Singer, Shania Twain recently appeared on The Ellen Show where she talked about her difficult childhood. Shania Twain grew up in a small house in Timmins, Ontario where she faced poverty and domestic abuse. Hunger was a common part of her childhood as well as freezing cold nights without heat. You can find out more about Shania Twain's childhood in her new book "From This Moment On
Madonna via satellite from New York speaks out on the Ellen DeGeneres Show about the epidemic of teen suicides because of bullying. Disturbed over how many teens are committing suicide in schools and in college dormitories, Madonna shared a bit about her experience growing up.
Growing up Madonna felt like she was different and did not really fit into anyone’s group. Alienated and feeling isolated made her feel lonely. It wasn’t until her ballet teacher who was gay said to her that it’s ok to be different, there’s nothing wrong with being who you are, that Madonna began to feel better. Taking her under his wing, he introduced her to some pretty amazing people that made her feel like, hey, I am ok.
Ellen and Madonna discussed the fact that when kids are growing up in today’s society they are made to feel that it is ok to bully others because of the ways in which bullying is all over the media. Children need to be taught at home, not be a bully.
When you go onto Internet sites you can see for yourself that bullying is everywhere. It is in the news, in the newspapers, and the children need to be made aware that it is never OK to bully someone. Madonna recieved a very loud applause from the audience after saying, “Do Unto Others”. No one has the right to judge people because of the color of their skin or for being gay. By bullying someone you are saying it’s OK to bully me.
Here is a challenge from Ellen and Madonna. Go through an entire day without gossiping about anyone. Do not listen to any gossip from others. Walk away as soon as someone starts to gossip. You will feel so much better about yourself and by doing this day after day you will help to make the world a better place to live in.
You can find more information on anti-bullying and find helpful resources on Ellen's official website. If you are a victim of bullying you should find someone whom you can trust and confide in and let them know what is happening, so together a solution can be found. Those who are considering suicide, should seek help immediately. Things may seem pretty bad at the moment but they can get better. Anyone who is feeling suicidal should call the suicide hotline for help.
