Hello reader,
In the words of Robert Frost, “Nothing gold can stay.”. We know that all good things must come to an end, and as I write this the new school year is officially upon us. Even as someone passed my school years, I still feel a tinge of loss as the summer draws to a close. Maybe it’s just a desire to stay in warm, hazy days for longer. But the energetic demands of the school year pours out to every aspect of life and creates a productive, recharging effect.
It’s important to remember that every season has a purpose and the fall is no different. This is a last burst of productive energy before the freeze of the winter hits us. It’s a moment to come back into our lives after recharging our batteries in the summer heat. I hope you’re doing well, and ready to embrace this new year and the challenges that lay ahead.
I use the word “challenges” quite intentionally. With the start of the new year, it is inevitable that new obstacles and difficulties will fall in your path. Whether it is a difficult subject, a teacher that seems to have it out for you, the morning struggle to get out the door on time, or navigating constantly changing social dynamics, the only certainty is that it’s going to get difficult.
Of course with the use of technology and social media, cyber-bullying was able to persist and endure through the summer break. So a return to the classroom doesn’t necessarily represent a return to bullying so much as an added level to in-person rejection, and humiliation that goes along with these power dynamics. The return to vicious comments and interactions with harassers hiding under the guise of “boys will be boys/girls will be girls” excuses is an unfortunately painful part of the back to school process.
Even if you don’t experience bullying and harassment yourself, there is a high probability that it is occurring all around you, both in school and online. If you’re reading this, you’re likely aware of the problems and looking for support and ways to change the culture of your school. One of the most important things to do is keep your eyes and ears open to others’ experiences. Use your influence to speak up on others’ behalf, or let someone know they’re not alone. Talk to a trusted adult about the situation. You are not alone, and you do not have to accept any behavior that makes you feel uncomfortable or less than. Your worth is limitless.
One thing to keep in mind as you work to change norms and values in your community is “Resilience.” This is the ability to keep going no matter the difficulties you face. When doors slam shut in your face, you kick them down. When you feel most alone, you find the open hands to reach out. It’s so important to remember, no matter how difficult the challenges you’re facing this fall, never give up. Sometimes the only thing you can do is continue to put one foot in front of the other and keep going. Never forget to see your own strength and brilliance.