As I stood around the lit candles in the crisp school parking lot on October 28, I mourned the death of a fellow classmate, Jacob Becker. Becker was known to light up a room whenever he walked in, graced students’ ears with his beautiful singing voice, and cheered up the hearts of his dear friends. I had never met him before, but I can tell by the warm comments of his friends and family that he was an extraordinary soul who lost his life far too soon.

Becker unfortunately passed away on October 27. This was a wake-up call to a lot of students, opening their eyes to the true dangers that bullying can cause. This past Friday a candle lighting vigil was held at the high school at 8 pm to remember the good times they had with Becker. Friends, family, and students came to show their support. The ceremony consisted of sharing memories, praying, and inevitably crying. The community came together to help one another and to honor Becker.

Autumn Cobb, a junior at East Noble and close friend of Becker, honored him by saying that “he could make anyone’s day.” Cobb remembers when he performed a solo in her choir class and “blew everyone away” with his profound singing voice and incredible talent.

If you or anyone you know is in trouble, don’t hesitate to call the national suicide hotline at 1-800-273-8255, which is open 24 hours a day. Let this tragic event be the last of its kind, and together, we can end bullying and suicide and create a better world.