It Does Get Better, Much Better

I was bullied when I was a kid.

On more than one occasion by more than one kid. I’ve since taken numerous martial arts classes, joined the Army and I even became a police officer. A part of me was trying to compensate (I’m sure) for the feelings of inadequacy I had because of the bullying many years ago, but a bigger part of me hated (and still hates) to see weaker individuals taken advantage of by other individuals or worse, by groups of people.

Fortunately, I never had thoughts of suicide. I was lucky that I had a family and numerous friends while growing up, that loved me. However, many kids aren’t so lucky. They don’t have any support system at home or friends that care about their welfare. Also, some kids aren’t as strong as others perhaps due to nature, nurture or some combination of the two. It doesn’t really matter.

It took me quite awhile, because of the experiences of my youth, to come to understand what it really means to be a man. Despite all I did to be more manly and macho, none of it worked. Even after I had been in the Army and a police officer, I still didn’t understand. I hadn’t figured it out.

Even as an adult, there have been some instances of difficulty. About 8-10 years ago I had situations arise with coworkers where on two separate occasions one told me (or accused me) of being gay. Another simply asked if I was. I’m not, but those situations really put me off. Yes, I’m a different type of guy. I’ve known this for some time, but this still upset and frustrated me. Although not gay and I cannot imagine what it would be like to be gay, I do know a little of what it feels like to be scorned for being different. It can be terrible and it’s wrong.

The point of this post is merely to let kids (and parents of kids) know (as the man says in the amazing, heartfelt video embedded above) life does get better. It gets much better and ultimately you are in charge of your life. As tough as things may be for you now, stay strong and keep your head held high. Those who try to bully you and put you down do not determine your worth. You do. You are worthy of love and respect no matter your race, gender or sexual orientation.