No one likes a bully, least of all the perpetrator! We can teach our kids how to resist bullies through non-violence and reason, but the problem begins with the child who feels he or she gains power by lashing out at a presumed weaker target. What can we do?

1. After our anger, learn compassion and mercy.

2. Do not fear bullies as that is their source of power.

3. If a bully is terrorizing your child, seek out alternatives to institutional punishment.

4. Find out more about this bully so that he or she is a person to you, not an enemy.

5. In those cases where overt compassion doesn't win, protect your child at all costs, but try to avoid hate speech.

I know how hard this is! It is my daily pledge!