Cyber Bullying
Rebecca Marino quits tennis because of bullying on social media.
Whoever came up with the old phrase "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me" apparently was never the focus of a real bully. As someone who has been bullied through a good portion of her life, let me inform you:
WORDS HURT.
While I am, in general, a fan of social media, it is the new playground of the bully. Now, instead of having to keep an eye out for the teachers or other kind of authority, bullies get to let all their bile and spite flow without fear or repercussions.
Does that mean I want censorship?
No, I think the government, ALL governments should keep their greedy little hands off.
However, when you see cyber bullying going on, make sure to step up and point out that its not cool. If its possible, give the recipient of the bullying some positive support; if its not, for whatever reason, tell the bully to grow up. In some way show that you do NOT support the bully and their name calling, trash talk tactics.
Most importantly of all - don't YOU be a bully. When you feel the urge to call someone a name, you may be used to biting your tongue. These days - sit on your hands. Count to ten, rethink what you're typing, and how it might be received. A joke to you might be an attack to them. Remember - name calling is the FIRST step a bully takes...it gets worse from there.
We all have crosses to bear - don't make them heavier by your words.
“Knowing what's right doesn't mean much unless you do what's right.”
― Theodore Roosevelt
“Because even the smallest of words can be the ones to hurt you, or save you.”
― Natsuki Takaya
Crosspost from DW