This past week, unfortunate news came out of Chardon, Ohio. A young man seventeen years of age went on a shooting rampage which led to the death of three teenagers. There have been too many horrifying incidents, such as this, in our society. This cycle must be broken.

The reasons why a young person decides to terrorize their peers is confusing and heartbreaking. The trauma that ensues is unimaginable, but can an incident such as this be prevented? From various accounts this particular student was considered a loner. The various atmospheres in high school are definitely challenging. Unfortunately there are “clicks” which tend to not invite those who don’t meet the criteria in the group. Bullying has unfortunately become all too common. The question at hand becomes, “Why are kids doing this to their peers?”

It seems that there is definitely a level of competition amongst younger girls and boys. This competition eventually becomes too much for certain people and forces them to stray away from the “crowd”. To consider the “crowd,” opinions of others and your level of popularity as the most important part of your social life, is NOT healthy.

If someone in your class seems withdrawn or possibly shy, it doesn’t hurt to speak to them or even stir up a friendly conversation. The notion of inclusivity surpasses exclusivity. It is important to open your arms to ALL. It’s not matter of becoming best friends, but being kind, which is essential. It is hard to identify violent tendencies, but if you do sense something, bring your concern up immediately to any teacher or adult that could effectively provide the troubled person with the help they need.

LETS MAKE A STANCE TO BE KIND AND EMPATHIC TO EACH OTHER!

Quotes to Digest:

It’s got to do with putting yourself in other people’s shoes and seeing how far you can come to truly understand them. - Christian Bale

“When another person makes you suffer, it is because he suffers deeply within himself, and his suffering is spilling over. He does not need punishment; he needs help. That’s the message he is sending.”
-  Thich Nhat Hanh

“No, you don’t know what it’s like
When nothing feels all right
You don’t know what it’s like
To be like me
To be hurt
To feel lost
To be left out in the dark
To be kicked when you’re down
To feel like you’ve been pushed around
To be on the edge of breaking down
And no one’s there to save you
No, you don’t know what it’s like
Welcome to my life”
- Simple Plan