Nikki

Reflections of Tolerance, Respect, and Cultural Diversity in an Urban High School

 

Tolerance - - a word that is supposed to be said with a good connotation

But when I think of some places

I realize that it is not always practiced

 

Students of all different races and cultures

- - In the same place

Stand amongst others like them

Hardly ever mingling

 

A few

- - Very few

Try to be the go betweens

And - - occasionally - - they break past the barriers

But most of the time they don't

 

Respect is what one is supposed to have for everyone and everything

Hold it in the highest possible regard

But look around

Tagging, gum, profanity

Everywhere

Respect is something sorely lacking

 

Everyday someone is being punished

For lack of respect of one thing or another

And everyday

Many more people get away with it than noticed

 

True - -

There are a few who are very respectful and tolerant

But nobody ever hears of his or her good doings

The bad ones get all the attention

 

The "problem children" they're called

And for some reason, they get the most attention

And respect

Everyone seems to care what they think

When - - in reality - - the good ones should get the attention

For they are the ones that make the world great

 

The kids who have respect

And are tolerant

And can float easily between every group of people

Are the ones who will make the world better

 

While the others

- - The bad ones

Will end up less fortunate

 

Let's hope that the good kids finally get the leg up