through their entire life without once showing negativity towards another person. Thank you SO much for your kind words and inspirational stories!!! You and Chris have become role models for me. 🙂
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i wish i could meet Chris he sounnded like he would care for any person on earth.My name is emily clarie catron i’m at hillsville elementary school
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Hello there! I was photographing your assembly at William Byrd High School earlier this evening for my Journalism I class, and the raw emotion you display during your presentation is really amazing, not only visibly, but in your words as well. Admittedly, we’re a bunch of teenagers, and we tend to have short attention spans, but I couldn’t find one student in the audience that wasn’t totally immersed in your stories, and I think that’s amazing. I just wanted to drop by and thank you personally for giving your presentation at our school, hope you have a wonderful day!
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I think the presentation you gave today at William Byrd High School was very powerful and I feel a lot of people were Touched by your message and I’ve worked with special needs kids before and working with them really moved me to understand they can’t help who they are but they love who they are and I love who they are. My names Cody Hodgson
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thanks for come to my school and give the chanec to change my life more for what you sed today and i hope you come back agian
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hey my name is David i know how you might feel i have a brother and an aunt my aunt has cp and my brother is mentally challenged i called my little brother after your presentation and it made him happy to hear from me i told him about chris and the little boy he is alsoa big fan of cuddling and he loves everyone
David Smith
wbhs student
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i know that i have already put something but i really can not thank you as much as i want to. i have i have thought about what you have said and i am trying to do better and be nice toi my older brother.i am still thinking about that in my head and i can not get it out! and i amglad i an not! but thank you for sharing that story. thank you very much! best wishes your freind i
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hi MR.Reavis you came to HES the other day I thought that you did a great job! I was in tears. you and your family must have been broken hearted! I know I would have been, but at least he is in a better place now! I know that Chris would have loved to still be here now. but he was very much loved. he if he could have talked I am sure he would have million things to thank you guys for! also you never know how many people you have touched in their hearts with your heartwarming stories! I hope you have the rest of the year good. best wishes your friend I 😛
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I just herd about this today. Doug came to HES today and my friends and i cried when we heard it. I just wanted to thank Doug for coming to my school today!
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I wish I could of meet chris he must have been loved a lot
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You did a presentation at our school today, and it totally changed our lives. We are from Mercer, if you remember that school. Chris seemed like an incredible person, even though we didn’t know him. From Emily Worley and Sophie Stanley. Aka the principals daughter (Kelli)
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you were at my school today I love what you said about Chris to not udder a single bad or hurtful word in his life is amazing I am going to try to do this for the rest of my days I actually am going to start doing popsicle time with my dad do you remember the girl that came up to you and said I bet Chis was a vary good person I am that girl do you remember the name Kendal I am her I have learned that do not treat people differently because of how they look I hope you come back to mercer next year you are probably not going to read this but if you do CHRIS IS AWESOME <3LOVE CHRIS love:Kendal Autrey
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you did a very good jod I really feel sad I was in tears I help people like chris in 5 grade and now im in 7 im happy that u shared ur story at Mathew Henson I will pray for you and ur family ur story really help the 7 grade I’m sure Chris is enjoying snuggling in Heaven 🙂 we love you Chris♥♥♥♥
love aaliyah martin
Mathew henson
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When I heard Chris’ story, my best friend and I were in tears. To have never spoken a word, and still brighten up someone’s day is truly being a hero. When it seemed like the world was against him, he still was kind.
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Thank you for coming to my school today and giving me the opportunity to take the pledge! I know you proplable won’t read this but you where amazing!!
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That was a good show my boi <3
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Chris is a BOSS
He was always positive. He was never negitive. Man you have the best brother ever.
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You came to Matthew Henson Middle School today and I wanted to say thank you so much for coming becausr maybe some kids now will realize there words hurt and it doesn’t take much to help someone. Your presentation was very motivational and it moved a lot of students and had them in tears. So thank you so much for coming today because it ment a lot. -Karissa
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Your message was very powerful today at matthew henson middle school. Chris is a very inspiring person. I wish that everyone could love everyone just like Chris did. Thank you and Chris for being a positive impact on my life ! 🙂
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thanks for coming to Matthew Henson middle school and sharing your amazing stories about your brother and Luther that was really funny.
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YOU CAME TO MY MIDDLE SCHOOL me and my friend will try to take the pledge and go out of our way to say hi to the life skills kids at our school and I was watching an ESPEN program the other day and I think that a NFL coach has a son with a condition similar toChris. Your story was really inspiring and Luther and Chris sounded like really cool guys and I’m sorry I never met them, I think I would’ve really loved them .
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I just wanted yo say thank you for coming to matthew Henson middle school today and sharing chris’s stiry with us. I remember you t first you yold us you were nervous but then at the end when everyone clapped i saw how happy you were. And thank you for your time
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You are a very nice and brave person for sharing the story with us at matthew henson middle school (thank u)
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I saw your presentation at my school and thank you for sharing that story with us;-)
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Dear mr Reavis,

Thank you so much for coming to Matthew Henson Middle school, my name is Matthew Milstead, I was very touched by your presentation, I will take time out of every one of my days to be kind to someone, I learned to always stay kind to other people because words hurt a lot more than actions sometimes, I know that I’ve been mean to other people, but now I know how it makes people feel, i won’t do that anymore, I promise, god bless you, and thanks again
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thank you so much for visiting Matthew Henson middle school today. I personally enjoyed your presentation and in honor of Chris I accept your challenge!
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The presentation was great thank you for sharing with Matthew Henson middle school
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Matthew Henson middle school 8th grader
your speech you gave today has really impacted the way I think about other people and how our differences can make us stronger. thank you for that. I am going to accept your challenge in honor of Chris who’s story has touched my heart and my perspective on unconditional love
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Thank you for coming to my school today. Your story about Chris really inspired me, and every day I will say that pledge because I think that Chris was a very special person. I didn’t know him but I know if I did I would of loved him.
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I remember You came to my school which was Matthew HENSON middle school “GOD BLESS YOU “
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Today you came to my school and taught 6th and 7th grade a very important message. I cried a lot and I really am glad I understand what bullying puts people through because I didn’t know that much. You told me that it’s ok to cry because that means I have a heart warming soul. I am very sorry for your loss but I know your brother is very proud of you! Thank you again
LaMeya from Matthew Henson Middle School
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 I saw you at Matthew Henson Middle School today.  I liked your video, and I think it got out to all the 8th graders.  I also like your quote.

