Future Voices is a recurring column that gives young writers a chance to share their thoughts on leadership, faith, and the world around them. This column was written by a seventh-grade student.
People see the world differently, and sometimes that turns into cruelty. I’ve noticed that even adults criticize others in ways that feel like bullying, especially in politics and online. I used to think grown-ups handled things better, but the truth is simple: bullies are hard to deal with. Period.
Bullying shows up everywhere, at school, online, and even from people in power. Recently, I watched a video my mom sent me that showed a private moment involving someone in politics that was shared publicly. It honestly hurt to watch, because I know how painful that would feel if it were about my family or even myself.
Strangely, I also watched a video made about someone in our grade who tends to lie a lot, but he doesn’t deserve to have a video made of him. I understand why it’s tempting to do something like that, but it’s still not okay.
When someone messes with someone I love, my first instinct is to give it right back, maybe even harder. That feeling is real. But it’s not what God asks of us, and I rarely act on it. Instead, He asks us to do something much harder: love our enemies.
That sounds crazy. Love the kid or person who makes fun of you? I thought the same thing.
Matthew 5:44 says, “Love your enemies… and pray for those who persecute you.” Those words are tough, but they matter. Everyone is made in God’s image, even the people who hurt us. Loving your enemy doesn’t mean letting them win. It means refusing to become like them.
Sometimes the strongest response isn’t retaliation.
Sometimes, it’s choosing love.
I pray that more teens and adults choose love, and when needed, give grace, humility, and an apology when dealing with one another.
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About Future Voices
Future Voices is a Sunday-morning column in The Dallas Express in which young Texans share how faith and perseverance shape their lives. These stories remind readers that God often speaks through the honesty and courage of the next generation.
