Bullying is something we've all had to deal with in one way or another. Most of us have memories of being picked on, stuffed in lockers, or beat up during our younger years. But sometimes things go too far, and the results can be catastrophic. There have been a lot of stories in the news recently about incidents at schools that have ended in violence and sometimes suicide, and that's what was on Adam's mind when he decided to shoot this week's Soapbox.
While we may feel like we're on the right side of this argument, there are some people out there that engage in similarly harassing behavior in online multiplayer games. As far as Adam is concerned, this is just as bad as bullying someone in person. Take a moment to hear what Sessler has to say on the subject, let us know how you feel, but please keep the discussion civil.
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Alpaca-Wrangler
Your my hero! Honestly man i don't think you could get any cooler. Everything in this soapbox is spot on! I wish there was someone like you i could listen to back in school.
uanimal
I dont need those people on my planet! so true so true
Darkkow
Adam, well done man. I am proud to have a person with your integrity and morals too be representing us in the media.
As a 35 year old guy, I had very similar experiences as you. I can also attest that folks who are bullying/jerks in middle/high school tend to land flat on their faces when they hit reality of post education. At my last high school reunion, most of the bully's were there. All out of shape, all holding down crap factory jobs and still looking for the next time they can get drunk to remember that one game they did something meaningful in their little world... 15 years ago.
Sheogorath27
Good stuff. You rock Adam.
haggus71
I agree with Sessler, as do most others. I do think that we have a whole generation that has grown up being able to say whatever they wanted without worrying about that other guy kicking their ass. Just remember, saying it on Vent or in-game does not give you a set of cajones. It just makes you another immature retard who will get their ass kicked by Karma, eventually.
Also, don't forget, a nice percentage of those who play FPS games...are military or veterans. Do you really want to piss off one of us who has A) the ability to find you, and B) the ability to make you pay? Not a threat, just a reality. Think of that the next time, with your other loser friends, you are sitting in your apartment ready to rag on someone.
Wakeman90125
Wakeman90125
so free speech for games.. but not for gamers? sounds a little odd..
oh, Richard Pryor was a "Wife Beater".. maybe he was just expressing himself?
Inarikun
Adam,
Thank you. I don't think I can express how truly grateful I am about this week's Soapbox.
I have taken my share of verbal and physical hits. I've learned how to deal with it my own way. With the recent tragedies, there have been much conversation about the source of the problem. From the internet to conservative-constructed ethics promoting this kind of behavior, there is little addressed about a solution.
I cannot think of a better way than to NOT be a simple bystander witnessing bullying (in-game or real life). You spoke of this and encouraged true courage. Your anecdote is mirrored to anyone subject to bullying. But when there are people who stand against this kind of behavior they are defining themselves to be real life heroes. Taking a stand against what is wrong is not the easiest thing to do. Even though it may be obvious, it's easier than most people think.
I disagree that this video is not appropriate for Epictober. What you said this week distinguishes you as an epic and real life hero. I cannot think of a better subject.
Thank you again,
Just another gay gamer ^_^v
TheRighteousFascist
I completely agree with you, Mr. Sessler, and I will stick up for people from now on. I used to be passive about it. I always figured that people couldn't get offended by words unless they let themselves. I still believe that, but I realize that we, as a species, must support each other in every way possible.
Oh, and awesome shirt, by the way. Gotta love Richard Pryor. Rest in peace.
WilyLoGo13
say it Sessler!!!!! o and u rock!!!
thor9356
Great soapbox sess. When it comes to online multiplayer it seems as though video games have lost their meaning. Where as we play the single player for fun and interest. Others play the multiplayer to fuel their ego and believe that they're great so they try to prove it by insulting others but they don't realize what effect this has on the community. Sure we can mute them but sometimes its hard to ignore what you heard.
CheeseRaven
Thank you for bringing up this topic. You always have some great things to say.
Keep being awesome Adam, maybe some of it will rub off on the douchebags.
SheoDagana
I am a gamer. I always have been. My passion for gaming ostrocized me from my peers throughout school. I know there are many people that had it bad in Junior High, but trust me when I say I had it worse. You know that person that everyone in school hates and you don't know why, but you hated them too just to fit in? That was me at my school.
That said, bullying is a touchy subject for me. Years after graduating, there are certain ticks that take me back to it. Not unlike War Flashbacks, ya know? So when I read about the young people today committing suicide, it appalls me. The saddest part is that adults rarely do something about it. Adam says to be that guy and stand up for people, and I whole-heartedly agree. You're never too old to make someone feel just a little bit better about themselves. Whether you're at work, school, or Xbox Live.
I mute all people on XBL that isn't a friend on my list, because the amount of online bullying is just absurd. Children using foul language, grown men ACTING like children... it gets out of hand. And I don't want to listen to it. There's something about the internet that brings out the worst in people. Maybe their real lives are bad and they feel the urge to be jerks in Halo just because they don't feel superior anywhere else? Still, that should not be tolerated.
Anyway... this is turning into a rant, rather than a comment. I'm glad to hear Adam talk about this. It's a hot button for me, as I'm sure it is for many other gamers, especially with the release of big-name multiplayer titles this year. I mean come on guys, we're all playing for the love of the game. Life is hard enough without people being jerks in games as well.
jack_messiah
way to go, adam! i think the gamer demographic should be especially aware of the kind of bullying that you're talking about for what should be very obvious reasons. unfortunately there's also the cycle of abuse that occurs when a person who is victimized in their daily life is given the kind of anonymity and megaphone that a headset and subscription to xbox live or psn provides them.
skatr0220
Adam, I really think that everything you said needed to be said. I love playing games like Modern Warfare 2 or Battlefield: Bad Company 2, but I don't know why people think they have the right to say the things they do to other people online. It is disgusting and just terrible what people are being told just because they may be different.
I can understand people getting angry at the game and expressing their feelings about it briefly on the microphone, but it seems like people have no respect for others what so ever.
I'm only 21 and there is so much I don't know, but I do know that the way people are being treated and talked to is just ridiculous. They all need to grow up.
k3g3r
Right on man i understand exactly wut ur talking about i was bullied by a lot of older kids up until i got biggaer than them and they got wut was coming to them lol but now i c my younger brother getting bullied and it really pisses me of so any1 who watches this jus act ur age dont pick on lil kids cause it makes sum depressed like my lil sis and if i ever c any1 being bullied i got u 100%!!!!
infexous
Adam you kick ass! love the Pryor Tshirt....You are so right!
People need to grow up sometimes .....
nicksix
This is a great video. Thanks for posting, Adam. I heart you!
idea_machine
Halo T- bagging at 4:54!!!!!
smoe79
Adam is the most badass person ever now. He is now one of my idols and I completely agree with him. Fight the good fight Adam!
loudog1er
Adam my friend once again your views are spot on. I want to commend you on encouraging young people or any person who is being bullied online or at school the option to contact you. I think more celebrities should give young people the option to get negative feelings off there chest via email or a dedicated website. I feel giving someone a positive outlet where there voice can be heard, and know it wont fall on deaf ears will truly make a difference. Keep up the good work.
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