When I was in fifth grade I took part in bullying a kid. I was mean, nasty and the kid in no way had it coming.
Almost 40 years later, I’ll tell you that not a week goes by that I don’t think about that and feel deep regret for the hurtful nasty crap I said to that kid.
What I needed at the time was a hard punch to the face. What I’ve gotten since is a constant reminder to be a decent caring human being, and to spend extra time talking to kids that are socially awkward.
I’m all for tough kids, but bullying isn’t how free people should act and they shouldn’t tolerate it in their children.
I did the same thing under peer pressure in junior high school. I was able to become friends with the kid we bullied while in high school. He is one of the few people I keep in touch with from high school after 30 years. It didn't take me long to understand that I need my ass kicked. I was lucky that I discovered a little empathy.
I have two daughters, 15 and 17 years old, they complain about the anti-bullying programs at school. I have to agree with them. They way liberal educators handle this situation is completely wrong. Bullies need a quick punch in the face. In most cases, the problem ends. Of course, I teach my girls to be ladies and they behave as such. They also know they will not be in any trouble with me if they stand up for themselves. They also know they won't get into any trouble by standing up to a bully teacher. The latter seems to be their biggest concern theses days.
Like my dad told me when I was a teen, I made the comment I was tough and mean (mouthy teen) He said NO be tough, but don’t ever be mean....they are 2 different things...today they all seem mean...