BULLIES: Let's fight back

I’ll be 55 soon. I was severely bullied as a child: hit, kicked and called cruel names from kindergarten through high school. My cardinal sin was the same as anyone’s: I was different and, when my feelings were hurt, it showed. As I grew, I learned not to care what mean people said and avoid situations where I might be targeted. Those early predators slunk off, looking for easier prey.

I went to college and found new bullies who attacked you for your politics and values. I discovered what professors wanted and gave it to them. I almost never spoke in class or attended events which might draw attention to my values. When I slipped, I paid for it with reduced grades and harassment.

In the working world, I found it easier to avoid bullying. I endured a crazy-mean custodian who terrorized young women in our office, got back-stabbed in office politics, but when it is not a daily travail, it’s easier to ignore.

Just avoiding bullies is getting harder, though. Social Justice Warriors do their best to destroy their victims. Look at the SJW who targeted the gun shop in Olympia, Wash., and stalked their employees. SJWs block speakers, occupy Wall Street and commit online trolling, all as part of the same sick trend.

I have decided to draw a line. I hope to stand up to these bullies with dignity, without violence and show them for the thugs they are.

I invite you to join me.

CHRISTINA GINORIO

Coeur d’Alene