How to Overcome Bullying and Find Purpose

TL;DR

Justin Wren shares his journey from being a bullied child to becoming a successful MMA fighter and humanitarian. He emphasizes the importance of speaking out against bullying, finding a passion, and using personal struggles to fuel positive change. Wren's work with the Pygmies in the Congo showcases his commitment to empowering the oppressed and providing clean water and resources.

Transcript

a hundred and sixty thousand kids in the United States alone skip school every day because of bullying that's three million school days lost every month as clinically diagnosed a depression because I grew up getting very heavily bullied you know I set a thorn table by myself pelted in the back of the head with chocolate milk spit wads or food or fi... Read More

Key Insights

• Bullying affects 160,000 kids daily in the U.S., causing them to skip school.
• Justin Wren was heavily bullied as a child, leading to depression and suicidal thoughts.
• Wren found solace and confidence through wrestling and MMA, transforming his life.
• A vision led Wren to the Congo, where he helped free enslaved Pygmies and provide clean water.
• Wren founded 'Fight For the Forgotten' to empower the voiceless and combat the water crisis.
• He emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and using personal pain for greater good.
• Wren's story highlights the power of community and collaboration in achieving lasting change.
• Living to love others first leads to a fulfilling life, as demonstrated by Wren's journey.

Questions & Answers

Q: How can bullying affect a child's life?

Bullying can have severe effects on a child's life, leading to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. It can cause children to skip school, impacting their education and social development. Justin Wren's experience shows that bullying can lead to a lack of confidence and self-worth, but finding a passion and speaking out can help overcome these challenges.

Q: What steps can a child take if they are being bullied?

If a child is being bullied, it's crucial for them to speak out and tell someone they trust, such as a parent, teacher, or coach. If the first person doesn't listen, they should continue reaching out until they find someone who does. Finding a supportive community and engaging in activities that build confidence, like sports or arts, can also help.

Q: How did Justin Wren's vision lead him to the Congo?

Justin Wren had a vivid vision where he saw himself in the rainforest, encountering a community of people who were poor, sick, and enslaved. This vision led him to the Congo, where he discovered the plight of the Pygmies. Inspired by this experience, he committed to helping them gain freedom and access to essential resources like clean water.

Q: What is 'Fight For the Forgotten'?

'Fight For the Forgotten' is a nonprofit organization founded by Justin Wren. It aims to empower the voiceless, including the Pygmies in the Congo and bullied children worldwide. The organization focuses on providing clean water, sustainable farming, and education, helping communities improve their quality of life and gain independence.

Q: How does Justin Wren use his MMA career to support his humanitarian work?

Justin Wren uses his platform as an MMA fighter to raise awareness and funds for his humanitarian efforts. He donates his fight winnings to support 'Fight For the Forgotten,' helping provide resources like clean water and education to communities in need. His fights are driven by a purpose greater than personal success, focusing on making a positive impact.

Q: What role does vulnerability play in personal growth according to Justin Wren?

Vulnerability is a gateway to personal growth and fulfillment, according to Justin Wren. By being open about his struggles with bullying and addiction, Wren has been able to connect with others and inspire change. Embracing vulnerability allows individuals to use their pain as motivation to help others and find a deeper purpose in life.

Q: Why is community important in creating lasting change?

Community is crucial for creating lasting change because it allows for collaboration, support, and shared resources. Justin Wren's work with the Pygmies in the Congo demonstrates that when people come together, they can achieve significant goals like securing land and clean water. The Swahili proverb Wren cites, 'If you want to go far, go together,' underscores this principle.

Q: What advice does Justin Wren give for living a fulfilling life?

Justin Wren advises living to love others as a pathway to a fulfilling life. By focusing on serving and helping others, individuals can find purpose and joy. Wren's journey illustrates that when we prioritize compassion and community, we not only improve the lives of others but also enrich our own lives with meaning and satisfaction.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Justin Wren's childhood was marked by severe bullying, leading to depression and a lack of confidence. He found an outlet in wrestling and MMA, which transformed his life. Wren later had a vision that led him to the Congo, where he helped free enslaved Pygmies and provide clean water, founding 'Fight For the Forgotten' to continue empowering the voiceless.

• Wren's journey underscores the importance of speaking out against bullying and finding a passion to drive personal change. His work in the Congo highlights the impact of collaboration and community in creating lasting change, as he helped provide land, water, and resources to the Pygmies, significantly improving their quality of life.

• Through his experiences, Wren emphasizes vulnerability, using personal pain for positive change, and living to love others as key elements of a fulfilling life. His story demonstrates that overcoming personal struggles can lead to a greater purpose, inspiring others to take action and make a difference in their communities and beyond.