Every year at school, I sit through program after program telling me not to be a bystander. I am told to defend those around me; I never realized the true meaning of these programs, until this past summer. During the summer, I worked as a camp counselor for the local Jewish Community Center. As counselors, one of our duties is to mentor campers ages five to fourteen in athletic activities. Throughout my first week, I noticed a disconnect between Senator, one of my co-counselors, and the campers.The disconnect was palpable and clear to anyone watching from the outside, I realized I could not be a bystander.
Having been exposed to the annual school program presentation, I knew what a bystander was and believed it was time for me to step up. I waited for an appropriate moment to speak to Senator about what I was witnessing. I knew I had to be sensitive to the situation because of Senator's disability. For the two years I had known him, I observed his struggle with, what I thought was, a mild form of autism. Having played a part in his daily struggle, I have often felt powerless to help. This need to step up presented me with an ideal opportunity to help my friend. I worked with Senator and the campers independently to help build a more …show more content…
At lunch on the first day of school, I saw a freshman sitting all alone. Without hesitation I invited him to join our table. I could understand how scary the first day of high school can be, and as a senior, I felt responsible for making the underclassmen feel welcomed and comfortable. I have found a new happiness in standing up for others when necessary. I will forever reminiscence on my time with Senator. I aim to be a demonstration for others who are fearful to act in similar situations, or reluctant and to attend those programs I used to believe were boring with open minds. This way they be ready for a time when it’s their turn to step
Having been exposed to the annual school program presentation, I knew what a bystander was and believed it was time for me to step up. I waited for an appropriate moment to speak to Senator about what I was witnessing. I knew I had to be sensitive to the situation because of Senator's disability. For the two years I had known him, I observed his struggle with, what I thought was, a mild form of autism. Having played a part in his daily struggle, I have often felt powerless to help. This need to step up presented me with an ideal opportunity to help my friend. I worked with Senator and the campers independently to help build a more …show more content…
At lunch on the first day of school, I saw a freshman sitting all alone. Without hesitation I invited him to join our table. I could understand how scary the first day of high school can be, and as a senior, I felt responsible for making the underclassmen feel welcomed and comfortable. I have found a new happiness in standing up for others when necessary. I will forever reminiscence on my time with Senator. I aim to be a demonstration for others who are fearful to act in similar situations, or reluctant and to attend those programs I used to believe were boring with open minds. This way they be ready for a time when it’s their turn to step