The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
Children are vulnerable and as such need the protection of caring adults.
Stacey Creasey wrote about "the Kid" (named to protect his identity), as one of the worst cases of child abuse he's encountered. The good news is that the Kid, after telling a trusted school official, was adopted into a stable home and is now a happy 12 year old.
This sick saga could have received earlier intervention. Relatives knew, neighbors suspected, and parents were tipped off by state protection agencies, who unwisely called to state their arrival time-October 16, Macomb Journal. People can call anonymously to report suspected abuse.
Pamela Terry, WIU Professor, spoke recently to concerned people, after a 16 year old threatened to bring a gun to West Prairie High School, after claiming he'd been bullied.
Terry emphasized the seriousness, citing 12, 13, and 14 year olds who have committed suicide and school shootings because of bulling. She dispelled myths with facts: Bullying is often done by those who get straight A's, are cocky and confident, and are encouraged when a picked-on student fights back.
Workshops are planned and the principal wants to implement an anonymous hotline or internet, to help silent victims, who are ashamed or fearful of retribution-Macomb Eagle.
Cyber bullies (mostly 9-14 year olds), use anonymity of the web to mete out pain. Boys and girls are bullies and victims. Victims are targeted because they're considered different-usually overweight, small, have learning disabilities, or are overly sensitive.
One school held a conference for students, parents, teachers, and law enforcement officials. Alyssa (former victim), speaks at schools nationwide. "Kids are willing to openly discuss their problems in a group setting and want to help each other," she said, Presbyterian Horizons July/August 05-from "Schoolyard bullies Get Nastier Online," USA Today, March 6, 2005.
The world seeks peace, yet character assassination, by some adults appears to be the norm (via voice and pen of political processes). Isn't it possible that "some" young people are strongly influenced to emulate what they see and hear?
A powerful point to reverse this poison that is spewing into the environment of all: Adults can disagree, without being disagreeable!
Reflection on the Prince of Peace challenges us to exemplify respect toward all in private and public, in our speech and actions.
Sincerely,
Shirley George