A Cinderella Story - Bullying Culture
The world is increasingly aggressive and competitive which seems to have led to us being more willing to elbow others out of the way in our pursuit of "success". Everywhere you turn, you can see examples of bullying. Whether among children, adolescents or adults or across these age groups!
Now, the true dilemma is what we do about it. Doing nothing is not an option. We are called to weep with those who weep and rejoice with those who rejoice. Therefore, the victims of bullying are our first concern. However, if it is within our power to stop the bully, let's do it. This should be without us becoming oppressors ourselves.
Cinderellas story might be remembered for her glass slippers, the dancing till midnight or indeed the prince. However, before all that glam there was a bullying culture at her home that was alive, well and thriving. The compassion we have towards Cinderella is one of the reasons that make her story enduring and endears her to us.
A few tips for the victim (injured party) of Bullying:
1. Seek help. "A prudent person sees trouble coming and ducks; a simpleton walks in blindly and is clobbered." Proverbs 22:3 & 27:12 say the exact same thing. The point is; avoid the bully if possible and definitely report bullying to someone who can stop it from happening. A parent if you are young, a teacher or lecturer, victim support unit in the community, a supervisor or H.R. person, sometimes even a friend are all there to help in these sorts of situations.
2. Find your voice. This is closely linked to the first tip. Some bullies simply need for you to stand up for yourself. They don't want to be opposed or embarrassed in public. I know this can be a huge step from being shamed to being bold. It helps when there are people to cheer you on and though that isn't always the case, it's essential to say NO when what is happening isn't want you want. Confronting the bully or speaking to someone to help, empowers you to start making the changes that must happen. Ecclesiastics 3:7 reminders us that there is a time to speak...
3. Get in the habit of praying for understanding on who to trust, when to speak up, how and even what to say. Not everyone may see the situation as you see it or understand your concerns but God certainly does. He calls us to "... not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Phil 4:6
Wisdom is the principal thing; Therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.
Proverbs 4:7
Remember that Goliath was bullying the Israelite army when David went to see his brothers and saw what was happening. Day in and day out the army were intimidated by this huge bully. David shows that you don't have to match the size of the bully to face off with them and be victorious as opposed to being petrified.
Scripture Reference (1 Samuel 17).
Christians are called to be salt and light in the world. To be the ones inviting all to the great ball to meet the prince. We should embody love, joy, peace, kindness... (Galatians 5:22-23). We should not hurt others but represent God as Jesus did. Remembering the golden rule:
"You shall love your neighbour as you love yourself" Matthew 22:39.