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I just heard about Chris’s story today and I almost cried when they showed the pictures of Chris. I tried to do the pledge today, but I messed up,so I’m going to try tomorrow. Thank you for sharing your story with us!
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Thank you for coming to my school Benjamin Stoddert yesterday it really gave me a different view of life.
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Thank you for the assembly and sharing your story at school today. I think you inspired people to be better people, including myself. Words are really powerful so if you use it in a kind way, you would feel happy. If not, then you could feel depressed and hurt. So, I would like everyone to be nice to all other people, especially to those who you really don’t like or different than you. I am so sorry about losing Chris, but I know that he will ALWAYS be with you, no matter what.
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Hello and thanks so much for your presentation today! It really did hit me hard , It was a very positive yet sad speech that you gave us at Stoddert. It opened our eyes to a whole new world. Chris is very inspirational to me because he showed kindness to anyone that came across his path.He showed strength without even speaking a single world.
Your words made me tear up a little but I had tears of joy that you came to Stoddert and spoke in front of a group of kids that really needed you!Thanks a lot ♥
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Chris has inspired me to do better and don’t mess with people I thank his bother too he came and talked to my school today and I really listened to wat u said and I thx u your a good person and thx u again for tht story u shared with my school today
Brianna
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thank you for coming to Stoddert today.. you really opened mine and my friends eye. I am sorry for your lost. Chris really seems like a sweet caring person… Your story really inspired me. THANK YO USO MUCH FOR SHAREING YOUR STORY !!!!!! I cired during the assembly and espically during the slideshow
*Mercedes miller
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hi its me nick from benjamin stoddert and i wanted to wright a little bit more than before … so, i love what you are doing for people with bullying and i know how much you love to here things from others that are positive. i also wanted to say that even though i do it already you’ve inspired me to be even nicer to people of all ages. and who ever else reads this, i want you to think about how just one person no matter how big or small someone is, they can still be a great impact on others thoughts and actions. i just wanted to say thank you for comeing and on the behalf of the kids you did inspire i say thank you as well because you did you inspired them. never stop doing what you do because what you do is great … i am one of many that want to speak up and this may be small but its big enough to say what needs to be said. never change.
-nick
… never change …
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Enjoyed your assembly today. Really opened up my eyes. Thanks!
Garrett Hinson
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Hello, you spoke at Carroll County High yesterday. I wanted to thank you so much for speaking to all of us about Chris. I am truly sorry that he passed away, he will always be watching over you though. 🙂 You truly inspired so many kids yesterday to be more nice, and kind, to the kids with disbailites. My boyfriend told me that he was going to be more kind because your words truly got to him, and I just want to thank you again for that. Your stories were absolutely heartwarming. Many people need to be like you, but not everyone is that way. Thank you again for the speaking, and have a fantastic day!
-Autumn L. Brown 9th grader of Carroll County High
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Hi today you did your program at my school Carroll County High Shool. You words went straight to my heart and I thank you for speaking out to us. Im sorry to hear that he passed but he’s never gone; yes his physical form is but his spirit is not, he will always be in your hearts. Your stories were heart warming especially about the little boy who loved the singer and you gave him the shirt. His reaction was so amazing, and funny also. Well, I must say again thank you. My name is Cheyanne Autumn Meadows, age 14, and in the 9th grade. I can see I’m not the only one from my school who has messaged you. I hope you read this and thanks again. ~Cheyanne~
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Hi, today I attended your program at Carroll County High School and I just wanted to say that your words made my day. The story of Chris has changed my perspective on things, it has made me realize that a lot of things I’ve done weren’t right, but even though they weren’t I can still make better actions in the future. I cannot begin to thank you enough. -Katlyn Smythers
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Hi I’m from Carroll county high school and I wanted to thank you so much for sharing your story, it has touched my heart and I have took the pledge. I can only imagine how inspiring and wonderful Chris was. Thank you very much for coming to our school it has impacted so many lives in the way we treat others. Sincerely, Marianna
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Hello, I am a bluefield high school student and I want to thankyou so much for coming to our school, your story has really made a huge impact on my life aswell as the way I’ll treat people in the future. Speaking for everyone in the auditorium Friday morning we all appreciate you visiting our school, it was much needed. Thanks again! -Zoe Nicewander
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Thank you so much for sharing your story at Bluefield High School. Many of my peers and myself are guilty of saying things we shouldn’t and being selfish. I have been bullied ever since I can remember, but I have never thought the things I say may effect people – positive or negative. Your presentation was thought provoking. God blessed you with a gift and purpose. Surely, your speaking helped our school in more ways than one.
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I just wanted to thank you for coming to speak at BHS this week, your entire story was moving. You brought tears to my eyes. I hope you continue to share your story with those who are willing to listen. -Ryan
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Thank you for your awesome presentation today at BHS! Loved it, and even as a big guy, I teared up a bit especially at the end. What a wonderful message! Keep up the great work!
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Doug,
The story on how your brother lived his life without uttering a single negative word truly inspired me. While I sat in the auditorium, listening to you tell the 440 teenagers in my high school about what you observed and experienced by being his brother, I knew what I had to do. Truthfully, I try everyday to always seek positivity while remembering that everyday may not be good, but there is good in everyday, but schoolwork and sports have found a way to creep into the lives of adolescents and stress us out. The point of my comment is to, essentially, commend you on an amazing narration of you and your brother’s life story. As you have probably been told many times before, God makes everything appropriate in its time. I know for a fact that He does, because you couldn’t have come any sooner! You provided our school with a wake up call.
I will take the pledge in Chris’ honor.
Thank you for being such an inspiration. I sincerely hope everything is well for you and your family.
-Trinity Bea, a student at Northumberland High School, Heathsville, VA
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Thank you so much for coming to BHS today! This is the only assembly we’ve had I believe where my class actually payed attention. You were amazing and your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
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Hey I’m Jamie Danley a Bluefield high school student. I was really touched this morning by your speech. On be half of my school we really needed this. Some of us have lost friends that was close to us like a sibling. So it helped us understand more where you were coming from. God is sending messages through you, you may not believe it but i received the message today. From the bottom of my heart i appreciate your time and story.
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I just wanted to send this comment your way to tell you just how inspiring your story really was. I have learned two very important lessons from you and I will try my hardest to always live up to them. The way you spoke of Chris, makes me believe he was one remarkable person and I can only hope to be half the person he was. I also wish that you will continue to do this for a very long time!! You have changed my outlook on life and I can’t thank you enough for making me realize how important it is to be kind. You have made my day and certainly a lot of others as well. Thank you for telling your story to my school, Bluefield High. I really enjoyed your presence 🙂 RIP CHRIS!
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You probably won’t get a chance to read this but you just gave a speech not even five minutes ago and you honestly moved not just me but I think everyone who was in that auditorium. It’s honestly crazy how words can change someone so much. I’m a sophomore at Bluefield High School and through my years of school, not just high school but every grade I’ve been in I’ve seen all types of bullying. I’ve seen mental, physical, things that were just awful. What you said today made me think about all of those things. I feel it made me a better person and made me look at things and situations differently. When I see something happening that I know is wrong, I’m going to think back to this day and give them the chance to have a helping hand. So thank you for sharing your story with us. I want you to know that I am praying for everyone in your family for continuous strength about Chris. He sounded like such an amazing individual.
Thank you,
Haley Williams
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I am a student from bluefield high school and you came and talked to us todat and u are a very amazing person and i enjoyed you so sorry for your lost i know chris was a very amazing person and by the way my oldest brothers name is chris i am praying for you your mom,your dad and your other brother mike. i would have loved to sit on the couch with him and have the best conversation with him ever the was the cutest little man i seen may god continue to bless u in the name of jesus amen
~ from kenade tomlinson
~ to Doug chris and your mom dad and brother
may you rest in paradise chris….
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hi im a student of bluefield high school i am so very thankful for you coming to share your story you brought me to tears numerous times i am so greatful you decided to come speak to us because I never understood the importance of good words and attitudes toward others really mean’t until now i am forever greatful to you and your family thank you so very much
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I was touched by the story of Chris and this was probably what made me decide to survive another week and be kinder to people. I’m so sorry for your loss, and I’m sure that Heaven has gained a beautiful and wonderful angel.
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I just want to say thank you soooo much for coming to Bluefeild High School and speaking to myself and my student body. You are a excellent speaker and your story really stuck out to me. Your brother seemed like a very sweet guy; however, I wish I had a brother like him. I am sorry for your loss and I believe it is so incredible how you go around in such a positive way speaking to us young people. THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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You may remember me from Gladeville Elementary. I was the one who told you the story about my Uncle. The video it was touching and inspiring .
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I know how you feel my cousin past away
from Adamariz
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This is the little boy(so you say) that told you that day about how amazing Chris is and that he really is a role modal to everyone that met him and the people that you tell the story to. You really are doing a great job Doug!!! Now I am 14 but have always kept that story with me.We just got internet at our home and I am glad to be Commenting on this awesome website. Thank You so much for your story about Chris and I hope you Never stop this program because it is so amazing how many lives you touch by just telling a story, an amazing story should I say! Once again Thank YOu Doug and Family for all that you do!!!
Your Friend,
Matt
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Best speaker ever!!!!!! Doug your so lucky to have a brother like Chris
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I try to act like criss, in fact half my friends are disabled, but it can get hard with people always bullying me. So thank you and criss for making a way into me heart. I’m sure you’ve reached out to many people so thank you for reaching out to me.
Sincerely,
The kid in the crowd.
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God bless you Chris
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hi I am Kendra O’Malley from Northumberland Middle school and I think that the memories that Chris’s story is amazing and it touched my heart. For now and forever I will wear my bracelet, silent strength (it says on it), for the rest of my life and it will be in honor of Chris. I wish I was there, for once in my life, sitting there with Chris telling him one of my stories. god bless Chris!!!!
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I am Nick Balderson from NMS. Thank you for coming to our school and talking about Chris. It was a very touching story and I loved it. I hope you can come again Doug.
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Thank you so much for sharing with our school.You and your brother are a positive influence on me including many other children.I hope you keep speaking at many other schools.You your brother and your whole family will be in our prayers. -Amaya
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Hi! Thank you so much for coming to NMS today! It was so great. I loved the video afterwards, although it made me cry. I am so sorry for Chris and I love that you have the strength to share about him. It was a great presentation and I loved your enthusiasm! Thank you so much for coming and I promise that I will take the pledge. I will make an effort to do it all week! Thanks so much!!!!
Abby Gooch, 6th grade, NMS
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Today you came to our school to teach us about you and Chris journey. I don’t think any of the story we heard has touched our hearts like this one has . I really wanted to thank you for you kindness of words and sharing your story with us .
~sincerely Someone From Northumberland
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This was very inspirational and touching. Great job:)
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I loved this.
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Thank you for that story. I needed it. Now I know the right path. Sorry for your loss. from Eric Seldon
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Thank you so much for sharing your brothers story. I along with my students will take the Silent Strength pledge.
T. Lee (Northumberland Middle School)
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Hey, my name is Abby-Pearl, and I’m form Virginia. I get bullied all the time. I heard that our school was having a person to come speak to us about bullying but I would have never thought it would be such a powerful message such as Chris dying. But we all know he is in a better place and we will all join him one day soon or later. The message from Doug, was so… Beautiful, powerful, outstanding! I’ve realized that there is more to a bullying incident, than what meets the human eye, I’ve now taken “bullying” to much serious than others by stepping up for another and much much more!!!!! Thank you soooooo much for coming to our school (Northumberland Middle/High school)
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hello my name is Nicholas tallent you really made me think of how important it is to respect and be kind to other people.Because of you im going to try to be as positive to others as I can. Thannk You.
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His story was amazing and he will be a role model for me. I really enjoyed listening about him. THANKS SO MUCH FOR SHARING HIS STORY WITH ME IT REALLY TOUCHED MY HEART!
~Northumberland Middle
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I am a boy who goes to NMS (Northumberland Middle School) And Chris’s brother spoke today at my school it was a tear dropper for me and many other’s we are making a difference and are going to try to make the silent and strength shirts for everybody in our school…. YOU ROCK AND THANKS FOR THE STORY _____-Michael plante 🙂
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hi my name is Shelby.and I heard about your brother. And I just want to say sorry and that I kind of know thanks sure that experience I know what it feels like to lose somebody I know and I think that if Chris were here today he he he would thank you for sharing on his story
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I will take the pledge on Wednesday 22nd, I feel you what happend
Metrolina supports u very much
Metrolina Christian Acdemy
Anjali maharaj
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Thank u for coming to dms and sharing that wonderful story to us i almost positive ur story changed alot of people thank u and god bless u.
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I feel really bad what happend to your brother It was time that God needed Chris in heaven, when you go to heaven Chris will walk and talk
Metrolina Christian Acdemy 4rth grade
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Thanks for coming to are school twice. I loved your message!
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Thank you so much for coming to DMS your story really touched my heart god bless you and your family <3
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hi, u spoke to pike view middle Thursday what you said changed so many lives me and my friends thank u all
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Thank you for coming to DMS. Your story blessed all of us.
DMS Student, Jesse Shane
P.S. AHHHHHHHHHHH ROGERS,ROGERS,EAR,EAR,EAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!and GOD BLESS YOU FOR EVERYTHING
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His story totally changed my life! I was picking on a kid but, after I heard his story I changed. I hope when other people hear his story Change there life too! Thank you so much! GOD BLESS YOU ALL!
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Hello I’m a middle schooler from DMS !! Today when you told us about Chris and his story it really touched me!! I’m going to try to be so much nicer to people thank you !!
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This was very inspiring and touching! I was moved to tears, as well as many other students were at DMS! I wanted to let you know that I will never forget Chris’ story. this was an amazing life lesson.
God bless,
Grace Hurst
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Thanx for sharing your wonderful story at DMS I love your story and it opened my eyes to the world you brought tears of happiness to my eyes I give u silent and powerful prayers
~Bryanna Gray from DMS
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This really touch touched everybody’s heart. It’s brought back a memory like u and Luther. But thank u for coming to are school!
— Clay Phillips thanks!! Lady.lol
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It’s brought tears to my eyes today when u came to Dublin middle school to share ur amazing story and those tears weren’t saddnes they were saddnes and happiness I will be praying for u and ur family please come back to Dublin middle school and tell us the story again
Love u
~Makenzie Wyrick from Dublin middle
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Thanks for coming to DMS and talking to us
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You came to our school(meadowlark) a few weeks ago and I will be praying for your family, and the speech changed the way I look at life when I see how much a complain about little thing, and then when you were talking about brother it made me realize how blessed I am
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Thanks so much for coming to my school at Pikeview Middle. Your story touched me and made me second think about my thoughts about others even if they are different from me. Thanks for signing my bracelet.
– Kayla Overstreet: Pikeview Middle
10/16/14
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You came to my school today and I thought your story was amazing. I am so glad you came to my school and talked to all of us. I am so glad I got to here about you, Chris, and Luther. THANK YOU!!!!!!!
Ashlynn Bailey
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I want to thank you for coming to PVMS today. Your story was absolutely moving. My friend and I wanted Doug to sign our wrist-bands, and then so did everyone. He signed all of them without a word about it. The world needs more people like that.
-Dustin Parsons, Pikeview Middle School
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Thank you so much for coming to my school today. I realize that sometimes I have been unkind to people who are different and I regret it. Hearing Chris’s story makes me change the way I look at people, whether they are different or the same as me. I just want to say that Chris, from what I heard today, was a very silent but strong person.
Bethany Mays PVMS 10/16/14
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hi. i want to say thank you for telling us about chris. pvms wants to say that u have open our hearts and let us began a new future. all i want you to know is that your a very special person and so does chris. and that i like that u can get on that gym floor and not be ashamed about chris. so i thank you very very much.
yours truly,amber rye
PvmS
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You came to my school today[pvms].I will support you my whole life.
-Timi Blankenship
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This was the best presentation I have ever seen and it changed my life forever when you’ll came to my school pvms thank you very much
Sincerely Timothy laxton
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Hi, my name is Miranda Cales and you came to my school today, Pikeview Middle School. I’m a 6th grader there and you told the most amazing story! I wish I could be as kind and powerful as Chris for one day. I can’t imagine 41 years. I will always remember this and your story touched my heart. God Bless You And Your Whole Family!
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I take the pledge thank you for coming to pikeveiw middle school
-Josh L
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hey my name is hunter graham and u came to pvms today and i must say i am inspired by your story and i will take this pledge for today for chris!
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I take the pledge … You came to my school today metrolina chrishtian academy I loved your speech it touched my 5th grade heart
– KAMRYN
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Hello my name is Kallie i go to Metrolina Christian Academy you came to my school today October 15,2014 i just wanted to say thank you so so so much for coming to my school today YOU and CHRIS have inspired me so much. Today i learned a lesson that will stay with me forever it’s a lesson that should never be forgotten your story is the best story i have ever herd. GOD BLESS YOU!!!
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The chapel was awesome. Just wanted you to know that I have been bullied cause of my age. I have friends that cuddle with me and make my feel secured of I. Am sad. One of those friends have cancer that makes her lose all of her hair, Can you please PRAY for her, I will PRAY for Chris. The bible says we walk by faith and not by sight, Judges 6:12 The Lord is with you mighty warrior. I really felt encouraged by your words to stand strong , you just melted my heart away. From,
A MCA student in Carey’s 4th grade
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Hey, I’m Nora. You came to my school, MCA, and I loved it! I have the wristband and I will never forget the day you came!
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Hey, this is Eliza. You came and spoke with my school today, Metrolina Christian Academy. I pray that people will be inspired like how I was after hearing your presentation. I realized that God can support us in many different ways through many different people. This occurred to me when I was thinking about a girl that I met at Tribe. She was in 7th grade and was a little like the boy named Luther in your message. When I left that night, I was surprised about how much she influenced me and how thankful I am for my life. So on Chris’s behalf, I will pledge to have my actions be more powerful than my words. I guess that it wouldn’t hurt to try… Thanks for coming and speaking with our school!!!
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Hi, I just came back from Metrolina Christian Academy. My name is Ethan, I was the one who said ” I’m sure that Chris is proud of you and loves you
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Hey today’s chapel was awesome thank you for sharing with us today. You really gave me words of wisdom, you have encouraged me to speak the words that you said, what a wonderful brother you have. I helped a girl in my class who has cancer and she broke her arm on her trampoline, Can you Please PRAY for her. The bible says we walk by faith and not by sight. I will pray for your brother. Judges 6:12 The Lord is with you mighty warrior
I just wanted to let u know I have been bullied Your words helped me today From a student from mrs.careys 4rth grade class
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Hey. I’m Brian… You just came to my school (Metrolina Christian) and i was really… just wowed at how awesome your speech was. it wasn’t another DON’T BULLY BECAUSE ITS WRONG speech. i really liked it.
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Hey doug you came to bluestone high school today and your brother sounded really nice and im sorry for your loss …… Im a student there and you have changed my prospective for life …. 🙂 and i just wanted to ssy thanks
