Well, bully for you

 I'm sounding off about bullying over at Segullah today. It's something I've been thinking quite a bit about lately but it makes me kind of nervous to open myself up to all those comments from strangers.

In separate but related sentiments, a hole in the ground looks kind of cozy for fall, doesn't it?

Comments

[martha]

Your post was perfect Annie. I love reading all of your insightful, well thought out, and compassionate writing. You always do well. We could use someone like you in our neighborhood, of all places.

[JosephJ]

You keep a very crisp blog here, Annie! I've ventured in on occasion and absorb the artistry of your creations. Thanks for your example to our family.

For the record... I called out one of our youth for bullying many months ago eye to eye using the phrase "this is not acceptable..." and felt like I was talking to a toddler. There was sheepishness and apologies and a return to respect. Prior to that occasion I think the aggressor saw me as a peer. Afterward I was a leader. Some youth trust the boundaries, others seem to have to discover them through failed experiments. If parents/leaders are immediate and consistent, I think we will see marked improvements. We can't afford to let it slide, because we don't know where the slope might end.

[Anne]

Thanks, Martha. I would love to be your neighbor!

And, Joe, good for you. It's really what they need: a kind of guard rail leader/parent who will let them know when they're out of line. The youth adore you so you wield some good influence there. Thanks for all YOU do.

[Christie]

Your post was fantastic. Loved it.

I can't believe poor Maddy and Lauren. What unfair trauma. Poor things.

[andrea]

i always feel sick to my stomach when i hear any kind of story where someone is bullied. in any way. your piece was very well written. so what's the solution??