The concept of respect is nothing foreign to most of us. However, whether we actually take the time to implement it into our daily lives or not is another thing altogether.

We’ve all been briefed numerous times on respecting ourselves, our friends, and our family. But what about our school?

Last month’s pep assembly perfectly exemplified our school’s inability to do so. While this does not directly apply to the majority of students, the minority provides cause enough for necessary change.

Though it should go without saying, the most horrifying incident at the assembly was the not-so-silent moment of silence. Whether you knew Al or not should have had no weight on your volume during that time. And if you didn’t want to be silent for him, you should have been silent for everyone else in the room. It was not too much of StuCo to ask for thirty seconds of silence to honor someone’s entire lifetime. And despite popular belief, it was not only a few sophomores who
disregarded this courtesy. Though they might have seemed to be the loudest, outbursts were made from each class and it is not fair (disrespectful, even) to make them the scapegoats.

In fact, what was perhaps the most obnoxious display of disrespect at our assemblies was that towards other classes. Contrary to popular belief, age differences do not grant any sort of “privilege” to boo any other class. Is it such a novel concept to simply cheer louder for your own? This issue is a time-old tale, but one that certainly has not warranted the attention it deserves.

Sadly enough, the lack of respect was carried even further. Disrespect for other classes was not the only issue; ironically, several classes faced opposition from within. The senior and junior class banners were ripped down and graffitied by members of their own class. Symbols of class spirit, destroyed. You know things have gone too far when it comes to that. What’s worse is that no one attempted to stop them – successfully, at least. Those who had and dismissed the opportunity to say something are almost as much at fault. A banner may seem to be a little thing, but it represents so much more.

Everyone at this school is either at or nearing adulthood, but it’s a select few that actually act their age. Respect was something taught in kindergarten. Constant reminders should not be necessary, and those still struggling with the concept should be embarrassed.

For the first time in Howell North history, the pep assembly was broad
casted live on FHNtoday.com. The Web site had over 600 visits that day. Who knows how many witnessed our tragic inability to show any semblance of respect.