Love and hope to your family
LOVE: Ahley
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Silent strength is real and that one thing that I think is true cuz with out it no one would be able to listen to help and support others silent strength is somthing i would want to do every day like Chris did. your story has tuched my hart thank you for sharing it. Chris sounds like a sweet ,hartful, caring,loving,friend to have.:) I’ll hold that story forever
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This was really sad but thanks for visting Bluestone High School ! That really touch alot of people
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Hey thank you for sharing your story with us it was very sad, but it gave us strength and resolve for the future.
-Bluestone High School 12th grader
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Hi, I just came back from the assembly that you talked at and wow thank you so so so much. It was so powerful and sad and happy and I am so glad you decided to share. You thank us for listening? Thank you for the courage to tell us it. Have a wonderful day.
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Thank you so much for visiting Prospect Heights Middle School this past Wednesday. You were the best guest speaker that I have ever seen. Once again, thank you so much. You had me in tears the entire time.
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Thank you for coming to my school it was very sad . But you did a great job!!! Especially on the video. Chris must of been a good brother…!
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This is the most touching story in my entire life. Thank you for bringing Chris into my life! id like to pray for you if that would be OK. (I’m cring) I go to Ni River 6th grader: Eli Ellsworth) thank you for coming to my school. Plz come again soon! I will remember this my whole entire life until I pass.
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Thank you so much for coming to my school. I think that everyone enjoyed it so much. You and Chris are so inspiring, I will definitely take the pledge.
Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-Anne Clements
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Today at school your story touched me. I’m glad you took time to share Chris’ story with us. I know as for me and my friends today to shed a few tears. I’m glad I heard about Chris because in todays world I didnt think loving people like him existed. So tomorrow in honor of Chris I am wearing yellow as well as my wristband. Thank you so much for coming out and sharing your stoy!
•Student at Prospect Hights Middle School
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Thank you for coming to Prospect Heights middle school , you stories and chris really hit me in the heart . I know everyone in the school appreciated the speech . I take the pledge tomorrow…..and god bless
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hi my name is grace cooper i wanted to talk to you and thank you for coming to my school (prospect hights middle school)but the bell rang so i didnt get a chance to i wanted to say that i was verry inspired and i know how it feels to loose a brother, that happened to my family when i was about 3 years old i am now in seventh grade thank you soo much for coming to my school i really apretiate it it made me think diffrently about how to be kind and caring to everyone i meet so thank you.
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Hi we just had a assembly and I had to say it was the saddest thing i have ever seen. Chris must be an awesome brother to have. By the way our assembly was at middle school. My friends and I almost cried. Well, one friend did cry and I did the pledge thing in honor of CHRIS. Chris was strong enough to be nice to people for all his life. I don’t know if i could be strong enough to be nice to people for one day, but that is what I am going to try to do.
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Thank u for coming two my school prospect height middle school I enjoyed hearing ur story I’m inspired and I am gonna take the challenge and be kind to others
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I have told you while you were at my school today that I have a cousin like Chris. But anyway i am at Prospect Hights Middle School and everything you said was amazing and very touching and the video touched me the most of all. I loved hearing about Chris and everything else. Thank you for listening and my name is Hunter Jones. I would like for you to send me back a note or something. I will also ask to be your friend on facebook. And lastly i want to take the pledge tomorrow. Thank you and have a wonderful day. 🙂
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A big shout out from St. Charles UMYF! Thanks so much for coming to Pennington Gap and sharing your presentation with us. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed hearing you speak. I know that Chris and your dad are rejoicing in Heaven and Chris is walking with Jesus, literally! God bless you and your family! We look forward to seeing you again!!! Michelle Honeycutt
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It’s been a while since you visited my school Floyd County High School, but I just haven’t got around to leaving a comment. After you shared the story about your brother, I reevaluated my life. I came to realize that I was being a “bully.” You have changed my whole life, how I act towards people, and how people act towards me. THANK YOU SO MUCH. I will never forget it. God bless.
– Anonymous age 13
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Thank you so much for doing a presentation at our school today it really inspired me to be come a altistic teacher
I have a cousin how is like Chris but he has become abele to walk at the age of 12 he is now 16 and can talk but again loves to snuggle
I love u Chris thanks so much
God bless and let all be well
-Kathryn Durham
(I will wear the rist band proudly and always remember)
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The presentation you gave at my school was such an inspiration. Thank you so much for sharing your story. It really roughed my heart and made me a better person. I have been taking the pledge in honor of Chris everyday and it feels great! Thanks again!
-Kaitlyn
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You came to my school and had me thinking of your story the whole day, I was truley inspired and made me really think of my actions. The concept of being nice and not being a bully is much clearer now, you are changing minds (including mine) to be thankful, think postitive, and stop bullies. Thank you so much for your time! I really think this was important for everyone. Thanks again… although I was crying like a mad-man!!!!
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We will miss you Chris 🙂 .
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The presentation you gave at my school made me think hard about my actions. Thank you so much. It’s hard being nice. It’s hard to stop bullying. It’s hard to stop being the bully. But I think every time I remember what you said, stopping gets a little easier.
-EMS
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Hello my name is Logan and Graves from PJHS thank you for coming to our school you are the best of the best your story has inspired me and gotten me one step closer to God and one step closer to my social life you’re the best
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Hi,
You came to my school today (Powhatan Jr. High School) and I was so moved by your speech. It wasnt just “another boring bullying assembly”. I cried twice. Today my techer asked me what my favorite part of your speech was and I couldnt answer the question because I loved it all. Kids that act all tough and stuck up were even talking about how much they loved it! Chris was put in your family for a reason. God knew that you and your family could not only handle this but make something good from all this bad. Thank you for touching the hearts of many today including mine! Im up for the challenge! You and your family are truly incredible! Chris and Caryn are in Heaven know smiling down at you and thankng you for all you hard work!
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Your speech today about Chris and Luther and the girl in your neighborhood was very uplifting. I have never loved a assembly so much! Even though this comment probably won’t mean much I felt the need to write one. Tell your mom that she is one of the most strong women i have ever heard of. Chris is probably smiling down on you every day while he his cuddling with every person up there. I wish I could have come down from the bleachers at Powhatan Junior High School to give you a hug but I didn’t have the opportunity. So now I am sending you a virtual hug and your speech will always be in my mind. You were very lucky to know Chris and glad you could take your opportunity to know him to help other kids like us at PJHS. I wish you luck with all your future assemblies and don’t be so nervous you did wonderful!
-Taylor B.
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i don’t know if you remember me but im the girl that walked up to you today(Farah) .you really did a good job and you should come back and tell us more about Chris because its really interesting how people treat Chris and most importantly how Chris treats other which is extraordinary…all your family will be in my prays
-Farah
Pochahontas middle School
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You came to my school today, I am very moved with you speech. You did a wonderful job. Thank you!
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HEY YOU VISITED MY SCHOOL PJHS TODAY AND IT WAS VERY TOUCHING. YOU MADE MY DAY SO MUCH BETTER.
GOD BLESS YOU
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most butyifull speech ive ever herd
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hi i am from the Powhatan county junior high i really can connect to your story because i have a cousin with a similar problem it scares me but i think god answered my call and sent you to our school to give me hope that my cousin will still be able to smile at me for many more years. i will never forgot the lesson you taught me today thank you. -Ben Todd Bailey
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You visited MMS thank you for that presentation you did. It really touched me. You have made a big impact on me and my family.
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Today you visited Meadowlark Middle School. The presentation made a large impact on the way I treat people. I have said mean things to students before, and am not proud of it. But when I look down at my wristband, I see the message to treat others the way I want to be treated.The presentation would make a difference on anyone that took the time to listen.
Thank you!!!- CK North Carolina
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Thank you for speaking at MMS today. I’m sorry for your loss. You inspired my son, he was excited to tell me about the impact your brother had in the lives of many. He is taking the challenge to not speak negatively for at least a day and will be more concious with the words he speaks. You are creating a possitive ripple effect in the lives of these children!
Peace, Love, and light,
Meredith
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Hi,you came to my middle school today. I would just like to thank you for the inspirational stories. It really made me think. Again,thank you for all you have done..
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I was truly inspired by Chris’ story and I want to take the challenge. I will take the challenge Tuesday, September 30th, 2014. It might be hard with my brother though. 🙂 I thank you for coming to my school and talking to us about Chris’ struggles. I really enjoyed the the thought of someone like Chris and the things he did for other people. even thought he could talk and had the challenges he did. I thought it was a glorious time and I liked to hear about a little boy, that had many struggles and still managed to be kind and compassionate to everyone around him. Thanks!!!!
CB
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You moved us all to tears. I would have loved to have met Chris. I’ve realized my actions, and how much I needed the helping hand. I’ve been having a tough time and This really helped. Thank you for sharing your stories and Chris’s life. He sounded like a very sweet person. I wished I could have met him. – Makenzie Halabuk
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Hi, my name is Holly August and today you came to Page Middle School that’s next to the Gloucester High School and I am from of course Gloucester, VA. You’re speech motivated me to be happy everyday and look up to the lives that help and comfort other people that have problems. The whole time I was shocked at how much that presentation helped me. You made me laugh at a lot of points and the rest of the day I had a smile on my face, knowing that there are amazing people out in the world like Chris. I was talking to a lot of my friends and they said that your speech was so inspirational that it made them cry. I just wanted to say thank you for opening my eyes.
-Holly August
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Thank you so much for coming to my school this morning! When i heard about it being an anti bullying presentation, I thought it was going to be the same thing we see every year. But it wasnt, You were funny and sweet. Your presentation really made a difference in how i think. Chris seemed like he was a really kind hearted person, I wish I could have met him. During your presentation, I couldnt help but smile and laugh and cry. I wish I could have given you a hug but we had to go to lunch,thank you very much for coming to my school. Your presentation meant a lot to me. God bless your family.
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Thank you so much for sharing the program with my school. I shared Chris’ story with my family as soon as I got home, and they all thought it was amazing just like I had. I wish you and your family the best.
-Macey Cohn, Page Middle School
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Thank you for coming to our school, I really enjoyed the message you sent out It spoke to me, I will do the silent pledge. ~Silent Strength
-Aurora From Floyd County High School(:
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hi, i want to say thank you for sharing your story i know its hard to share mine i look up to you. thank you and your stories i like how real they where you didn’t just spout out facts you related made us laugh and kept me interested and through you your were at a very hard time you kept high. and also you where mistaken you didn’t have a helping hand YOU are the helping hand.
you, Chris and your family i say GOD BLESS
thankyou,
BECCA BLUEFIELD MIDDLE SCHOOL
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Mr Reavis,
Thanks for coming to my school today, and sharing your story. I’m not one that tends to cry and show emotions. But, today I cried. The story you had told us was so inspiring. Again thank you.
– Kara from Floyd County High School
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thank u for speaking with us i am taking PLEDGE:……………………………………………………..i wish i could have met chris he would have changed my life
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Thanks for coming to our school and sharing your story. It really made me think about how I should treat others.
-Anthony @ Floyd County High School
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It was an honor to hear your story, I think you really did a great job explaining the importance of kindness and respect to 8th grade students,
Aaron @ Floyd County High School
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Thanks for coming to Floyd and sharing about your brother. It really touched my heart and it makes me think different about i treat people. Thanks <3
-Madison
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I am so glad you came and talked to us.Thank you for sharing your inspiring story and slideshow. i cried when i saw the slideshow but in a good way. I really enjoyed it.
Clara Givens
Student @
Floyd County High School
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thanks for coming and sharing your story about your brother chris he is my hero silent-strength
your friend
dawson pennington
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I love your slideshow and had my sobbing I am sure most of the kids and in 6th grade with me were crying too. Your presentation was awesome!
I just wish you could come back and present it again! God bless you and your family. Have a great
life and never give up! You really inspired me in so many ways. I will not ever in a million years bully. Bullying is not something you should do.
-Kaitlyn Young 6th grader
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I loved it I was just trying to hold back tears thank you for coming to Bluefield Middle School it was amazing and inspirational and most of all so true if there were more people like Chris and not as much hatred in the world, It would be a better place very inspiring -Lillie Hartwell Bluefield Middle School #more kindness
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Thank you so much for coming. I’m going to try to be just like your brother Chris and be nice to other people. Even when I don’t truly know them.
Love Kimberley Davis
Blufield Middle School
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I love your presentation it was awesome for u to come and present it to BMS I was about to cry during the slideshow im sorry for your loss and Im happy for u in so many ways thanks for coming to our school
-Kaitlyn and Hailey <3
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Hi that story you told yesterday at BMS was something I think everyone at the school greatly NEEDED to here thanks for all you did and keep up the good work♥ 🙂
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I love your story. This is very inspirational. I was actually at Bluefield middle when you gave your presentation. I cried but also learned. I’m breonna and I have DEFINATLY learned a lot from you, this story, and especially chris!
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Hey you came to BMS today and I cried during the video it was very touching THANK YOU so much♥Sierra Mounts♥
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loved your presentation at blufield middle
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I love to see your oldest son happy he came to my school today. I can understand he was nervous and emotional about the loss of his brother but he was brave enough to come and talk at my school
god bless u and ur family
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Thank you for coming our school at Blue field Middle School,and I’m so sorry about Chris I bet he had a happy life and he is with god now
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I loved it 🙂 I’m just…wow…that video had me sobbing
You know your brother would be proud of you and of your family for doing this so thank you 🙂
~ BMS student Hannah McWilliams 🙂 🙂 🙂
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I will take the silent strength challenge in Chris’s honor.
Thank you for coming to our school,
Kylie
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I LOVE IT! AWESOME!
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Your message today spoke to me and so many of my colleagues. First, thank you for supporting us educators who truly do try to pull of eight peoples job in one day. Second, I think I got more from your presentation than any other anti bullying theme I’ve sat through. My students -my school will strive to take the challenge not just for one day but a year in Chris’s honor!
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Hey there. Chris Mishoe here. I introduced myself to you after your 8-10am talk this morning at our teacher training at Princeton HS. Your talk was awesome. Every student in every middle school should hear your message. Hopefully, I’ll talk to you soon.
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Hello, My name is Jennifer and I was privileged to see the presentation today at VOTEC. You have a very powerful message to deliver and I think God is pleased. You not only help others, you are keeping Chris’ memory alive. God Bless You All
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I cried while watching this video at your presentation. You truly inspired me and when I came up to meet you were so sweet! I know Chris is so proud of you, even if the past wasn’t so good, you have done more good than bad now and it is amazing what you do. I know that all of us at were crying, even if we didn’t look so. Thank you so much for everything 🙂 – Melissa, LMS Student
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I cried while I watched this video it is so heart warming and it really taught me a lesson even though I have never been a bully before and I don’t plan on it. Chris is the sweetest person I have heard of that ever loved I am glad he left earth with a sweet taste in his families mouth and anybody else that he has touched. HE IS MY HERO.
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Though not everyone cried physical tears, I’m sure they cried inside. You have truly inspired us. -LMS student
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Hi! This is Eve from Liberty Middle School. I know you’ve already gotten a lot of comment from this school but I thought your story was very inspirational to me and it really taught me a lesson about how I should treat people. I just thank you from coming to our school and telling us about Chris. 🙂 ♡
~ Eve
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Hi my name is Jaap Sarkaria and you came to Liberty Middle School to talk to us about Chris. All I have to say is thank you and I am so sorry for your loss. I’m pretty sure if I met Chris he would have been caring because he is a great and kind-hearted man. Once again thank you and I’m sure wherever Chris is right now he is happy and in the hands of someone loving.
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Even though I never knew Chris, I’m sure he was a great guy to be around. I wish I was in his shoes so that I could be just like him: loyal, caring, nice and I wish I met him. He would have changed me and not have let me do the wrong choices I have done in the past. Thanks for changing me, – Liberty Middle School
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Hi I’m dolly I go to liberty middle school your story about your brother Chris was really touching and inspiring. And made me understand that you don’t need to be able to speak to show your kindness to people. Your story touched my heart I hope this story will inspire many people thanks! <3 dolly ps god sent special children to special families
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I remember in 4th grade I used to be a bully to a lot of people. Occasionally I would stop and think and wonder why I’m doing those things. Than it hit me. I wanted to be popular! Because I had a friend this year who was my best friend. But than she started hanging out with this other girl. They became good friends and Me and her friendship faded away. I saw her response on the Silet Strength website and I was touched but also kinda jealous cuz I knew I would never be as nice and kind as her. Thank you for making me realize that. – Emily Herrity
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Hi this is Zoe from Liberty Middle School
I just want to say that your story about Chris
Is something I will never forget. I took the pledge
Today and doing nice things for people really do feel
Good. Chris must have been happy every single day
Because he has been so sweet to people without
Ever being negative. Thank you so much for inspiring me
To think about my negative actions before I do them.
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Today you visited Liberty Middle School, I just wanted to say that your story had really touched me. There are times when I think that personal challenges in my life are to hard to deal with. From now on when those thoughts come to me, I will try to remember Chris’s example. With all of his challenges and all he ever did was love everyone. I want to be more like Chris and no matter who you are be able to love and care for others. I will try to take the pledge. God bless you and your family- Brit
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Hi 🙂
My name is Emily Storie,
You visited Liberty Middle School and the speech you gave has touched my heart! Its breathtaking how one person can make such a big difference. So i promise to take the pledge! THANK YOU SO MUCH!
~EMILY <3~
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Hello. I am a 7th grader at Liberty Middle School, and saw your presentation today. Your story is truly inspiring, and I hope I will be able to act better to those I come across in my lifetime. I will remember the lessons I learned from you today for many years to come.
Thank you for sharing your story with us, you are an amazing person. I wished I could have spoken with you longer, but I wanted to give the other students a chance to meet you too. Maybe I will meet you again when I get into high school! -Julie Mai
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Hello, my name is Dawit Digafe and I am a Seventh grader. Today, you visited Liberty Middle School. I am so sorry what happened to Chris. He was such a good guy. Your story just got to me. thank you for coming I really enjoyed it.
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Hi I go to liberty (7th grader)
middle school and I just wanted to thank you. Your presentation was very inspiring and it actually made me cry! I am sorry about Chris, I didn’t know him but he sounds great. Thank you for talking today and I will definitely think about what I say before I say it. Thanks again for everything!
-Abigail Johnson-Firth
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“today my positive actions will speak louder than words. “
I’d like to thank you, for coming to Liberty. You truly have a gift and I really will take to heart this phrase. Rest in peace, Chris. PS you’re a great story teller!
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Hello I’m Zia Rahman and you visited my school LMS today on 4/23/2014. I think your story is amazing and it is even greater that you got to share. I hope you will continue to present this story and spread your story of joy…
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You visited Liberty middle school yesterday. I go there and I am an 8th grader. I understand what you went through as a child because I also have an older severely autistic brother. Your story really touched me and I guess I have been a really bad person to people because of what I deal with at home. I will always think twice before making fun of someone because of your story with the little girl. -Jelany
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Dear Chris and Chris’s family,

Hi, My name is Thomas Lamke, I was at liberty middle school and heard your presentation, It touched me in so many ways, it was a very good speech/presentation and very touching as well. Your speech has motivated me to be positive. I am hoping some time in the future I can try the 1 day no speech challenge. Chris must have been a wonderful person, and I would have loved to meet him. I wish there was more people as kind as Chris and your family in this world. You have contributed to this community by being a teacher, and presenting that wonderful speech and I appreciate that very much. I would love to take this moment to thank you for all you do and also thank chris. Thanks from the bottom of my heart

Your story is changing people in a positive way.
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Thank You for coming to my school (gate city middle) yesterday and thanks for the presentation about Chris he he seemed to be a very nice person .
THANKS!!!-Xander
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You came to my school today (gate city), when you told your story all I could do was cry! It really touched me and I was like you when you were young picking on people but when you told is about your brother loving everyone that he saw no matter who they were and you all bring friends with Luther it really touched me. You hoped at least one person would be affected by your speech, we’ll I was and I’m sure others were too! I apologized to the kids I’ve fine wrong to right after that I felt a huge weight be lifted after that! Thank you so much for opening my eyes to see how bad I’ve treated people never knowing would die.
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I really appreciated you coming to my school gate city middle and sharing your story about cris I thank I will try to work on improving myself in that way following that pledge:-)
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You came to my school and you made my day for inspiring me to do good stuff thank you!!! Seneca Ridge Student : Sammy Muhsen
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I was a Seneca Ridge Middle School sixth grader. It was an amazing speech. I don’t think my grade has ever been that quiet. I think it was the best speech I’ve ever heard. It was so uplifting and inspirational. My friend was crying really hard and so was I. Chris is such a great example to all of us. I can’t put into words how amazing it was. I think I can speak for many people who heard that speech that it changed our perspectives and definitely impacted us a lot. It made me, at least, want to try to be even half as great as Chris was. He truly is a powerful person.
Ayumi
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You have inspired all these people..and I am just one little comment that can’t Change anything but you hope in all these people that are inspired by you and Chris, words can say a lot but Chris never us words he didn’t have to to show how much he care about so many people REST IN PIECE CHRIS <3
By:
Brianna,Hilaya from Seneca ridge middle school
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This video inspired me and made me almost cry so much and he was a good guy and that I never met him before but the video inspired me and telling me that to all ways love and for all May The Lord bless your family and Chris.
By:Rachel M.
P.s I’m from Seneca Ridge MS the girl sitting in the back like on the right with my friend crying and I was crying too.
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You came to my school yesterday and by the end I was in tears but yet inspired.
from,
J.Ellis
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You came to my school yesterday and that was very amazing! God bless you!
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Thank you so much for coming to Seneca Ridge Middle School today. It meant a lot to all of us. I am a seventh grader there and can tell you that many of us were feeling both sorrowful and inspired by the end of your speech. I will definitely try to be more positive and kind to people from here on out. Thanks again for your speech!
A. Lilly
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Thank you so much for coming to my middle school today I usually do not get to emotional but the story of Chris and his legacy and you and your families bravery has given me a sense that we are on this earth too short to be mean and I don’t think I will ever be as good of a person as Chris but I plan to work towards it.
Thanks,
An 8th grader from seneca ridge middle school.
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Thank you for coming to the school Seneca ridge middle it was an awesome presentation. I wish I can see today. thx
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Thanks for coming to Seneca ridge Middle school today. This story made me realize that no matter what the person may look like or where they come from, they are all humans and every single human being has feelings. Before I say anything negative I look at what impact it may have on our lives, your story has truly inspired me! Thank you so much
From,
A 7th grade student at Seneca Ridge Middle School
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Wow,
Thank you so much for coming in to SRMS and talking about your life expeiriances and all that you know and love. I am a seventh grader and when you said that pledge i knew that i was going to follow that for a very, very long time and just today I was at an after school club and an underpriviledged boy was saying goodbye and i just stood and stared. Then he said it again and i thought “Man, why is this kid talking to me?” And i thought about that pledge and right after I turned around to say bye he was gon. But all I really wanted to say was thank you for being a great leader and influence,
Michael Carlo
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You have made my day
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Bless Chris and your whole family. Yes, trying to behave a whole day may seem difficult, but with some Hope, Strength, And Love, you can pull through anything. Im a student at Seneca Ridge Middle School and I just saw Doug’s presentation, It’s hart warming, sweet and I hope it teaches all a wonderful lesson. May God be with you Doug and your lovely family and I hope you all live a wonderful great happy life. – R.J. Scanlon Sterling Va
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I don’t know if anyone will bother to read this, but that doesn’t matter. I just want to thank you for coming to my school today and sharing cris’s story with us. I will NEVER forget it! Tomorrow in memory of Chris, I am going to try my hardest to live up to his ledgend. I hope I will be a strong and as kind as him one day. Thank you for sharing this with us!! Please come back to our school soon!
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You came and spoke at senneca ridge middle school and touched every ones life -TC Legends baseball team 3rd baseman Jackson turner
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I am a sixth grader from Seneca Ridge Middle School in Sterling, VA, and I promise there wasn’t a dry eye anywhere after the speech. it was funny, too, but more touching. I’m not the one to cry or get emotional, but I’m really glad your story had a happy ending. everyone says I’m mean to my little sister, but I never see it. this speech has really changed me. thank you so much.
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Thank you for the wonderful speech! I’m writing a articular on it in my school newspaper!

