Anti Bullying Awareness

My name is Monica McGary and I am a 17-year-old senior at Miami Jr./Sr. High School. I was born and raised in Claypool and have only gone to Miami Schools. Throughout my years of being in school, I have had so many amazing opportunities: joining band, being in cheer for a few years, and even starting a film club. School has been great, but there is an underlying issue that many people do not speak about: bullying. It wasn’t until I came to school in kindergarten that I realized I was different. I am sure every student can say the same thing because everyone has been bullied before. Form the very first second we are surrounded by people who know no better, we put ourselves at risk to be criticized for things out of our control.

It is essential to know that bullies can be found everywhere. They tend to pick on the insecure because they themselves are insecure. They can be at school, work or our own homes, and even inside of ourselves. It is something that has always been present in our society. I do not believe bullying is something that will ever stop. Unfortunately, there are always going to be people who want nothing more than to see others sad. It would be great if people could stop being mean, but we are not in a perfect world. Something important I have learned over time is that we need to help others to be confident. Not only is it great to be able to see someone’s self-esteem rise, but when people are confident, they will have the mental strength to stand up for themselves.

We, as a community, need to teach ourselves and the people around us how to stand up and defend themselves. Because I am a person who has been bullied before, I think ir is especially important to look out for others. A simple conversation and just being able to listen to someone can go so far. We need to let others know that they are capable and so much more than what others say. What bullies say is not depiction of who we are, rather it is a reflection of their own character. I knew I was different in kindergarten, but as I have learned more over the years, I realized being different was good.

Monica McGarry