The bullies won again.

Another child is dead.

A colorful boy, full of life and love and potential for greatness.

Dead.

Snuffed out.

Game over.

The bullies won again.

His name was Jamel Myles. He was 9 years old. He had just come out as gay to his mom. Or at 9, is it still “mommy”? I think it probably is.

Her first words back to him were, “I still love you”.

Man, does that sound like Jesus to me. Haven’t you received that response before?

“I still love you”.

This love empowered him and made him whole again. Melted his shame and reminded him of his worth. He was proud of himself, and who he was. He was courageous, and bold and thought his friends would be happy for him to live openly and freely as he was.

A happy, uncloseted gay kid.

He overestimated them. It cost him his life.

What has tormented me this morning is seeing debate on the Facebook over Jamel.

This is a dead child, and we are debating his sexuality? We are judging his mother for showing him love?

My God.

His name was Jamel Myles, and he was 9 years old. He is dead.

Jamel Myles should never be open for debate. There is no debating a dead child. It is a time for mourning. Leave this boy alone, and mourn with those who are mourning, and if you find you must debate, take it inward and upward.

God awaits your honest questions but prepare your heart to receive the answers.

Those who have ears, let them hear.

Those who have judgmental mouths and fingers, let them be stilled.

In the name of Jesus.

Love (and sorrow), Val