Bullies- It Happens to all of Us
If there is one thing I have learned from being a vegetarian (or being a teenager for that matter) it’s to pay no-mind to peoples ‘jokes’. Where I live, being a vegetarian is a completely foreign concept, it’s pretty much the unthinkable. And if you are serious about being a vegetarian, you have to ignore the rude comments that you will more than likely get.
I know this sounds like a given, but if someone is picking on you for who you ARE, they truly aren’t worth your time and energy, and they most definitely aren’t your friend. If someone is picking you apart, you need to remind yourself that they don’t matter, anything they say or that they do is no-more important than what you. Bullies will try their hardest to make it seem like they have power over you, but they don’t! What makes them any better than you? Nothing! People like this need to be taken down a notch or two, and you need to show that you won’t take their crap. Whether it’s telling a teacher, parent, ect. someone who you know can do something about it, and take action. And believe me, I know something like this is easier said then done, but I honestly believe if it’s something you try hard to work towards, it can be done.
Confidence isn’t something that happens over night, it’s a gradual thing. And if you show confidence in what you’re doing, whether it is being a vegetarian or talking in front of the class, people will believe you. They will believe whatever you have to say, if it’s done in a respectful, thoughtful, and confident way. You are a smart, kind, and beautiful individual, and NO ONE has the power to tell you what to do.
And most important of all, don’t feel like you’re alone. Bullies get by in their lives by putting other people down to make themselves feel better- you are not the only victim. Chances are if YOU stand up, and YOU tell someone what is going on, you’re not just speaking for yourself, you’re helping others who aren’t strong enough to get help.
In other words, be the change, make the difference- Because you can!
