Personal Slurs: Words Hurt

Timarion Bledsoe (12) keeps his head up and demonstrates respect towards everyone, whether on the football field or in the classroom. Photo courtesy of Kendra McGary

 Have you ever heard kids at school, in public, or even at home make racist jokes? You may have a friend of a different ethnicity. Sometimes in instances like this, your friends, family, or even strangers may make comments about your differences. There are many people who fear such differences. 

              So, how does one approach this dilemma? One way to avoid conflict when feuding with this issue is to keep your thoughts to yourself. This applies to anything really. Comments made towards any groups can be hurtful. “Jokes” made to or about people to hurt them is unacceptable. As a society, we should practice being the bigger person and keeping our thoughts to ourselves. 

            When discussing part of this topic with senior Timarion Bledsoe, he said, “At the end of the day, I know they don’t understand the pain behind what they say.” See, the comments made make others feel like a minority and like their feelings are muted. Bledsoe believes others may not understand how it feels to walk in his shoes and may not understand what he goes through. Fortunately, Bledsoe is not bothered by his peers’ jokes; but they still sting. One joke that make irritates Bledsoe the most is when kids say “T, I'm the same color as you.” Bledsoe shakes off their disrespectful remarks because they “don't know any better.” 

            No one should have to walk this earth with their head down because of what others have to say. Keep in mind the golden rule, here at the Calloway County Schools. TREAT OTHERS THE WAY YOU WANT TO BE TREATED!