I experienced bullying firsthand my freshman year of high school. I was one out of three black students in the high school, and had been attending the school since 2nd grade. I was considered an extrovert, nice person, and diligent student.  The events occurred during finals week, and I came to school to find my locker defaced trying to remember the day, is a big blur for me. The N word was written in my locker, my pictures were defaced with hateful words. I was texted from anonymous person who threatened me saying, " I think it is funny you are trying to figure out who I am, but you see me every single day."  Although my principal and friends tried to figure out who was harassing me but the person was never caught, and as a result go off scott free.
When I was attacked, it was a shock to my friends, family, and school. I constantly asked the question why me, what did I do. I do now know it was not me but rather that person had insecurities in him or herself, and he or she felt power in putting me down. My pain made them smile inside. I do not believe that it was done by one person. I believe many people knew and stayed silent. Students need to realize, the issue of silence. If students do not directly bully the kid, but act as a bystander, they are potentially contributing to the problem. People need to ask themselves, what if it was me, and not worry about what their friends think.
After this happened to me, I lost focus in school. I felt vulnerable, and did not trust anyone. There were days that were very difficult, some worse than others. But with help from my family, friends, and God, I knew there was a light at the end of the tunnel, and ironically, that light was Lumen Christi.
To this day I do not know who defaced my locker, but I have forgiveness in my heart.  This incident is one that I carry with me every day. I know what it is like to be bullied, and I will do everything I can to raise awareness about high school bullying. I am happy to share my story, because I believe silence does not aid anyone. I hope that my story helps others struggling through the same thing.  My message to those who are bullied: know it gets better. Although my experience of bullying was unfortunate situation, it made me a stronger person, but most importantly it led me to a school that has offered me great opportunities and has led me to great people.