Trusting people in school? Not a chance. Here’s a hilarious yet frustrating story from my middle school days. Back in 7th grade, there was this tight-knit friend group that seemed inseparable—like “best friends forever” kind of vibe. Crazy thing is, one of them used to bully me in preschool (good times, right?). Fast forward to the end of 8th grade, and my former bully has an emotional breakdown in the school bathroom, sobbing and acting out. After that scene, the whole friend group crumbled.
By the time 9th grade rolled around, the remaining members of that group (minus my ex-bully and a few others) started gossiping nonstop about the situation. They began trash-talking everyone—seriously, just about anyone—and it was impossible to understand why. One even told me that my ex-bully still harbored resentment toward me back in 7th grade. Like, really? It’s been over a decade since preschool, and they’re still holding a grudge? I wasn’t even in their lives anymore, so what was the point?
Then came 10th grade, and things only got weirder. I started catching snippets of these guys whispering about random classmates—people they hardly knew, who hadn’t done anything to them. And guess what? I somehow ended up on their list of targets. One morning, I walked into class, usually the first one there, but two of them got in before me. I overheard them say something along the lines of, “If we got rid of that person (me), there’d only be normal people left. They’re just crazy…”
Excuse me? Why act like they know me so well? And what did I even do to deserve this? I hardly talk to them; I’ve done nothing to provoke their disdain, yet here they are, slandering me for no reason. People are just bizarre these days. They won’t tell you directly why they don’t like you, but it’s painfully obvious when they’re gossiping behind your back.
It’s honestly absurd. We live in a society where you can be hated just for existing, regardless of your actions. Even when you’re just keeping to yourself, someone will find a reason to dislike you. And the worst part? The reasons often have nothing to do with you at all. Why would I even try to please people like that? Not a chance.
So, the takeaway? Don’t trust anyone. People can be pretty awful.
Wow, it sounds like you’ve been through a lot with that friend group! It’s frustrating when people hold onto grudges, especially when it seems so unnecessary. You’re right; it’s strange how some people thrive on drama and negativity, making judgments about others without even knowing them.
It’s a tough lesson to learn, but it seems like you’re already ahead of the game by recognizing the toxicity of their behavior. Surrounding yourself with positive and genuine people is definitely the way to go. Not everyone will be like that group, and sometimes it’s better to find friends who appreciate you for who you are rather than jumping on the gossip train.
Stay true to yourself, and don’t let their opinions get to you. People can be weird, but that just means you find the gems who are worth your time and trust. Keep your head up!