The Cycle of Bullying
Tags: Love, Education, Self Esteem, Bullying

Source: Pinterest

I write this post with a saddened heart because of what I saw on the internet a few days ago, and I couldn’t understand it at all. It felt surreal but unfortunately that wasn’t the case. This story was about a girl who was bullied by her fellow female friends for reasons my mind couldn’t comprehend. Reason was, she was more brilliant and answered lots of questions in class and they also saw her as “ugly.” This was something that went on daily, both in class and on facebook. The start of this bully was verbal but the straw that broke the camels back for her to commit suicide was when they took it to the next inhumane step, by physically abusing her after school (silly right?). What actually happened was, she was slapped countless times infront of some students and they just stood there to cheer the bullies on. I wish I could attach the video but it’s so heartbreaking to do so.

Source: Pinterest

Bullies are simply people who intimidate others mentally, emotionally, verbally and sometimes physically. Charity they say begins at home is one statement I strongly believe in. Aside some children being influenced by their friends, whether negative or positive, majority of the upbringing of children is what they see and learn at home. How do the parents behave when the kids are around? Do they use foul languages? Is there physical abuse? These are all things children pick up as they grow and it paints a mental image in their minds.

Source: Google

Proverbs 22:6 that, "train up a child the way he should go, and when he grows, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 13:24 " Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them."

One thing is for sure and that is, bullying not only happens in schools. Bullies can be found in every stage of life. In the family, workplace and even on the streets. While it is common for some children who are bullies to learn their lessons and grow out of this behavior, others become adults and continue in the same inappropriate way. God made a very remarkable statement after Cain killed his brother. This was something I was drawn towards by God’s mercies and my new Bible study partner, “sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.” And this was as a result of his anger which took control over his life. Paul told the people in Ephesus that,

"in your anger, do not sin and do not let the sun go down while you're still angry."

The problem here is, it’s difficult to separate sin from anger that’s why Paul said here in:

Romans 12:18 that, "if it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."

Those who bully tend to prey on those who are weaker than them. They somehow feel intimidated and insecure about how their failures are being exposed and brought to light. We all need to stand against bullies regardless of their age. Having a support group could also be effective and help you not to walk alone (YNWA☺️) and be exposed to bullies. Also, let’s normalize not keeping secrets about bullies to ourselves. It becomes more difficult when it takes longer to open up to a higher authority. Parents in the upbringing of their children must teach them what love is and how they can show love to others, since it’s a word of action. They should as well create a room where kids can easily share their worries from school and elsewhere.

P.S. To acquiesce with bullying can take a toll on you and the effects may damaging

To those who are yet to give birth. You have some years ahead of you to lay your hands on your belly daily to form whatever child you want in prayers. To the guys, your loins will not shoot any bogus sperm😅 (as funny as it may sound, life is spiritual. It’s ok if you don’t believe). No child is a mistake and they are as a result of our negligence or our deliberate actions. Say No to Bullying and educate your children, friends and loved ones to be the best they can be in the society. Rest in Peace dear Lufano and may your soul find rest. Gone but not forgotten.