From Bystanders to Allies
Flashing back to last year, in the sixth grade, during the summer time, my friends and I decided to match bathing suits at the pool. Disregarding my body structure, my 2 friends and I walked near the deep end. Before jumping in, I remember my friend turning to me with her hand on her mouth, whispering in my ear, “You should not wear that type of bathing suit, it does not look good on your body.” Reluctantly giggling along with her, despite feeling the shatter of my heart, I started to stretch out my skin, which I forced myself were rolls of fat, and sucked my stomach in. Forcing a smile, Ava (made up name)peered over at us after hearing us exchange laughs. Wondering why I was laughing and would not defend myself she quickly added, “Why would you say something like that.” Emily (made up name) responded, “We are joking.” In disbelief Ava explained that jokes should not be used to an extent where you make someone feel insecure based on their appearance. She then claimed that every body is beautiful despite their differences in any aspect. Carefully listening and taking into account everything Ava had mentioned, I perceived that I should have spoken up and said something in regards to how I felt in response to what Emily said. This also applies to anytime someone says something offensive about others’ appearance, personality, or makes an unnecessary and offensive comment on something that is different about them. As people made in the image of God, we should all conceive of our differences and our unique characteristics and understand that those make us up and are valuable parts of us! I clenched my eyes tightly struggling to visualize my home screen that read, “Be proud of who you are, and not ashamed of how someone else sees you.”
Bullying is an everyday problem that people all over the world either spectate or take part in daily, which is damaging to the mental health of people. We need to start addressing these situations, and taking action in these scenarios, whether you see bullying online or verbally.