My Friend Is a Bully
By Clarissa, age 21, Texas
Mya, 12
Hey Mya,
I think that you are headed in the right direction as far as knowing what's right and wrong. At the same time, I noticed the words you used to describe the young man in question, "gross" and a "creep." He might be different than others, but honey, that's the beauty about all of us. No two people in this world were made exactly the same; we are all unique and awesome in our own way.
That being said, it is ok to not get along with someone or not to prefer their personality, but everyone deserves to receive respect. Bullying is cruel and harmful, something that can have deadly effects. People have killed and harmed themselves to escape the torment and humiliation that they suffer at the hands of their peers. If you feel that bullying is wrong use your voice and speak up. I'm not saying to rat out your friend - just talk with her. Often when people bully and target someone by pointing out their flaws and weaknesses it is an effort to establish control or dominance over a certain group and isolate the lesser person. If no one calls them out on it and makes it clear that bullying is not acceptable it is not going to stop. Go on your internet browser and show your friend all the cases of teenagers taking their lives because of bullying. It will hopefully be a big wake-up call for her.
If you have any more questions or concerns I will help you with whatever I can. This is a serious matter that is affecting our nation, but we will continue to get the same results unless we change our actions.
Clarissa
