I was watching a movie with a friend the other day, and we came across an important scene. This girl in high school was having a rough time, and this teacher was there for her like no other. This friend explained to me how they wish they could have had a teacher care for them like in the movie when they were that age. I was astounded at this comment; every teacher I had in high school took interest in me and my friends, every teacher was there when I needed them and incredibly personal. I didn't understand, and I explained that. To this, the friend said, "All of the teachers were interested in the popular kids, and left the rest alone. Weren't you one of them?". This got me thinking. The more I thought about it, the more it became true.
For all of those who went without notice, this is for you.
Ignorance is bliss. I was ignorant in the fact that bullying happened at my high school just like any other, and the popular kids or the ones who seemed more "normal" than the rest were the ones who had it easy. I talked so highly of my Alma Mater, and thought it was so different. Little did I know that I just chose to ignore those around me. People are the same every where.
There were kids who were suffering. There were teenagers who could have really used an adult to pay attention to them, or simply just a friend to lean on. Yet, all of us (the more "popular", as one would say) were too caught up in how much fun we were having. In how easy those four years were for us. We didn't allow those who really needed the attention, to have it. We took all of the time from those around us, and all of the people that could help, away. It wasn't as easy for the ones we chose to ignore.
They walked past all of us, dreading high school. Dreading their classes, and counting down the days until graduation from the minute they stepped in the door. Being unnoticed. They sat quietly in the classrooms, and we chose to believe that they weren't there. Why didn't we talk to them? Why didn't we lend a hand, why couldn't we just become a friend? While we were having the time of our lives; while we were enjoying our last moments. While we were crying at the thought of leaving our second home; there were kids getting peace out of the thought that it would soon be over.
To those this applies to, I'm truly sorry.
My time in high school is over, it may be too late for me fix what has been broken for years. Yet, that doesn't mean it won't end.
Next time you see someone sitting alone, invite them. Next time you see someone sitting silently, talk to them. Next time you see someone that you haven't noticed before, get to know them. Those who went unnoticed, should never have to face that again.
Sincerely,
The "Semi"-Popular one
