End Bullying: Be the Change You Want to See
September 9, 2014
Bullying is a hot topic, especially with the prevalence of cyber-bullying among our youth. It’s something that nearly everyone has to deal with at some point in their life, and bullying affects not only the bullied, but also the bully. Those who are bullied risk depression, low self-esteem, and isolation possibly into adulthood. A large percentage of children who bully others grow up to commit at least one criminal act as adults.
It’s time to take a stand and be the change you want to see. The messages below provide hope and healing and perhaps a way to stop bullying altogether.
Have Hope
Every time I cross paths with this video from Britain’s Got Talent it brings tears, but also happiness. These two boys tackle the issue of bullying head on and send the message: Be hopeful.
Don’t be the Bystander
What would you do as a bystander? Would an average person step in to prevent aggressive behavior? This video creates a powerful social experiment to pose that very question. What will people do when they see bullying right in front of them? As the video points out, “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.”
Peers React
One of the most publicized bullying cases was the tragedy of Amanda Todd, a young girl so hounded on the Internet that she changed schools several times and eventually took her life in despair. In this video, teens reflect on her story and give insight to a perspective many of us do not see. Their reactions reveal the wide range of feeling among Amanda’s peer group.
Take a Stand
A sixth grade class wanted to take a stand and send a message in reaction to Amanda’s story, in hopes that this senseless pain could be avoided. They say through action that “I could do something.”
If you are personally touched by this issue or are worried about a loved one, seek help! Talk to a parent, counselor, or teacher. For parents, stopbullying.gov offers several resources including warning signs that your child is being bullied or is bullying, as well as a great list of questions to open communication within the family about this issue.