Experiencing racism; a mindful reflection

                                                   Author: Fatima Jaafar, Volunteer- Your Amigos Foundation 

Words can hurt more than actions. Comments can leave deep emotional scars that carry on into adulthood. Best friends share their most profound miseries. The following encounter is one of my best friends' experiences in her own words; to remind our little brothers and sisters that they are not alone and not to give up in life. 

I went to school in another country. I always felt like I do not belong there. Other children used to call me names and used to remind me about how different I am. They commented my skin color is darker, and my hair texture looks different. I always felt unwanted; they used to avoid me and refuse to engage me in their games. I seldom had any friends. When I return home from school, I used to cry and tell my mom that I don’t want to go to school anymore. I didn’t tell her the actual reason because I was shy or maybe because I didn’t want to make her worried. 
The bullying continued through my elementary school, and it had a clear impact on my personality and my way of thinking. I have never felt good about myself and the way I look. I used to ask my mom to buy me fairness creams and beauty products to make my hair look like the other girls. I was too embarrassed to discuss my problems when I was younger, but I have learned that it's important to talk. 
I used to see a therapist who helped me get through my tough times, it might be hard to talk to or trust someone initially, but it's worth it. I grew in confidence over time, and I was amazed by the change it can make. I may still fear being judged by other people, but I'm happier now, and I feel confident. I started to open up more and share my story with the people whom I trust.
Studies show that children who experience bullying might develop severe emotional and mental disabilities. It interferes with social development, self-esteem and increased the risk for anxiety and depression. Today, my goal is to encourage people to speak up and make an impact in at least one person's life. 

Don’t see yourself as the problem, and don’t try to isolate yourself even if you want to. Always remember that you don’t have to go through all this by yourself. Parents and teachers should inoculate the confidence in children to talk about their problems. Each parent, teacher, and community members' role is to teach our children about the beauty of their uniqueness and the value of treating others with dignity and equality.