Students are bullied everyday. It happens on school buses, outside and inside schools, in hallways, and through the various social media. How? Through small, but painful digs, name calling, insults, a nudge here, a push there, a sneer of disgust or rolling of eyes are just some of the ways many young people spend their days.  I also see students who are quietly given the message that they’ re not wanted. These students are ignored. They are always left out. They are not cool and do not fit in.  Bullying can take so many forms, and can fly under an adult’s radar too easily.

Bullies take their victims’ self esteem and shred it to pieces. Some bullies do it openly and others are sly and manipulative. I was bullied in school. When you are tormented by a bully, you can feel powerless. I clearly remember my feelings of despair. I remember trying to hold onto a scrap of self-worth and hiding my pain until I at least arrived at home. I often say that it was the worst time of my life, and it was! However, I made myself stand back up and go back. I could not let them win. This is an incredibly important message because giving up on hope can have devastating consequences. If you are being bullied, let someone know. Your feelings are important and as your teacher, I want to help you. Hang in there because it will get better.

“Some of the most interesting adults I know had a difficult time in school. As a result, they are more introspective, have more empathy, and are more self-aware.”

 Share your stories about a time when you were bullied or maybe when you were a bully. You may even share something that is happening now. I believe that by sharing our stories that we can help each other and work towards a future that is more understanding and tolerant of our individual differences. Let’s help build each other up and not tear one another down.