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Cameron Hess
Class of 1974, its been more than half a century since we were shown the permanent exit door of our Bountiful High School nest and expected to use what we learned to spread our wings and successfully take flight into adulthood.
During our time at BHS, some students thrived and had great experiences, leaving them with fond memories and lifelong friends. Other students struggled just to survive, and not just because the coursework may have forced us outside our comfort zones. The teenage years are difficult for most adolescents, but one’s environment can make things even harder. High School was a time of trying to figure out who we were and the person we wanted to become. For many, it was a time of trying to decipher the unwritten social rules, figure out how to navigate the social networks and hierarchy of fellow students, cliques, groups, how to keep your head down, blend in, NOT stand out, become accepted by peers, or at least NOT become a target. Some classmates were kind to everyone. Some were not. Some tormented, bullied, and belittled classmates who were perceived as different or vulnerable, making their lives miserable.
I’m confident that all of us can remember at least some of those who were relegated to the bottom of the pecking order or social class. They were considered by many to be the untouchables, those with whom it was socially taboo to associate with or even interact with, except to deride or torment them.
On occasions, I was guilty of joining in on the name calling or disrespectful behavior towards classmates in a selfish attempt to not have the spotlight rest on me. Over the decades, I have felt remorse and regret for my behavior and have attempted to reach out and apologize to some of these individuals. Unfortunately, I have not been successful in contacting everyone. Some I cannot find. Some of those I wish I could apologize to are among the 50 or so classmates who have left us. My memory of some past events is spotty. If you can recall a time that I cannot, in which I was unkind to you, I offer a heartfelt apology and ask your forgiveness.
Before even more of our classmates depart this life, I invite anyone else who likewise feels regrets and remorse to unburden themselves and extend an apology, either in person at the reunion, or by some other medium, to those we would wish to treat better if we had a do-over.
And PLEASE, teach your grandchildren to be KIND!
Cameron Hess
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