Stop the Bully

Thanks to The Bully Project for sponsoring my writing. Visit their website to join the movement and learn more.

Bullying is an unfortunate part of most childhoods and negatively impacts the lives of many people. All of us have encountered a bully or victim of bullying at some point in our lives, maybe even first hand. As a parent we instinctively want to keep our kids safe from harm and this of course extends to protecting them from this form of unnecessary physical and emotional torment. We also need to be acutely aware of how we are raising our kids and what kind of moral values we are instilling in them so they do not become the bullies.

Is this behavior preventable? I think it absolutely is but it requires concerted effort in large part from the adults and administrative systems that are taking care of our children. Education, awareness and getting to the true root of the problem are all essential for the global effort to stop this unacceptable behavior.

I think bullying is the result of a long list of possible problems. Some examples include: xenophobia, racism, homophobia, and possibly even undiagnosed/untreated psychological problems.

There are also some more complex considerations to the problems such as the power of crowds/group dynamics, poor leadership, immoral social values and poorly developed consciences. These problems may be the root of bullying and so they all need to be tackled by the parents, teachers and other social leaders. Stronger kids (not just physical but emotional) need to stand up for what’s right and protect their peers if they can as well.

I think it is pretty obvious that these same issues will manifest into even bigger problems when these kids become adults and their behavior has never been corrected. In a world that is already seeing far too much suffering and violence we surely need to start with our kids by keeping them safe and happy so that they can grow up and maintain these values with the rest of the planet.

It’s all about understanding consequences of actions and standing up for what’s right. Be sure to check out the trailer of the new documentary “The Bully Project” below and to share it with friends and family, it is now time to take a stand!

http://youtu.be/rjjeHeAzZZM

About the film:
Following five kids and families over the course of a school year, the film confronts bullying’s most tragic outcomes, including the stories of two families who’ve lost children to suicide and a mother who waits to learn the fate of her 14 –year-old daughter, incarcerated after bringing a gun on her school bus. With rare access to the Sioux City Community School District, the film also gives an intimate glimpse into school busses, classrooms, cafeterias and even principles offices, offering insight into the often-cruel world of children, as teachers, administrators and parents struggle to find answers.

Bully is shown in select theaters beginning Friday, March 30.

I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective. Find showings in your area for The Bully Project and buy tickets here.