Wikimedia CommonsThe response to Keaton Jones’ video about bullying has been phenomenal, with numerous celebrities coming forward to offer support to the bullied youngster.
Now Canadian popstar Justin Bieber has offered his friendship to the schoolboy, who tearfully spoke about how bullies made fun of his appearance and poured milk over him.
Justin has spoken kindly about Keaton’s ‘compassion’ and praised how he is continuing to care for others despite his problems.
On his 94 million strong Instagram page, the world famous singer recorded a touching video message to Keaton.
In the black and white footage, which was viewed almost 2.7 million times over the course of just eight hours, Justin said:
The fact that he still has the sympathy and compassion for other people when he is going through it himself is a testament to who he is.
This kid is all time, he is a legend. Go check him out, his name’s Keaton.
Justin also shared Keaton’s video over his Instagram page, with the sweet caption: ‘You got a friend in me Lil bro! Hit me on dm and we can chat!!! Love you buddy!!’
Justin’s many fans were also sharing the love on the comment section, clearly proud of their musical hero for standing up to bullying.
One person said: ‘This little boy is a hero, he is cool, he is not strange or anything. He is just a overwhelming human being. Hope he will see many many beautiful things in his live, will be loved from many people and hope he will find his own great self-confidence. Justin? This is what makes you being a great boy’.
Justin isn’t the only famous friend Keaton has made since his video went viral. Snoop Dogg has promised Keaton he will be his ‘friend for life’, wisely advising him how ‘love is the only way to beat hate’.
This is particularly touching after Keaton admitted he felt he did not have any friends, after the victimisation he had received at the hands of cruel bullies.
Hopefully the love which is being sent his way will make him realise there are many kind and genuine people in the world who would love to be his friend.
As a dad, the #KeatonJones video gives me two powerful thoughts:
First, the feeling of pain & anger I would feel if some kid was tormenting my boy.
Second, please let me know if my kids EVER do this to someone else.
— Matt Lewis (@mattklewis) December 11, 2017
People from all over the world have been touched by Keaton’s story, and have admired the bravery he has showed by sharing his message.
Showing a maturity beyond his years, Keaton asked the following heartfelt question in the video, which has received over 22 million views:
Just out of curiosity, why do they bully?
What’s the point of it? Why do they find joy in taking innocent people and find a way to be mean to them? It’s not OK.
People that are different don’t need to be criticised about it. It’s not their fault. If you are made fun of, just don’t let it bother you.
This touched my heart bullying is not okay it'll be alright little dude keep your head up stay strong don't let them Knock You Down
Posted by Misty Walton on Monday, 11 December 2017
Its great to see people coming forward to let Keaton know he is not alone. Bullying should not be tolerated and I know many of us have been able to relate to Keaton’s plight at one time or another.
Keaton, things can and do get better and you are much stronger than you think you are. And I’m sure those bullies feel very ashamed of themselves right now…
If you have been affected by this story or need to talk to someone in confidence call Childline free on 0800 1111.
Jules studied English Literature with Creative Writing at Lancaster University before earning her masters in International Relations at Leiden University in The Netherlands (Hoi!). She then trained as a journalist through News Associates in Manchester. Jules has previously worked as a mental health blogger, copywriter and freelancer for various publications.