Preventing Bullying

Published: Wednesday, May 7, 2014 at 12:08 a.m.
Last Modified: Wednesday, May 7, 2014 at 12:08 a.m.

Jim Posmer wrote a letter about the issue of bullying, and the hype caused by politicians in addressing it ["Bullying Hype," April 22]. Mr. Posmer commented that bullying has occurred for a long time, so what makes now any different than the past?

Well, a lot of things make it different. Bullying is never OK, not by kids nor by adults. That society's mindset has changed to realize this is a positive aspect of society.

Should bullying be made a criminal offense? I'm not qualified to determine that, but if making it a criminal offense helps protect even one child from being made to feel inferior, then it would be worth it. No children should be made to feel inferior for being who they are.

I hear the arguments, "Oh it's happened for hundreds of years, it will teach them to be tough." These are some of the weakest arguments ever. Just because something has occurred for a long time doesn't mean that society shouldn't stand up and right a wrong.

In a world where our children face more stress and danger than we ever did as children, we should be doing everything possible to fight to protect our kids. They are our future, and it is worth it to fight to save every single one of them. Too many of our young ones have been lost to suicide. It is time to say enough.

I address this part to any young people reading this: If you are having thoughts of harming yourself for whatever reason or know someone who is, please get help. Please talk to a pastor, priest, teacher or parent. It will get better. Life can be tough but it is worth fighting for.



Babson Park


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