When the statistics become people, things change. When you see a teenager behind every number, things look different. Lisa, with a big lump in her stomach, who goes to school scared every day. Steve, who gets teased and isolated week after week just because he's a little different. Amanda, who always has to sit alone at lunchtime. Andrew, who laughs at school but cries when he's all alone because he always feels left out, without really knowing why. Rebecca, who feels violated when people in school joke about her, and when the guys at school touch her without anyone reacting. Then it's no longer just about statistics, it's about a regular day at your school.
Young people bullying one another comes from fear of being left out. Nobody wants to be left out. In schools and colleges today, so much is about fitting in and being accepted, and many people are willing to do anything to gain this acceptance - even if it's at someone else's expense. Young people often bully because they don't see themselves as popular, or “in with the crowd”. It can have to do with not having the "right" clothes, not listening to the "right" music, or not acting the "right" way. And for that very reason - for being the unique individuals they're created to be - people are bullied by those who don't dare to be.
This is sick. This is something that grieves Jesus. This is something we can do something about!
Today there are loads of New Generation groups in Europe, and thousands of young people are coming together in their schools, colleges and universities to spread the love of Jesus there. Together we can be an active and audible voice in the struggle against bullying! Sure, maybe it doesn't feel like you've got much to give, or like you're doing that much, but the little you have you can give. And one thing I've learnt is that it's often the small things that make the biggest difference. Small things that make people's day and show them that they're appreciated.
Each one of us can sit next to Amanda at lunchtime. We can smile at Lisa and talk to her even if no-one else does. We can say no when Steve's being mocked or when Rebecca's being harassed. That's one of the most important things of all: Daring to say no! And together as a group we can do so much. Why not have your own anti-bullying day where you put up posters and hand out leaflets with info on bullying and Bible verses?
Here’s a few more things you can do to combat bullying in your school:
- Tell the adults at the school. e.g. the school nurse, head teacher or another teacher you trust.
- Be a friend to the person being bullied. Speak to him/her, smile and encourage them!
- Pray for the person being bullied. Why not organise an anti-bullying campaign together as a group?
- You can also do a theme day on friends. If there are several people who know what's going on, that can be powerful. Positive peer pressure can put a stop to bullying in your school. Helping a person who's being bullied could make a difference for the rest of his/her life!
- Let your parents and an adult at school know about it. It's courageous to tell them, and don't forget that everyone has the right to be treated with respect!
Bullying is a big deal, but it can be stopped. With these few simple steps you can help the people around you who are being targeted. As Christians we should be the first to say no. We should make sure that our Christian school groups and lunch clubs are places where anyone can come and feel at home. Let’s work together to erase bullying from our schools and colleges. If we can make life easier for one single person who's being bullied or frozen out - then let's do it. Jesus would have!
For more information on how to start a Christian school group or get resources and support for your CU or lunch-club, go to www.newgeneration.co.uk
