School is starting soon. Last year I bullied (欺负) a boy. (I'm a girl) I attacked him even though he's stronger because I knew he wouldn't hit a girl. I want to apologize but I don't know how. I feel bad for doing this. He doesn't

trust me. How should I show him I have changed?

—Lily

    Firstly, be proud of yourself for changing. It's not easy to admit (承认) that you bullied someone or to stop once you start.

    Offering an apology to someone you bullied is a great first step toward starting over. If you can, tell him, "I want to apologize for my actions last year." Speaking from the heart can help. Tell him, "I feel really bad for what I did. It's been on my mind all summer."

    People who are bullied often have difficulty trusting others, especially the people who bullied them in the past. So don't expect the other person to accept your apology easily.

    Secondly, be patient. It will take time. You've probably heard that "actions speak louder than words". So after offering words of an apology, you then need to show him that you've really changed: be kind and helpful to him.

    Thirdly, you should remember: First, what you're doing takes courage and you can be proud of the fact that you are taking real steps to change. Second, whatever happens, you're building some good skills and learning more about yourself and the kind of person you want to be.