-Paige Thimmesch
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Hi I’m Mikey, I was at the performance today at Seneca Ridge Middle School. Your speech really moved my opinion on about everything in my life. still wearing my yellow wristband. You also inspired me to become a better person. I wish i could be like your brother and be kind to the world. like you said it is hard, but i will find a wayt. :). Thank You so much.
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the presentation at srms today was amazing. it trult made me want to become a better person.Thank you so much.
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Dear Doug,
Thank you for coming to Seneca and telling us about Chris it really let me know how bad bullying can be, and that even someone as small as me can make a difference. I’m going to email this to my family and friends and Skype to my contacts and post a picture on instagram, this is a story that needs to be told because he made a good difference. He truly is a hero
Emily
Student at Seneca
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Hey I am from seneca ridge middle school the story u told us today was wonderfull.i mean I really support u guys as a family. I put my self into ur place I mean u cant life like this I cant live without having funbwith my siblings. I mever knew that I was blessed with my siblings the ways they r. Dont be sad chris is in a better place then we r right now. If u r heaven u r atill taking care of ur family. Just pray for him and u will always feel like he is with u. Just be strong
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I’m doing this pledge in Chris’s honor A Seneca ridge student
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Thank you for coming to Emory & Henry. Your speech really inspired me to become a better person inside and out. Also the biggest thing i took from you was that no matter what happens to me in life, no matter what comes around to knock me down that i always have to get back up and keep moving. Your story is the most inspiring story that anyone has ever shared with me.
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You spoke tonight at Emory and Henry and I didn’t get the chance to come speak with you, so I want to begin by saying thank you. I don’t know if you’ll read this, but if you do I want you to know you really touched my heart. I want to major in Art Education, but my goal and dream is to pursue some kind of career through Walt Disney World Companies. The only thing I’ve ever wanted to do was to make people smile and somehow impact their day if only for a second. Tonight you made me realize I can. I want to still pursue both career paths, but maybe with a minor in Special Education. I also have thought about this many times before you came tonight, but I wanted to somehow find my way into the Disney Make A Wish Foundation program. Tonight you made realize I could. I could try. I hope that someday my dreams of these things will come true, but whatever I do that I could impact and touch as many hearts as you did tonight. Sorry for the random thoughts of a random college girl, but I appreciate and took everything you said to heart tonight. I think that God sat me in that Lyceum tonight for a very specific reason, and I cannot thank you or Him enough for the words you spoke. God Bless you all.
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i appreciated the presentation you gave to tes. just to let you know Chris will always be following you as a shadow and in your hart. i will always keep memories. that presentation was apsultally amazing. good bless you and your family. Chris really is a hero.i hope to see you another day.i know all the other school you will go to throughout the years will love ie too. you are very lucky you were not like chris or you would not be talking to schools throughout the years. you would be in heaven. but that is not a bad place to be. have fun teaching

