Sarah Nigbor

When my friend Jess posted about her two little boys on Facebook and how heartbroken they were for being teased by classmates, my heart hurt for them. I know teasing is a part of childhood, but sometimes it just goes too far. I wouldn’t be a kid again if you paid me. You can read their story on this week’s front page.

My daughter is in fifth grade and when she tells me about some of the behavior and teasing she sees at school, I am sickened. The words that come out of some kids’ mouths is frankly shocking, and I’m no prude. I was extremely hesitant to allow her to have a cell phone, simply because of the texting and social media bullying that can occur between kids. I hope I’ve taught her better than that. I wish I could protect her from it forever, but I know I can’t.

I despise when people get enjoyment from making others feel bad about themselves. It’s up to parents and adults to teach children that this type of behavior is not okay. Being a kind person is not equivalent to being a pansy. Being a bully does not make someone tough or better than others.

When Jude told his classmates he wants to be a nurse someday like his mom, why did so many little girls turn on him and tell him he can’t because he’s a boy? That is an archaic way to think. If girls are encouraged to pursue careers that have been predominantly male, such as doctors, lawyers, pilots, and scientists, then why can’t a boy enter a profession without fear of ridicule that historically was dominated by women?

For those who think nursing is a “weak” or “soft” job for the “fairer sex,” think again. Nurses are highly trained professionals who go through years of schooling. They work in sometimes high-stress environments for long hours, putting themselves at risk for patients every day. I don’t care if my nurse is female or male, as long as they know how to do their job, I’m grateful. I hate going to the doctor enough as it is; if they’re competent, that’s enough for me.

I want to know why those girls think boys can’t be nurses. Or why a boy can’t be in a dance class or think unicorns are cool. Who taught them that? What else are they being taught about people? It’s just plain sad and small-minded.

When my husband goes to the doctor, he actually prefers to have a male nurse. It makes him feel more comfortable, especially when dealing with men’s health issues. I have also had male nurses and have found them to be incredibly comforting and compassionate.

Kindness starts at home. Parents have a responsibility to teach their children to be kind to others, even if people are different from them. If we were all the same, this world would be a very boring, bland place. Kids mimic what they hear from their parents. I know I don’t want my child insulting others.