Community

As race season gets closer and closer, I am reminded of last year's challenges and this year's new challenges. The idea of doing a half ironman this year is a bit nervewracking. Ending the season with a full marathon is going to be even tougher. I remember how nervous I was tackling the races last year in the midst of so many strange faces of people who seemed more driven, more capable, ready to blow me out of the water. In talking about my endeavor, I've been pleasantly surprised to find out that so many people I know are going to be doing the same races as me this year. It's as if every step of the way there will be friendly faces sharing the same experience.

Recently, People magazine ran a short article about the Alliance School of Milwaukee, a charter school for kids who found themselves struggling in their previous schools because of bullying and harassment. The article was full of examples of kids whose aptitude and self esteem had increased since finding this new environment. And these kids aren't perfect. Part of their curriculum includes learning how to deal with their conflicts with each other and their differences in a respectful and constructive way. And so it's shocking to think that there would be anyone who would suggest that such a school should be shut down or go unfunded. This particular man interviewed suggested that the whole need for such schools is overblown, that kids aren't really being bullied that much. Or even if they are, we aren't really doing them a favor if the only way they can succeed is by pulling them out of the "real world."

It's difficult to go it alone. It feels better to have friendly faces by your side. Without the anxiety or the anger, without the resentment or the depression, all that is left is the ability to focus on the job at hand, to be yourself and to be your best. And when we can be our best, we have the ability to help others be their best at the same time.

In a sense, the man in the People article is right. We shouldn't need charter schools to ensure that all kids are valued and respected regardless of sexual orientation, gender expression, or anything for that matter. All kids should be taught to understand the necessity of a supportive community and the benefits that supportive community brings to everyone.

Please consider helping me help GLSEN achieve their mission. I'm running these races to raise money and awareness. Donate what you can at www.my.glsen.org/leschke