Hay me and my family have done the pledge every night before we go to bed.
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thank you for coming to my school today and sharing your story!i actually think that your story can bless people it most defanley blessed me! And im sorry that your brother pass away! i can tell that you and him had a close relationship! i wish that i could have met him! By listening to your story today i relized that just because people look,sound,smell,talk, or dress different doesnt make them any less kool or specail they are just they same as us just with a different blessing in their life!! And by your sharing your story today tought us that any one can make a differince! you dont gotta be kool or popular to show people you care or make every one feel specail! Thank you for blessing us with your wonderful story! 🙂
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Dear,Doug Thank You for everything you have said.I,ve learned to respect others and never judge the book by the cover keep doin what your doin thank you. Sincerely, Dakota T.

Thank you for coming to the votec to talk to the alternative schools from Bluefield and Princeton. My mom works with people who have special needs and they are so inspiring and funny. My mom tells me stories all the time about funny things they do. It is very sad to hear that your brother has passed away but he is in a better place to where he can do everything that he wants to do because God will give him all the strength that he needs. Thank yo for sharing your inspiring story. I am definitely going to try and take the silent strength pledge.
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your story helped me.It helped to learn that people have feelings and we need to respect them and to also help people whos feelings who have been hurt . Also thank you for taking the time to speak to us you are veary funny you and your brother have eared my respct .I have people who have made fun of me and i always got in trouble for taking up for myself and you helped me learn that the people that have been mean to me wast worth tim getting in trouble. THANK YOU caitlyn mitchell princeton allternitive
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Thank you 4 comeing to our school becaus we neded a roll modale to tell us about bullying. The way you xpland it was funny,hartwarming,and,sweet. The way you talkde opend my eyes to help me because I make fun of a kid at my school.I love the way you song LADY it mad me lol.The peopel that make Fun of you are jelas that you have all ready turnd your life arond i wish I wood of did what you did it mad me fill so hapy that you cood have the stragth to git up in front of a scechy crod like us midul shcool like us the altinitiv school…Brie austin makey Backus PS im a boy
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Dear mr.reavis i really enjoyed your program.

Doug Reavis your story really inspired me. you and your friend going and talking to Luther, no matter how diffrent he was. It makes me wanna become a better person.
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Today, my positive actions will speak louder than all of my words. Silent Strength

my name is Dakota Thomas I really like the way you all use to takes care of him. He sound very nice and he would be a nice friend. I would like to meet him in heaven. I would like to talk to him. Doug thank you for coming to talk to us about your brother and those others stories. Thank you very very much and god bless your family!
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dear doug hey this is austin thompson that was a cool story i wish i could of met cris he would of been my best friend that story almost brout tears to my face im going to try the silent strength program in honor of cris thanks for sharing let his story go on just remember cris is in a better place i bet he can speak and walk up there thank you very much your friend austin thompson from pikeview middle wv.. 🙂
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thank you for comeing to wallace middle school and telling us about your story it was nice and think it inspired people too be nice to everyone matter who they are and be nice no matter what they look likeand how they are.
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Thank you so much for coming and talking to Wallace middle school! It affected everyone and it totally changed my perspective of how I treat people. So many kids were talking about it and saying how much it affected them as well as me!!! It wasn’t like one of those boring assembly’s, that was so much fun to listen to your story and now I’m using it in my life as well!!!!
Thank you so much!
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This is Alyssa Maiden. Im so thankful you came to Wallace middle school. God bless you. I will definitely be doing the pledge or at least trying.Thank you again for coming to our school! After hearing this story i want to try to help people to be nice to one another, think about my actions more often, and what I say too! I will tell as many people as possible about this website.Thank you again and I will definitely make another bracelet. Tell your mother i said happy birthday please and have a blessed day!!!
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Thanks go the touching story I will do the pledge every night for Chris – jasmine self and kaya Frish
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Thanks for coming and sharing that storie about your brother Chris. From: Wallace Middle School (Kaya Frish, and jasmine self)
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God bless you you came to my school Wallace Middle School it was touching im going to try that pledge whenever i can -Treyton Coates
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God bless your family:)
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Thank you for coming to walice middle school your story changed my way of acting.i hope everybody hears the story about Chris and about your life he is one of the toughfist guy I have heard of and may god bless your family 🙂
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This is Lilly and I just want to say god bless you and thank you I thought that the assembly was amazing today thank you for coming to Wallace Middle School today I learned a lot .
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This is Payton. You came to my school today, Wallace Middle. God bless you and your family. You all are in mine and my family’s prayers.
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this is Lydia from the school you went to today god bless yall and im sure chris loves and misses you.
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this is kayleigh thanks sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo much your awesome and strong and im keeping you in my prayers and trust me it gets easier. 6th grade EIS p.s. I still have the yellow rist band on right now at this second. that message also reminds me how thankful I am for everything I have thx
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thanks so much for coming to our school. my dad had a car accident and his whole left side of his body is paralyzed. he has no idea of hardly anything we say. He doesn’t even remember me. He even did heroin. so this ment a lot. I am still so sorry for your loss. I really really enjoyed listening to your message. Also you made it funny. I know this is tough for you , but trust me it gets easier as years go by. thanks for coming to our school. -kayleigh Bristow 6th grade EIS
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Chris will always be in a better place now I was In EIS once you gave the presentation Damarion Ball
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THANK YOU so much i was crying during that this morning. You and chris are amazing. I don’t know how you could do that. I thank you from the bottom of my heart ur an amazing man just like your brother! God Bless Chirs! Love Kaitlynn Woodard 6TH grade p.s i told you before you left the EIS that you touched my heart and you truly did and I told my mom about this and she was crying just like i was……. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SHARING ABOUT YOUSELF AND CHRIS AND IM GOING TO WEAR YELLOW TOMORROW FOR CHRIS BECAUSE OF HIS BIRTHDAY BEING TOMORROW!……… GOD BLESS YOU ALL!
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Thank you for coming to EIS today . We appreciate you talking about Chris today . May god continue to bless you & your family , Chris is in my prayers
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I was at the Essex intermediate school and I was the 6th & 5th graders.I was at the table closes to the stage you where at. I think you did a great job today Chris would be so proud to be your little brother
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Hi my name is Dyamin Braxton. Today you came to the Essex intermediate school. To talk to us about bulling. When you told us the story , it made me feel like I was that person and as if I was there. What you told me today January13,2014. Tomorrow I am going to go to school and make someone happy. What you told me today really touched my heart! From what I heard Chris sounds like a really great person. When you were telling us the story I just started crying , that was the most saddest thing I ever heard in my life. I really learned something fro that today. Hopefully you and your family have a great day, and god bless you!!!!
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Thank you for sharing at our school today you were very funny and heart-touching god bless you
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Hi my name is Jenna Davis from Tappahannock Elementary School. I loved the presentation. I am very sorry about Chris. I know my friends enjoyed it also. A lot of people i know cried for you since you didn’t cry. Some of them were my teacher Mrs.Winkler Devin Johnson, Mykiah Dotson, and Dario battle. Godbless you. 🙂
sincerly,Jenna Davis and the rest of Tappahannock Elementary School 4th grade

thank you so much for the presentation today i feel so great for what you taught today :-)gracie byrd
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Thank you telling the story about chris I love the pitchers you showed us. I love you all JADA
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Today we listened to your lesson. It really touched us all. We will take the pledge. We feel really bad about Chris. We hope your family is doing ok. From Sydney trent, Sydney Ross, Rodrigo Ayala, Peyton Potvin and Christopher Brooks.
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Today we listened to your lesson it really touched us all we feel your pain we are so sorry we will take the pleag. From EIS
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I used to think my life was bad but now it feels different. I know that other people went through alot way worse things then me.
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you coming to SMS realy acted a lot on me and my friends. So on Monday I will take the pledge and see if I can do what Chris did his hole life. THANK YOU FOR SHAREING!!!
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Thank you for coming to SMS! Your story was amazing and touching I almost cried! Please keep sharing this story about Chris and God bless you and your family
Sincerely,a 6th grader from SMS

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Thank you so much for coming to SMS and sharing your story with us. I know what its like to lose someone so dear to you and I wanna let you know that I would like to take the pledge. I know personally your speech about Chris was very touching not only to me but to others. so again thank you very much for coming and for the wristbands. your story was incredible and I wish I could meet Chris. he seemed incredible. God bless you and your family. 🙂 🙂 🙂
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You have blessed family. Spoke to my school today and changed my view on life. May Chris rest in peace he is in forever in our hearts. He is watching over us in heaven. God bless u
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God Bless You and Your Family. Amen.
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hi I’m one of the 7th graders at spotsy and I never got to come up and talk to you like I wanted to but I hope you know that you’re touching a lot of peoples lives, I’m definitely going to take the pledge because you and your brother Chris are such an inspiration and I really appreciate you taking the time out of your day and speaking to us and telling this story. I just lost my best friend to cancer and it was really hard because she was such a great person and so kind like Chris. I also lost my grandma when she got really sick. so I really liked hearing that someone would do this and be so kind. thank you so much and god bless
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I realy enjoyed the esembly today god bless Chris
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thank you so much for coming to my school today. (spotsy middle) you touched a lot of people’s heart, especially mine. im definitely going to try to do the silent strength pledge. this will always tell me to think positive & treat everyone the way you would like to be treated. thanks again.
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Thank you sooooooooooo much for coming to SMS your story was VERY TOUCHING!!! I almost cried. Chris seemed like a really nice, sweet, and helpful guy. I wish he was sitting next to me on the couch. May Chris rest in peace.
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Today, Silent Strength went to my school SMS, all I want to say is, thank you SOOO much! I was never bullied but I am shy. After hearing Chris story, my INTIRE point of view! Starting tomorrow, I’ll walk into school the true me, than you, and god bless you and your family! :3
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Thank you for coming to my school ( Spotsylvania Middle ) today and telling your story. I was deeply inspired. I will take the pledge from now on. Thank you, Student 🙂

