“It’s okay, they’re only kids.”

To me, that is one of the most ignorant things that somebody could say to the issue of bullying. As one kid that has experienced this first-hand, I can tell you that bullying is real.

I can’t remember the kid’s name. I can’t remember exactly what he looked or sounded like. What I do remember is what he did to me. My story is not nearly as cruel as others, that I will admit. It doesn’t change the fact that it happened.

Let’s say the bully’s name is Josh. I don’t know why he picked on me. Honestly, I’ll never know. There wasn’t anything distinct about me amongst the other third graders. If I remember correctly, he was in sixth grade. Thinking back on it now, I don’t understand what he got out of making me miserable.

There are two memories with him that I will acknowledge. First was the time I was just standing with some friends. He came up to me and started making fun of my family and me. He said something along the lines that I was tramp. Of course, I tried to defend myself. There’s not much somebody can do then. A few moments later, he pushed me a couple times until I was on the ground. Then, he ran away.

The teachers always used to say that if you’re being bullied, make a joke out of it or ignore it. Now, adults are telling kids to report it. If they had said that then, the bullying could’ve stopped right there. However, it continued.

The school held an annual activity in lieu of doing P.E. This meant running in a giant dirt circle for prizes. To the point, this is where Josh ran past me, picked up dirt, and threw it. Straight into my face. I wasn’t doing anything to him, I was simply walking. To make things worse, we were far away from any type of adult, so they didn’t see anything.

I didn’t report it, but luckily, my friend did. My family didn’t know this was happening. I didn’t tell them either.

Anyone can make a difference. Take the step to stop the harassment. Nobody should ever have to go through bullying.

Bullying is emotionally damaging, and I don’t think that people understand just how much it can affect somebody.
 
Sure, it may be kids that say these nasty things, but that is not an excuse.

As cliche as I may sound, report bullying. It can go as far as to save a life.