On Bullying

Jesus did teach us to turn the other cheek, But never suggested we ought to be weak In those instances of obvious wrongdoing He sent the moneychangers gelt strewing, And he called out the miserable hypocrite In the strongest of language, as he saw fit. Keeping the peace is good, I certainly agree, But not at the expense of a bully’s spree, Who goes about inflicting pain unchecked, Comes the time when they must be decked. For bullying indicates feelings of superiority While it actually cloaks an inner inferiority. We need to show bullies they’re not “all that,” Sometimes it calls for knocking off their hat. Letting them know we will be calling their bluff When we are fed up with their hateful stuff, Not allowing them to feign self-righteousness As they hurtfully nose into another’s business. It is always preferable to be meek and mild But not when an adult acts like a spoiled child Taking pleasure in causing others’ distresses Probably struggling with their own sad messes And acting like their way is the only way While refusing to allow their victims a say! Written December 8, 2022

Copyright © | Year Posted 2022



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Date: 12/29/2022 5:15:00 PM
So true Milton. I look back on this great poem . Rest in Peace :)
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Date: 12/10/2022 4:31:00 AM
This is why it is tough to Bully me - I know they really do not like themselves and they are hurting, so this resonated "For bullying indicates feelings of superiority While it actually cloaks an inner inferiority."
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L Milton Hankins
Date: 12/10/2022 8:21:00 AM
That's the best way to look at it. I try to move on, but it's hard when someone just keeps it up.
Date: 12/8/2022 8:22:00 PM
Well stated opinion, Mr. Milt. ~;o)
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L Milton Hankins
Date: 12/9/2022 5:46:00 AM
Thanks so much for your thoughts, Arlo.
Date: 12/8/2022 2:27:00 PM
This is so well stated. Maybe it should be "turn to the other cheek but don't be too meek". Enjoyed. Nancy
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Hankins Avatar
L Milton Hankins
Date: 12/8/2022 7:07:00 PM
Well, I was hesitant to play around with Jesus's words, Nancy.
Date: 12/8/2022 1:55:00 PM
I think after a while one gets tired of turning the other cheek and you sometimes have to stand up to them but even then some are so thick skinned it doesn't register with them. Tom
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L Milton Hankins
Date: 12/8/2022 7:09:00 PM
I think you are probably right about this, Tom, but I'm inclined to choose my response rather than to predicate it on their skin condition. Eh?
Date: 12/8/2022 11:38:00 AM
I guess this was written because the nastiness continues in the soup. I joined in 2015 and during those years I've had to go quite a few rounds with people who tried to bully me and others for a number of reasons. What a pity those who lack strength of character, lack of being able to write good poetry, and who knows what other reasons, choose to wreak havoc in a domain that should be a brotherhood to promote poetic art. I'm glad to see you highlight the issue. Goodness knows I tried many times.
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Nancy Kaufman
Date: 12/8/2022 2:30:00 PM
Dear Lin, I am so sorry to hear that you have had such a negative experience. I guess I've been quite fortunate to have either no comment or very positive ones here with my little writes. I truly hope things get better here for you as there are some very supportive soupers out there. Nancy
Hankins Avatar
L Milton Hankins
Date: 12/8/2022 12:14:00 PM
Yes, unfortunately, we still do have a few people here on the Soup who are jealous, vindictive, and small-minded, and who persist in throwing shade at those people who are enjoying themselves and achieving some level of success. It's a shame. If they would spend half that time improving their skills, they, too, would excel. Thank you, Lin.
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