Everyone - every single individual - has some sort of thing that makes them unique. We are all born with a quirk, whether we can visually see it or not from the time we are born. From how one moves to the sound of music to the way one engages with the world with their most talented characteristic, this is what is known as "being you".

As we grow up (go to school, meet new people, etc.), there is almost always that one moment in a person's life to where their uniqueness is judged. It could be right when they start kindergarten or later when they are a senior in high school; it can happen at any given moment. As soon as that time comes, that is where we, as individuals, make a life choice - "Will I let this little pointless comment dictate my life?"

In everyday life, such remarks can sprout from anywhere at any time. For example, one day, a child, who tends to always be punctual when it comes to school, sits down at their desk before class starts and notices a note on the surface; the piece of paper has the words, “Teacher’s Pet,” written with a black marker in bold letters. Whether the bullying is in or outside of the classroom, it happens, and the bullier can go from being a peer one sits next to in class to a family friend who helps out every so-often. However, here’s a thought - why do it?

Is it a form of entertainment to ridicule people for simply being alive? What is the overall reason?

When one is being abused for just existing, help a person out. When one is being called names, help a person out. When one is being put down for having a crush on someone, help a person out. We all go through similar situations at a point in our lives, so why not, at least, try and be understanding for those who are struggling?

There are two sides to every story - the bully and the one being bullied - as well as consequences. Most of the time, when one is being harassed by another, the effects from the events can cause for decline in physical, academic, and mental health, which can lead to depression and anxiety. Now, not only does the situation affect the target but the initiator, as well. Persons, who bully others, tend to lead a life of delinquency, such as engaging in acts of violence and rebellion. However, this does not define the case for all. A quote from William Shakespeare is stated, “It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves.”

Whether one is called fat, told to "get some meat on their bones", mocked for how tall they are, picked on for the color of their skin, ridiculed because of what they have, being identified as their condition instead of as a sufferer of, made a joke due to how smart they are - "You are you, and no one knows you better than you."