Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/301854
106 When I was in 8th grade I started having a lot of problems with my friends. I did not want to deal with it and definitely did not want to go to school. Your son once told me "You know man, I have NO idea what you're going through, but stop letting these people get to you and just be yourself. Who cares what they think." I have lived in Chicago for about a year now and go to college up here. Because of my lack of communication with my old friends today was the first I heard of what happened. It hit me like a ton of bricks. I had hardly been in contact with him at all since 8th grade and don't even remember the last time I saw him. My point is, there was a time in my life where I came very close to committing suicide be- tween personal issues and family issues. It was people like your son that said things like he did that day that kept me from doing it. I am a very happy now and very fortunate to have had a friend or two like your son. Regardless if he knew it or not, your son changed my life. And now to see what has happened, it has gotten me thinking even more about it. It is very sad to hear what has happened to such a good person. They say everyone is put on this earth for a reason. If I know anything about Bryant it is that a lot of people loved him, and if he could change someones life that he barely knew or spent time with, I can only imagine how many lives he has touched. I wish I would have heard about this sooner. I would have liked to be there for the funeral. Your son was an amazing person and I didn't even know him that well. The way he lived his life changed me, and now they way he has passed has changed me. I hope this doesn't upset you at all I only wanted to state how truly amazing you did at raising him and that if there is anything you need to let me know. — Anonymous writer