The massacre at Virginia Tech should serve as an object lesson for students everywhere, especially those in elementary, middle or high school. Some classmates of Cho Seung Hui recalled that he was mercilessly teased and picked on in school. The Columbine gunmen were also teased and picked on. Here’s a novel idea for students, and all of us for that matter: When you see someone who seems “different,” try reaching out to them. Or at least be civil. While teasing is considered “normal” for younger kids, it doesn’t make it right. Constant torment can result in deadly outbursts like these. Obviously there were other issues involved that should have been recognized and dealt with early on, but the teasing and torment were major factors.
Hazing on or near college campuses that results in injury and/or severe emotional distress is also unacceptable. Parents, teachers, professors, administrators and others who witness or hear about this behavior have a responsibility to let the perpetrators know it will not be tolerated. Severe hazing should result in criminal punishment. Those who think such behavior is “harmless” should ask themselves a simple question: “Would I want to be treated like that?” A simple, common-sense application of the golden rule would help prevent many problems in life.
Fred Hutchins
Lynnwood
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