As A Middle Schooler, I have dealt with my fair share of bullies. People think that bullies don't exist anymore. But between the punches, kicks, and racist remarks, they are very real. But they are also human, made of flesh and blood pumping through their veins. Possibly,they are misunderstood creatures.
The sound of silence
Perhaps the best way I have learned to deal with bullies is to give them the powerful weapon of silence. Throw them the sound of silence and the bully will go away for others. The Bully is like a predator; they will not target you unless they perceive you as weaker than the rest of the flock. Indeed, the best way to stand up to bullies is with the weapon of silence.
Find Your Place
To deal with bullies you need to find your special friend group with similar interests as you. Bullies know that if you have a back up from respected members of the school, you will not be an easy target, and you will move on. Finding your pace might be the most complicated and difficult task you might have to face. Don’t just find your place with the popular kid. Look out across the playground, among the faces of the misunderstood and shy. Perhaps they might have more energy than the rest of the school, but you just need to unlock it.
Tell a trusted adult who cares
If a bully has been bugging you persistently for a period of time, it’s time to take it up the flagpole. This may seem scary, but adults care about you. They will do anything in their power to help make a student happy. Of course, you might need evidence. This is why a friend group is such an important necessity for your survival. They can be witnesses for you. Of course, you cannot use them unless they have actually seen the bullying. Talking to the principle is scary, but remember, you are not in trouble. They honestly care for you. So go ahead, march up to them with boldness and bravery. Look at them directly in the eye and speak the truth. I tell you, this is a powerful weapon!
Find common ground with your bully
This strategy should only be used sparingly. Look them in the eye, and see their conflict and hate glaring right back at you. Smile. Give them your snack. Try to talk with them. Don’t talk with them about their actions yet, just pick a topic such as asking them what the best video game is or something. Who knows, Enemies might just turn into friends.
Conclusion
I am not just writing this essay for the 50,000 points, I am also seeking to help people in pain and conflict. I hope you use these weapons to your advantage, for I wish I had been taught this when I first entered through the iron double doors of the building known as school. A place of magic and learning, and a place of pain and conflict.