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Hello my Name is Austin Romano and I’m 12. this story had a big impact on my life now I can finally see that it’s not right to be negative to others I been bullied all my life I made fun of some people for it because of how they look and everything and when Silent Strength came to talk to my school today I cried it changed my whole life and I learned it’s okay to be differnt than everyone else I’m changing my ways today I will be positive with my actions I will keep that pledge and maybe one everyone will too thank you for reading this. Sincerely, Austin Romano find me on Facebook too and on your Facebook website
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Thank You so much for the presentation at SMS. Chris was lucky to have you as a brother and it really touched me when you showed the slide show. He was one of the people that makes everyday special. I wish I could of met Chris in person or have him as my brother. I also loved your story when you were in high school. That was really sweet. It seems Chris was a great guy and a number of people in our school cried during the presentation. Although you may not of seen it, that was all we could talk about it today. I am really touched by Silent Strength. God bless you, your family, and Chris. Please keep spreading Chris’s story. I am positive that everyone will love his story.
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Today you presented at my school in spotsylvania county, and I as well as my friends were moved. Thank you for doing what you do, and please continue to.
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Today you spoke to my middle school (Spotsylvania Middle School)and I was so touched by your brother’s life story. I felt saddened that he past away and also I wish I could be as nice as he was. I am taking the pledge in honor of your brother and also in honor of who I can become. Sincerely Thomas Jones
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You came to spostylvania middle school (6th grader) !Thank you for comming! It was so nice of you ! I laughed when you talked about luther! Its so great finding a friend that makes you happy! CHRIS story made me cry in the inside but this message you gave us was a real life lesson ! I am taking the pleage to lead me to happienes THANK YOU
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Hello, I am one of the kids that was just at your assembly at SMS in Virginia. Your story is very emotional and I am very glad for what you are doing and I hope it keeps up
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Today you came into my middle school. I didn’t realize how you can say so little and ether hurt some one so much or it can make their whole life better. Thank You. I really needed it! 🙂
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I loved the presentation today. So inspiring. I wanna take the pledge. Also I think the story’s that were told at the presentation would make a life changing hartwarming movie 🙂
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Well yesterday you came to my school (Essex county) and I can honestly say your presentation made an major impact on my life! You made me realize life is more then just the material things! Your brother is beyond proud of you and your doings. Just want to say thank you so much and continue to do what your doing and God is going to continue to bless you and your family. Your brother maybe gone but do you know he is there w you in spirit; when your traveling the world telling your powerful story he’s there patting you on the back saying Job well done! Keep up the good work! Silent Strength and I will be participating in the pledge and as always your family is in my prayers
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I am truely sorry to hear about all the negative you have wenr through your brother is proud looking over you and your mom and dad and all. To the mom you are a very strong lady and I dont even know you and to the brother thanks for speaking with us on this it opens up people minds and that girl sees from heaven that u are sorry .. but where is ur other friend that got excited .. to the dad keep having popsicle time to keep your memories more alive ….. finally sorry I forgot names and messed up spelling but god bless you guys .
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Thank you for giving me a role model to look up to. I can only hope to impact somebodies life as much as he has. His story breathes life don’t stop telling it!!
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I was at the school you lectured to today on the front row crying I just want you to know that I really appreciate what your’re doing and I have special little sister and I hope one day she will be able to develop a heart as big as your brothers an thank you.
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Thank you so much for your courage! Today I believe you made a huge impact on my high school! Me and my best friend have been wanting to start a club sort of like your message. We want to encourage the younger kids to make good choices and not to judge kids by their “labels”. You story gave us a helping hand and newfound courage to see this group through. Thank you so much for sharing your brothers incredible life! He is a role model for us all and definitely a picture of Christ. May God bless you and your family.
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Thanks so much for the presentation today. It was very touching to me, and I’m sure to the other students as well. I’d like to take the pledge. 🙂
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Doug,

Hello, my name is jose a. I am a student from john hanson middle. Im in 6th grade. Thank you for coming on our fall festival. You are a true roll model. My aunt is like your brother. I love very much but she has problems. Some people call her cripple but i stand up for her. You are the same. You are a nice person who helps mold the world. You are an example of how a person should be.
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The lord will always be with your family God bless you:-)
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Thank you for coming to Rappahannock High School. I’m sorry that Chris passed away. I really liked hearing about Chris’s story and about how excited Luther was when he got the Kenny Roggers shirt. We are now on Thanksgiving Break, but when I go back to school. I’m going to take the pledge and try not to say or be mean in anyway. Silent Strength, can be the best type of strength at times.
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thx for sharing this AMAZING story with us and I really LOVED the assembly you did at my school it was sad and inspiring for my thank you once again
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Hey my name is casey roane and i attended the Rappahannock High School presentation today. Your story of your brother was touching and reminded me of how much i miss my brother. You brought many things to my attetention that not once in my life did i consider thinking about. I sincerely thank you for coming and presenting your story to us, i believe in a way it snuck its way into our hearts and gave us something to really think about the next time we make a decision, so once again i thank you for coming and i wish you the best in life.

Doug,
your presentation was very inspiring and I will always keep Chris in my mind and heart. I just want you to know that you are a blessing to us and to Chris. I also want to say that I know that Chris was a very special person and I adore him for that and if they’re more people like Chris the world would be a better place. I also wanted to thank you for coming to my school to share your story. I will keep your family and Chris in my mind and prayers.

Hi, I’m tori hanks 🙂 I don’t want to make this long but this is truly a blessing from god, Chris is the strongest guy I’ve ever heard of. Your family is very brave. Thank you for sharing this page. Chris was raise with/by an amazing family, so once again thank you so much! 🙂
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It was nice to tell us that about you little brother he saying you are the best big brother i ever had
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Thank you so much for coming to my School it changed life and i will always have chris in my heart. Hannah lam
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Thank you so much for coming to kate collins middle school. I enjoyed the story of chris! Again thanks for coming. i think the hole school enjoyed you and your storys!

Love,
Brietta Harrleson
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I just wanna say ur speech changed my life I will never take anything gor granted EVER thank u so much for sharing that story it changed our entire school around Thank You and God Bless ur heart. -Aliyah
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Thank you for coming to my school at Western Rockingham Middle today and telling us your story.

Thank you for coming to my school today. You showed a lot of courage to get in front of us and tell your story. Your a good man for changing your life and being a better person. You made me think about my actions before i do it than you.

your story inspired me to be a better person. Thank you for showing me the kind of person I need to become
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i am Makenze and i am an 8th grade at western rockingham middle school and i would like to thank you for coming to are school you really taught use to be kind and to think positive and be happy and dont bully so thanks so much!! you really inspired me to be a better person!!
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Hi my name is Sage I attended your presentation at Western Rockingham Middle School today and I think what you are doing is great. Thank you from me but also everyone who attended, you have really got our attention with your touching story!
– Sage
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im so sorry about your brother but i will chairish this story forever
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Hey well you guys came to my school today and ill tell you one thing that i learned is that Chris is in a better place and you guys will be with him in that place one day and you will live with him and in that place will be no sadness or shame or mean people, and there will be no pain in that place. You guys touched my heart today thank you

Thank you so much for coming to kate collins middle school. it touched my heart.i cryed and thanks for the hug because i got picked on a lot because my lip did not form all the way and i got picked on a lot and the thing you gave on 11/12/13 i think it touched alot of peoples hearts including mine

Love,
Brietta Harrelson
PS. I will always keep you and chris in my heart forever

Thank you for coming to our school, Kate Collins Middle School! I’ve been bullied A LOT! In 4th, 5th and 6th grade I have always been bullied (I’m still in 6th grade ) People always bullied me about how I dress and that I liked all the boys and stuff. They would call me ugly and mean things. I used to cut myself but not anymore. Your story inspired me. 🙂 I stopped cutting. What you said made a HUGE impact on me! I was crying!! No matter who the person is, what the person acts like or looks like shouldn’t matter. It’s good to be different and people shouldn’t be bullied for being different. Everyone is different. I wish bullying never existed! Thank you for coming to our school! When ever I’m being bullied I’ll just be nice to the bullies and not be mean 🙂 Because being mean back to the bullies will just make the problem worse! Thank you for sharing this story with us it really did make a Huge huge huge impact on me! I feel bad about the kids I used to bully. But this one time in 5th grade I was best friends with this girl who had problems… Whenever people were mean to her I would always stand up for her no matter what. Even if the person is my other best friend or my crush. I don’t care if their mean to me but when their mean to her I always stand up for her and never let her get bullied! 🙂 Anyways thank you for coming to our school! Thank you, thank you, thank you SOOOOO much!!!!!!!

I take the pledge for life thank you for coming and talking to our school.
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Thank you for coming to Kate Collins Middle School yesterday! My son told me about the presentation almost word for word. Then I looked up your website and we read and watched together. He has been bullied and your stories touched him. Thank you for what you do!

hi this is ethan and i will take the pledge. from kate collins
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Hi this is Millineum . You came to.my school today kate collins middle school. i really liked the words you shared with us today. It touch a few hearts but really grabed my attention. Thanks so much 🙂
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Thank you for coming to Kate Collins Middle School today. Even after you presented, everyone was talking about it and the impact your story made. We all learned a lot. From the myself and everyone else, thank you.
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Hi this Tye whose all so at Kate Collins today in 6th grade I was the one on the right in the Carolina sweat shirt. That story had me crying and it inspired me so I told my family and we pledge
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HI I’m Ashante you came to my school today (Kate Collins Middle School) you inspired me so much that I told my family and now we are all getting T-Shirts so Thank You for being such an inspiration on us all you are a really loving person I wish I had the guts to do that for my cousin but I just wanted you to know you really make a difference in some peoples life you sure did have me in tears Thank You for being such a wonderful role model you will never be forgotten

thank you for coming to kate collins middle school the presentation on chris really touched me and i will tell the story of chris and im going to take time and do the pledge. it was a very powerful presentation. thank you. chris is now in a better place:) <3

Thank you so much for coming!!!!! We all loved you so much. I don’t ever think I will take the bracelet off. Everybody was crying!!! I help special needs kids but I didn’t know it meant so much. Thank you so much, God bless you!!!!!

