You can post anonymously or publicly, but we'd like to hear your personal stories about bullying.
Have you ever been bullied? How has it affected your life? What did you do to make it through those dark times? How did "it get better" later in life?
Don't be scared or ashamed to share your story, there are thousands of young adults and children who are experiencing what you did right now! Your story can make a difference and give hope where there may be none.
Speak up, break the silence, and help us break down hate!
I was bullied all through school. It began in middle school when I didn't hit a growth spurt like every one else. I have always been extremely short and petite, and that singled me out as "different." I have also always been a tom-boy. I played multiple sports, and preferred to hang out with the boys at recess. This preference for basketball over dolls and crushes caused the other girls in my class to bully me. I was picked on because of the way I dressed, my hair styles, my habits, my eyes being too big (they called me "fish eyes").
ReplyDeleteWhen I would walk by the girls at lunch, they would trip me or push me, causing me to fall. I can remember the humiliation and shame that burned through my face everyday at lunch. If I wore make-up I was ridiculed, and made to feel unattractive. I didn't go to school a lot or I kept to myself. But there were several things that saved me. I would always play basketball with the boys at lunch. Basketball was my world, it kept me sane and allowed me to express myself.
I know a little short girl playing ball? I was good at it, I could shoot and it was impossible to stay on me when I was on offense.
These moments always gave me hope. I don't know how I dealt with the bullying then, but I know that it instilled compassion and empathy in me. Now as an adult I try not to judge people, I also relate to people from all walks of life who are bullied for their beliefs, gender, or sexuality.
It does get better, life does go on. You will grow up, and make your own social ties. You will learn that not all people are insecure and mean. You will realize that those bullies won't be a part of your life after high school. They won't matter anymore. Your heart and soul are what matters. Your life, feelings, beliefs will find other people to connect with. There are millions of people in this world, and not all of them are bullies. In fact, only a few are. While the rest of us are waiting with open arms to meet you, love you, and accept you. It gets better, just keep doing what you love. Don't be afraid to confide in your parents, or other adult figures in your life. True, they may not always do what you want them to do, but they should be aware of what's going on in your life. You will make it through and you will grow into a beautiful person, just stay strong.
I was often bullied as a kid. I went to a "christian" high school, where being poor meant getting bullied. I was picked on for my clothes and shoes. I often skipped school without telling my parents why. I hated going to school everyday where the boys "ragged" on the easy targets. I was made to feel ugly and worthless. There were days when I felt like I didn't have a friend in the world.
ReplyDeleteBut one day, I graduated from high school and went off to college. After coming to college, I realized that those people didn't matter anymore. I met a lot of different people in the dorms, and I was accepted for who I am. I learned to love life, and to laugh.
I know the days of high school can be tough, but you can get through them. I wished now that I had spoken up, and out against those students. Because no one deserves to be treated the way I was in school. I know for a fact that it gets better, and in a couple of years you won't remember their names, much less their faces. Be you and know that you are loved.