Another reason to wear pink. Today is the International Day against Bullying, Discrimination, Homophobia and Transphobia in schools and communities.

“With ignorance comes fear – from fear comes bigotry. Education is the key to acceptance.” –Kathleen Patel

“Bullying builds character like nuclear waste creates superheroes. It’s a rare occurrence and often does much more damage than endowment.” – Zack W. Van

Because I loved him then and I love him now.

I don’t know how much the reading of quotes will help a person suffering the immediate trauma of be bullied in the now. But it makes me feel proactive by posting my thoughts. As someone who never quite fit into the (very) small hometown I grew up in, I’ve suffered the displeasure of people who never knew quite how to take me or what to do with me. And the need of certain people to put me down in order to build themselves up. Power taken anyway they could get it. We didn’t call it bullying in the ’70’s. They called me sensitive.

All I can say is Thank you, God! for books. They kept me sane until I found a place and friends that accepted me for who I was. Loud, girly, and always ready to offer an opinion.