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I was in a similar position in school. I was the hippy kid who wore glasses from middle school on and who always blew the curve. When you set a record for the school ACT scores or bring home the only 1st place in the Business Olympics for the school, it may win you scholarships but rarely will it win you friends. I moved around alot, so every six months or so, I'd have to deal with a new group of bullies and start all over with teaching them to leave me alone.
People say that school is not like being in the "real world" but in a lot of ways, it is... including dealing with people. There will always be someone out there who needs to make themself bigger by throwing their weight around; that doesn't stop when you leave school.
My father always told me "Never throw the first punch, but make sure you ALWAYS throw the last one." That doesn't have to mean physical punches. I think of all the advice I ever received, that's got to be some of the most useful. When you stand up for yourself, the bullies will think twice before they pick on you again. The best remedy for bullying is for parents to teach their children determination, perseverence, and a little self-respect (fostering a quick wit doesn't hurt).
The fact is, the more we treat our kids like criminals, the more like criminals they'll be. Putting metal detectors and security guards in our schools has to be done with a delicacy that I have yet to see. Otherwise, you foster a hatred for authority and a greater desire to strike out.
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I have a unique relationship with Lady Luck. She smiles on me often. Usually it's with derision.
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