I’m among a few who think that bullying can change a person’s life in a positive way if he or she believes in the mantra ‘I am special’. To many of my classmates, I was always the shy and sensitive newcomer who never mingled with the others. I would often get bullied for being a ‘nerd’. But guess what? Now I’m one of the most popular girls in my school, and all because I started speaking my mind, showing my talents and proving to my peers that I am in fact ‘special’.
It all started four years ago when I was in the seventh grade. It was the month of December and everyone was excited as we were nearing our school’s Annual Day program. Each class had to give a performance as part of the programme. While our class teacher was discussing with us ideas for the event, she suddenly pointed towards me. “Manisha, do you have any ideas for the programme? We need to be the best,” she said. I stood there dumbfounded, terrified that my classmates would once again tease me. After a lot of effort and much to the surprise of the rest of my class, I managed to mutter the word ‘drama’. I heard a lot of whispering around the class that made me even more anxious. However, the broad smile on my teacher’s face gave me the encouragement and assurance that I needed. “What a great idea Manisha. You’re in-charge of the programme.” And just like that, she handed over the responsibility of the programme to me. This was the first time I was given an opportunity to showcase my talent. I shocked everyone with my sudden change in attitude: and my transformation from boring to confident and energetic. I prepared the script for the play, wrote out dialogues and even held auditions for the various characters. At first thoughts of getting bullied constantly crossed my mind but I was so caught up with the preparation of the programme that I had forgotten all about it!
On the day of event, all my efforts were rewarded when our class programme was recognized as the best performance of the day. My proudest and most memorable moment happened when my class teacher mentioned my name on stage and thanked me for the success of the event. Even today, when I recall that moment, I get goosebumps; I still can’t believe how I managed to tame my bullies and pull something off with so much confidence.
I know there are kids out there who have had horrible incidents with bullies. To them I’d like to say that if you believe in yourself enough, no one can harm you or bring you down. You need to believe that you are special and be brave. The best way to get rid of a bully is by ignoring them. Remember bullies feed on your reaction and distress. Show them your strengths instead of your weaknesses and they will eventually back off.
By Manisha. R. Manikuttan
