I grew up in a suburb of San Diego, which was very near the Mexican border area. Most of my little classmates were Hispanic, and the majority belonged to the Catholic church.
This was a big element in the lives of my schoolmates- I heard about their confirmations, knew that they ate fish instead of any other meat on Fridays, went to catechism classes, prayed their rosaries and said their "Hail Marys." I also heard about how I, since I hadn't been baptized, was going straight to hell. I wasn't sure exactly what or where Hell was, but I knew by the somber expressions and tsk tsk tsks that it wasn't good. This became an issue that caused me worry, embarrassment and some apprehension. I really did feel left out, different and of course, concerned that my sister and I were headed to this place called Hell to meet with a man named "The Devil" or "Diablo."
Another issue that seemed to incite some of my peer's rage and make them want to pick on me, was the fact that I was a little chubby. This was back when most kids seemed to be on the skinny side, and I was mostly not. I got teased a lot for that as well. Add to this my very distinct yet not cool (I always wore what I liked, not what the fashion mags told me to) style of dress, and the fact that i was a bit hairy, and things got real.
Back to elementary school, though. There was a particular boy, ironically named "Jesus," that really enjoyed picking on me. One particular incident has stuck with me all these years. My sister and I had gotten new shiny jackets from our dad. Shanon's was pink, and mine was royal blue. I remember how shimmery it was, and how much I loved it. It was, after all a gift from my dad. I was in the cafeteria serving line, and Jesus was behind me. In the most nasty voice his fourth grade self could muster, he said to me, "did your Daddy buy that shiny jacket for you?" Jesus went on to mock and embarrass me. I wasn't sure what to say, or how to handle the situation. There were other incidences, and I remember feeling like I just had to remain on my toes. I never knew when the next insult,slur or mean comment might come about.
I never told my parents about any of this. I suppose I was a little embarrassed, or maybe worried that they would march down to my school to try to defend me, and that it might even aggravate the problem.
So, I guess my point in writing this post is- I'm really happy and thankful to see a new awareness, a new sensitivity emerging amongst people; an intolerance of hatred and unkindness. I also know we have a ways to go, and more work to do.
Remember, It is our uniqueness that makes the world go 'round. What an exciting new time it is. Little Kristin, all those years ago, would be pleased.
We are, after all, in this together.
