Pondering….

A few thoughts since this last Dramatic Monday….

Bullying

on the heels of my being called a bully, by someone of authority, in the school for which I volunteer a LOT of my time, a friend said (not exactly quoted):
I don’t believe in bullying, you have to let yourself be bullied.
This statement holds some truth to it. I agree and disagree. Personally, I have never intended harm on anyone in my life. I might, in a moment of anger or dislike, think harmful thoughts, who doesn’t? So to think like a bully, I cannot. I do agree that some people do not possess the inner drive to defend against some people who are out to cause harm. Since today’s schools teach kids not to defend themselves, some are fearful because of repercussions. Does that mean they let themselves be bullied? Yes. I do not think anyone should be fearful of defending themselves, repercussions or not. So, the statement my friend made holds water; however, people are still subjected to bullying even if they defend themselves, the attacks are likely to continue It’s the WEAK vs STRONG. Some people live to cause harm (emotional or physical) to others. I’m not weak by any means. My daddy raised me to be as tough as a boy. Back in my school days, I had a “follower” that, by today’s terms, seemed to dedicate her life to being my bully. Now, we both were not much bigger than a pencil, indeed not intimidating…but she had a mouth. My parents told me I

always walked around like I had a chip on my shoulder

. Maybe she thought it was directed towards her. I would always be blindsided by some stupid tactic of hers resulting in physical and/or emotional attacks. It started in elementary school and didn’t stop. It even happened during our 10 year reunion photo. Why? I dunno. Did I stand up to her? Yes. Was I bullied? Yes. Am I weak? No.

It’s unfortunate that society has taken this term and attached it so freely to life. Life happens. Fight for what you believe in. Stand up for yourself. It doesn’t mean you have to take drastic measures but don’t let yourself be bullied.