Dear Destiny,
Lately, school has felt tense.
Due to recent events, I do not feel like I can be my true self on campus. I know we are supposed to be “open-minded” as Vikings at PV, but not everyone strives to be their best Viking. Sometimes campus does not feel like a safe space to be fearlessly myself.
How do I find a safe space for myself on campus while coexisting with people who have different beliefs?
Sincerely,
Looking for a Clan
Dear Looking for a Clan,
I totally feel you! Sometimes even I, someone who stands firmly as their true self, can not be my true self lately. Pleasant Valley High School is supposed to be an open-minded school, with different beliefs varying from every student and that is okay! Yet some are not ready for that conversation when they hear about different beliefs from a person. I know during these times it is hard to express how you truly feel about the world and people around us, considering it is not the most safe for many, but you can push through, we can push through this difficult time.
What I suggest is to find a safe place for yourself and maybe even your friends around you. The library at Pleasant Valley High School is always a great place. The library is a judgment free and accepting zone for all. Another suggestion is to find teacher’s classrooms to hang out in. Most teachers are accepting of students to hang out in their room. Room D1 is a great example. In the art building next to Mrs. Green’s room, there is an extra art room where students can go in during lunch and hang out, except for Wednesday, where a club meeting is being held.
Now, what can you do to be your true self if you encounter someone with different views as you? Respect them but also yourself, at the end of the day, you can be the sun that shines through the cloudy skies of the time. Now how can we show respect for others with different beliefs? There are many ways you can go about this.
One, do not interact with them at all, the best way to keep the peace is to not start anything. Second, if someone is directly making comments to you or is starting something with you, ignore them once again. But if they are approaching you to aggravate you, do not interact. I consider them to be bullies, and what do bullies want? A reaction. If you give them that reaction they will feel great. Knowing they pulled some brings them joy because they can not find happiness in themselves. No matter what, do not interact. If you interact they get what they want. But that does mean you can not stand up for what you believe in. Reply to them calmly and in a controlled manner. Not too loud and angry that gives them that reaction. You can control how they feel about themselves by not giving a reaction.
Now, I should keep this short n’ sweet. I hope this helps you in the long run. Finding safe places for yourself and others is crucial to create a safe environment. Respecting others’ beliefs but also being confident in your ability to stand up for yourself is key. Remember, just because you respect others does not mean you agree in these beliefs. You are entitled to your opinion and your own beliefs. Hope this helps you, Looking for a Clan.
XOXO,
Your Dearest Destiny 🙂
