But words leave a lasting impression. I don't know how many times an adult, whether it was my parents, grandparents or teachers, gave me the old sang about not letting words hurt you. While I believe we choose to be offended, and even choose to get mad, I do not believe we choose to be hurt. Words have the ability to complete cut you in half or build you up. The things I was made fun of for when I was younger still affect me today.
Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death amongst teenagers today and 75% of them resulted from bullying. It makes me sick to think so many kids out there are so demoralized, so beaten down by the taunting and teasing they face that they actual believe taking their own life is the only solution.
Bruises, broken bones, even scars heal and fade with time. However just one brief mention of a prior taunt can bring back the flood of pain it previously caused. Unfortunately as human beings we all make the mistake of snap judgments and cruel stereo types. We have been victim to them, and we have been the cause of someone else's self consciousness.
Like all change, it must start with the individual. We must take responsibility for our own actions and our own words. Judgment is a part of this world, but we can choose to live above it. Its not something you can just achieve one day. Its one of those things we will continuously have to work on. Start by actively noticing what you think about people when you see and meet them. Make it something positive. I say this because I realized just in the little conversations I have, or the random things I think how truly horrible some of it is. I don't know most of these people yet I feel its ok to talk about them or make judgments based on how they look. That is NOT ok. I have been trying something new lately, especially while walking on campus. I try and think one nice thing about every one I see. Its actually been amazing. Regardless of how cliche or lame it sounds the positive energy in turn makes me a happier person. The world looks better when you choose to view it that way. Go ahead. Try it. I dare you.
If not there ARE two sangs from when we were younger that DO apply.
1. If you don't have anything nice to say don't say anything at all.
2. Think before you speak.
1 comment:
That's my daughter!
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