To the editor: You see a student sitting in your chair when you come back from the bathroom. You’re shocked. Then angry. Then ready to go into a fight. Two hours later you’re seen sitting in detention watching the other kids play at recess. You ask yourself, “Was this worth it?” Some part of you screams, “TOTALLY, TAKE HIM DOWN!” However, one small part whispers,“Not at all.”

“An eye for an eye” means to take a moment and breathe in the heat of the situation. I’ve been caught in so many of these positions, yet each time I fail to learn. At that point, time freezes. It feels as if you have to stand your ground. To show to your opponent that you are capable of defending yourself, and be the victorious winner. The mind is so fixated on the goal at hand, it loses sight of everything. Sometimes, I even forget why I’m angry. All I know is that I have to win. I need to win. I want to win. Right there, selfishness, greed, and revenge have taken over. You’re no longer the golden character you once were. You’ve become an ugly monster filled to the brim with the need for retaliation.

Because of these violent situations, worldwide impact has ensued. For example, some people in the world live each day in fear. Fearing for their lives, their families, and the wellbeing of their country. All this because a compromise was not reached; because another country was mad and started bombarding another. Maybe the root of the problem could be solved if only everyone calmed down and thought intellectually. Even war could be solved by this method. Instead of fighting like barbarians and little kindergarteners, people could grow up and discuss the problem with dignity and conduct. Even your best friend could become your worst enemy if this continues. She steals your money and you steal her pencils. This could go on and on until YOU make it stop. Take a breath and think “ Why am I being so childish? Am I really that low?” After all, the one who stops the ordeal is the true winner of golden character and maturity.

In school, to redefine the definition of “an eye for an eye,” be the one people look up to. Be the person that is able to compromise and stop an argument. Show kindness and respect to your peers, and give them the politeness everyone deserves. Even at a small age, I’ve learned, you don't have to like everyone! Not all people are going to be your best friend or will be. However, everyone needs to be treated with the respect you show your family and friends. Tolerate everyone and accept everyone. Differences are what make a person unique! How odd the world would be for everyone to be the same. Be the leader you want people to see in you,

You see a student sitting in your chair when you come back from the bathroom. You’re shocked. Then angry. Then ready to go into the fight. But you remember. After all the events and punishments, you remember. You breathe, then take your backpack and slide into a different chair. Inside, your heart is jumping for joy and sunshine has just beamed through the clouds of revenge. You’ve learned an eye for an eye is not, and never shall be, the answer.

Kelly Kaon

Barrington