Tomorrow is Pink Shirt day in Canada (February 24, 2016). The origins of this anti bullying day come from a small town in Nova Scotia by the name of Berwick. In 2007 two brave young men decided to come to the defense of a grade nine male student who was bullied for wearing a pink shirt on his first day of school. David Shepherd and fellow student Travis Price stood up and made a statement buying 50 pink shirts for fellow students to wear in protest of bullying. The “pink shirt movement” caught like wild fire and is now celebrated on different dates around the world!
For those who may read this blog and feel discouraged because you are being bullied presently, or you are being put down constantly by school peers or whomever, don’t let the words or actions of others against you define who you are. Trust me!
Love this poster by Craftibilities:
You are in great company with many a celebrity who rose above the name calling and being excluded during their youth. You may not suspect it, but some of your favorite celebrities were bullied during their school years. Regardless of age or what stage you may be in life, there is always a tomorrow and a future. You are important and unique; no two people are the same, not even identical twins. Your contributions to this world can make a difference in the lives of many. Choose kindness despite the cruel actions and words of others.
Look at the following who stuck it out and ended up thriving beyond anyone’s wildest dreams:
Mila Kunis was bullied and made fun because of her large eyes and full lips; kids at school said she had a “funny face”.
Chris Rock can thank his bullies for helping him develop his humor as a way to respond to being bullied at school.
Jessica Alba was teased endlessly in high school because she had buck teeth and a Texas accent. She was called ugly if you can imagine!!!!
Steven Spielberg was bullied in school for being a “nerd”!
Before ex boyfriends were her inspiration for song writing, Taylor Swift was bullied in junior high and began writing songs to help express her feelings. Thanks bullies for the inspiration!
Barack Obama was bullied in school; he sure showed them!
Kate Middleton was brutally teased at boarding school. Go figure she ended up marrying a Prince and being a modern day fashion icon!
Michael Phelps was bullied for his big ears and teased endlessly because of his lisp, which was hurtful at the time, but didn’t stop him from winning 18 gold Olympic medals. Who do you know who is able to retire by the age of 27?
Critics, bullies, frenemies or what have you… Don’t listen to them, don’t give up and keep trying. You are special and unique and I do believe you can do anything you put your mind to!
Peace & Love – Rachel
You Know Jacques! 