06/29/2024
AGE 15 to 45 -- YOU CAN'T SEE THEM BUT THEY'RE THERE.
I was a young teenager when I learned what cruelty looked like, how it felt to be the target of someone's unkindness. High school was my battlefield, and I was often on the losing side.
The taunts, the exclusion, whispers behind my back—they were relentless. My scars were invisible to the eye, but I can assure you they were deeply etched onto my soul.
Time granted me resilience and wisdom. The lessons of my high school days shaped me, and those memories, both painful and profound, are a part of who I am.
While the scars remain 30 years later, they certainly don't define me. They do however, fuel my determination to ensure anyone entering my environment (work, social gatherings, etc.) feels welcome, included, and valued. It's a small way to counteract the isolation I once felt, where kindness is the norm rather than the exception.
My reason for this post is because mean girls (and boys) are still thriving in high schools today. I hear these stories all too often and it hits harder than I'd like to admit. I feel a compulsion to protect the victims from the pain I know too well. We can forgive, but we can't forget.
Parents, it's crucial to teach your teenage sons and daughters the importance of kindness. I'm sure they've heard you say it a dozen times as they were growing up, but you need to go much deeper at this age. This should not be a light-hearted conversation. They watch us more than they listen to us so it is imperative to be a constant role model in this department.
The way your kids treat others today can leave lasting impressions. A simple act of inclusion can change someone’s world. Let them be the reason someone smiles, not the reason someone struggles to sleep at night. Because in the end, kindness is the legacy we should all strive to leave behind.
To those of you who are facing the painful experience of being bullied or feeling isolated from "friends", I know it’s hard, and it can feel like the world is against you. But I want you to know that you are incredibly important and valuable. You WILL come out on top.
Firstly, remember that you have unique talents and qualities that no one else possesses. The world needs your creativity, your intelligence, your kindness, and your strength. The negative words and actions of others do not define who you are. They do not diminish your worth.
Every time you rise above the hurtful words and actions, you are showing incredible resilience. You are stronger than you realize, and every challenge you overcome builds your character and prepares you for future success.
Think about the people who care about you—your family, friends, teachers, and mentors. They see the real you and believe in your potential. Let their love and support be a source of strength for you.
Most importantly, never let the cruelty of others shape your self-image. You are worthy of respect and kindness simply because of who you are. Stand tall, and don’t be afraid to reach out for help when you need it. There are people ready to stand by you and lift you up.
Hang on and keep going. The world needs you, just as you are. You are important, you are loved, and you are capable of amazing things. Don’t ever forget that!
**Many of the girls who were cruel to me eventually reached out over the years since high school. They apologized, sought forgiveness, and in some cases, even friendship. While I wish the circumstances never existed, I am so appreciative and grateful that they did this. ❤️ If you can't be nice in the first place, the least you can do is apologize. 😅😉