Thank you for coming to Kate Collins middle school that really touched me and that video of Chris made me cry because to see a child that’s so sweet with a problem so bad that’s so sad but you really touched my heart thank you. And I will take the Silent Strength Pledge in honor of Chris.

Your story is letting me see how much I do things other people dont get to do this story helped my life so much.hl
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Hello, my name is Lily, today, someone came to my school, Kate Collins Middle School, and told Chris’s story. I cried. During the assembly a lot of people cried. I’m so happy and I will gladly spend time taking the pledge. So thank you for telling me this story. I will definitely tell people about Chris. And how he lived. <3 lots of love, Lily 😀
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The speech you gave us today was powerful, and I’m going to start helping the disabled. From the 8th graders at Kate Collins…
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Thank you for coming to our school today at Kate Collins middle school I actually have a autistic cousin named Jacob he means every thing to me I know your heart broke down wen your brother passed but I just wanted to tell you thank you for Sharon your story -zachary scott-
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I really loved the program it was wonderful, it was AMAZING to me, it made me emotional, I really loved it. I also bet if the girl you pick on was still here, and she was heard that sohe would be glad to hear that. You were wonderful at our school.

This changed my life a lot I loved the presataion it just changed me and my persalanity.

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Thank you so much for coming to speak at smarts mill. Your story touched me a lot and made me realize that I take what I can do for granted. One day when I am ready I will the the silent strength pledge and make somebody’s day better. I really would have liked to meet Chris he sounded like a very nice guy. Once again thank you for coming to speak to us you truly changed my life.

Thank you so much for teaching at my school for the smarts mill mavericks I really enjoyed it made me think your words are like a effect a ripple effect and each word can carry on in a bad way or good way but any other way THANKS!

Hey you talked to my school on Friday smms mavericks it’s richard d. Your a inspartional amazing man your a truly strong man!
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You came to my school yesterday, and told a very touching story. I’m so glad you told it to us, because now I put on a new perspective on how to way I act. I wish that I had was as positive as Chris! You and your family, has truly made an impact at everybody at my school. Thanks you so much!

Hi, Thank you for coming to Smart’s Mill Middle School. It was beautiful and inspirational. I wish everyone would think like he did. If everyone took the pledge for at least one day the world would be tremendously better.

I would like to thank you for comeing to Smart’s Mill Middle School yesterday. I really enjoyed your presentation. What you said helped me realize that strenght comes in many different forms and that we can show our own strenght through our actions.

Hello! This is Lauren Lewchuk from Smarts Mill Middle school. Chris’s story really changed the way I think. He is a hero sent by god, and even though I didnt know him, he sure did inspire me. – Lauren Lewchuk
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Hi I go to smarts mill middle school and u talked to us. I was so touched by what you said that I told my mom and she is telling all of her friends about and eventually it will spread around. You have changed my life in one speech than our pasture would’ve in three sermons. Thank you so much and I hope my positive actions will speak louder than my positive words. -Natalie
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Hi I’m a sixth grader at Smarts Mill Middle School. You spoke to my class today and Chris’s story really touched me. In your speech you said the most powerful person in your life was Chris. You also said he was your hero. But I would like to change what you said. He is not only your hero. He is also my hero. 🙂
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I just saw your presentation, and it proved to me that you and your family are extraordinary. The thing that I admired was that you were honest, most people wouldnt admit that they bullied other children in their younger years. Let me say that I admire how you see the beauty in others, despite what they are restricted of. You focus on what people can do and what they are vs. what they can’t do and what they aren’t. You are an innovator, and you left a mark on me and the other 1,500 students in our school. You are what will make our world a better place for those who are bullied and who have disabilities.

My name is Keeton Bostic from Council High. I just want to say your speech was very insparational to me and every other student and what you are doing is very nice keep up the great work. Have a blessed day
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I am a kid name dustin looney at grundy high school. man that presentation about brought me into tears.. I am so sorry for your lose.. he sounds like a great guy that had a big heart for everyone.. Take care. And god bless u and your family.
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What a wonderful speech that was given today at the Buchanan Vocational School… I hope you can keep on impacting lives of many people. I have found myself sharing your story with everyone I have came into contact with today!!

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As a teacher for 20+ years at Grundy High School, haven’t seen a speaker who has made such an impact on our students in quite a while. It was the “topic “of the day. Such difficult memories to relive, but yes, Chris IS making (still yet) a difference in people’s lives. Thank you for sharing.
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My youngest grandaughter came home today from school and was talking about a program that was presented at Galax Elem. School this afternoon. She was so touched with the program and came home and showed me this page. I was shocked to find out it was the Chris that I know and love.

I first met Chris when I was transfered from Woodlawn School to Gladeville Elem. I was an aid in the classroom with Chris and soon found that he was a very special young man. He loved to get on the computer and use the switches to play music. Although he couldn’t speak he was very vocal. I always called him chris so fer. He would look at me and just grin. He went through a lot of health problems during this time but he always had the strength to pull through.

It breaks my heart to know he is gone. I did not know about it or I would have sent flowers or something. I am so sorry for you loss and I know you miss him every day. Just know that he was loved by many who came into contact with him and is still touching lives.

God bless you all and the best of luck with your program Silent Strength. Chris will live on forever and make a difference in lives of others.

Sincerely,
Diane J Brown
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I’ve known all of you boys since you were born. I can still see little Doug and his beautiful blonde hair running around my parents’ house in Annapolis, and “Mikey’s” curly hair and devilish smile – always something going on in that little brain. And of course Chris. He was such a beautiful child. He worked so hard through all of his therapies, he was such a trooper. All he wanted to do was to please his family – whatever they wanted him to do, Chris would do his best to accomplish.

With his parents, Chris attended all the reunions at our home in Annapolis. My mother was particularly fond of him. She loved to sit and chat with him, and gaze into his beautiful eyes. She always knew that Chris was someone very special, that someone was “in there”, and she wanted so much to connect with him. She would be particularly saddened with Chris’s passing. But I know she’s found Chris in Heaven and they’re now having a wonderful time together.

I’m so saddened by Chris’s his death, but also know that he had a loving, caring family who did everything posssible to make his quality of life the best it could be.

My heart goes out to everyone with challenged family members. It takes such dedication to live with a totally dependent family member. But with the grace of God, and the kind hearts of others, you somehow find the strength to manage.

I love you all.

Joanne “Aunt Jones” Beck
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Chris was an amazing energy source of love, both giving and receiving. He is part of a wonderful loving family and gave them the gift of reaching for the best in themselves. Sue and Ted I know you are in a sea of grief but your journey with Chris was beautiful.

Anita
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This confirms to me how important our families are to us. We draw strength from each other to get through really trying times in our life. God has been convicting me of my tongue & how things that I say can really hurt people. I ask God to use me to be a blessing to someone everyday and he blesses me with your words of strength & the love that you all had for Chris. I am truly sorry for your loss & pray that God will heal your broken heart & strengthen you all!
You’re in my prayer!
Debra Webb
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Amazing story. Thank you so much for sharing it. I pledge to keep Silent Strength and Chris’s name alive.
Thank you again
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Thanks for reminding me – I really do talk too much. This is a wonderful way to honor his life. And so without anymore chatter I will start to practice “silent strength.”
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My brother Tim was our gift from God. He was the youngest of nine, who never spoke a word, but taught us unconditional love every day. Mike, God Bless your parents and your family, I know you miss Chris, but you helped make his life the best too!!! It’s funny how the meek can be the best!!!

Mary Beth Creasy
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Chris was an inspiration to all of us at the IDC! He was loved by all the individuals and staff. One of my favorite memoories is watching Chris and another individual together. She would sit beside him, put her forhead to his and stroke his face…pure love…Susan C.
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My favorite memory of Chris is when I was visiting his home and he would crawl up on the couch and snuggle up next to me. He was so loving and affectionate. My other favorite memory of Chris is when his mom would talk to him and he would look very closely into her face and break into that sweet adoring smile. There was so much love between them.

Chris is now smiling in the arms of the Lord. We are thankful to have known him and he will be dearly missed. Love, Aunt Sue
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Hello with deep sympathy for your loss,I never knew you guys but just looking at your family portraits and times that was shared with other viewers it displayed a great love for family and (Chris).May god forever shed warmth and inspiration to your life as parents,brothers and family as a hold.Piece & Blessings to you,

Mark Fitzgerald a Wall Residence Provider
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I would like to take this time to express my condolences to Chris’family. The family picture shows that Chris had a family that loved and supported him. Keep his memories forever in your hearts and trust in God to see you through this difficult time in your lives. May God Bless.

Kem White
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It is a miracle how our children have touched so many people and changed lives. We lost our Renee’ 2 years ago Feb. 18. I am so sorry for your loss, but things like this tribute help people remember the wonderful things they did in their lives. Renee’ always made you smile. Im sure Chris and Renee’ are smiling on us today.

Karen Brown
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I did not get the opportunity to know Chris personally, but I am inspired by Sue and Ted and their commitment to providing the opportunity for Chris to experience “a life like ours”. I am happy to take this pledge in honor of Chris’ life. My thoughts and prayers are with all of the family during this time, and I am happy to honor Chris’ memory with this pledge today.

Kamala Bauers
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I didn’t know Chris but I just want to tell his parents and family how sorry I am for your loss and to thank them for all the love and care they gave to their son. His story is a blessing to me and, I’m sure, many other people. You’re family picture is beautiful and I can tell that Chris was surrounded by people who truly loved him.
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I am both honored and humbled to have known Chris and (later) his wonderful family. You have brought the same grace, honesty and just pure true love to share with us in his passing that you & he shared with all who came into your lives in so many ways in his lifetime. This pledge is such a wonderful way to honor a beautiful, pure life. Much love and prayers with you in your sorrow and a hope that your hearts may always be lifted lightly with beautiful memories of smiles from Chris’ unconditional love.

Suzi
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