I was bullied, hurt, beaten, and vulnerable. I went to middle school every day afraid of what I’ll have to face. For every day of school was another horror, another torment, another person hurt. I was not the only victim. Most of us were. Unlike the others, I was the outcast I had no one to turn to. As a naturally open and talkative 6^th grader, I needed a peer to vent to. My “friends” at that school became tired of hearing the same old sob story and preferred to converse with others. With people who were not so depressing.

I was sad all the time. I faked a smile until I got home and immediately burst into tears. I was weak; I was hurt. I dreaded to see what tomorrow would bring.

Then 7^th grade came, and a new student came to class. Her name was Sarah, and she was immediately my best friend at that school. She struggled with me, supported me, and helped me through all. I suddenly was not so afraid of school, for such a dark place had a glimmer of light. That glimmer of light gave me hope. For the first time in a while, I looked forward to tomorrow.

She built me up; she made me stronger. I was even happy sometimes. I true friend came to me when I needed her the most, and I realized that the world might not be so terrible.

One day in 8^th grade Sarah never returned to my school. She had transferred elsewhere. I was devastated, for I was alone again. However, she left me stronger than I was when she met me. The bullying never truly stopped until I left the school district, but I was able to handle it a lot better. At times when my situation seemed unbearable, I was able to stand my ground and not let the bullies get to me.

Always befriend the bullied, the hurt, and the betrayed. You might build them up, and even save a life. They will always remember you for the difference you made.

I will always be grateful for the short time Sarah Parker was in my life. Thank you for being there when I needed you the most.