Bullying as True Drama

This is a response to the article Dr. Sohn posted in his e-mail. It struck a chord with me because I was bullied a bit during my middle and high school years. Though it may seem harmless, it takes a toll on you. Though cyberbullying was still at its infant stage at my school when I was growing up, you could see bullying everywhere.

In middle school, there was a boy who constantly belittled and made fun of me. One day, I had enough. When the teacher went out of the room, I got up, and starting beating the snot out of this guy. No blood, but he was shocked that I would dare lay a finger on him. As the entire class was also in shock, I said out loud, " Don't you ever mess with me again or next time, I will kill you." Opps, a little over the top, but I literally "beat" him at his own game. I believe he later transferred schools. Also, no one told on me that day.

In high school, some students made fun of me here and there, but like the article mentions, " it's only high school." I remember another student who was bullied all the way from middle school till the end of high school. People were calling him gay and other nasty names. Some even beat him up when he tried to stand up for himself. I've witnessed one of them, wanted to stop the attackers, but I didn't. I kept to myself and not bring any attention to myself. I honestly think that had a negative effect on me which followed me to college! During my junior year in college, I slowly began to find my voice again. I've always regretted not helping him and I will never forget that day. I've tried to contact him several times to catch up, but he won't meet with me. Bullying ruined his social skills and out look on life. Thanks to friends, the Army, and to a great extent (yes, I will put this) God helped me through downs to where I am now.

To conclude, I wonder how my bullies and others turned out after high school. I question if they changed or stayed the same. For the ones I've found, it seems like they put bullying in the past and live great lives. I wish I can say the same for the other guy who suffered all throughout middle and high school. I also think it will be interesting to see some of them at my 10 year high school reunion. Bullying is a problem, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem. As a future educator, I want to prevent any sort of bullying from happening in my classroom or school. Using techniques like restorative justice may be an integral strategy stop to bullying at the source as well.

p.s. there's always more to the story than people may see. Key & Peele are awesome (language warning)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUvFeyGxaaU