Judith, Chapter 5, Verse 23
“We are not afraid of the
Israelites,” they said, “for they are a powerless people, incapable of a strong
defense.
Such is the mindset of
bullies. I remember as a child I got my first lesson in why one should avoid
such mentalities. As a child we had a rough and tumble playground and mayhem
during recess was the order of the day. As a child during recess one needed to
run and make up for all the mind numbing instructions of our dedicated
teachers. One such game was called North and South. In this game we would line
up and charge each other and attack. The North I joined and we all lined up for
the melee. Almost as one all at once we started running and they started
running as we came closer I got a little frighten but then I sighted a little
guy that looked pretty powerless and came on strong. As I was about to knock
him down and trample or tackle him when suddenly he grabbed my wrist and using
my weight and energy swung me around three times and then let me fly. I landed
hard and crumpled in the dust. Lesson learned don’t be a bully or underestimate
the powerless.
Today is world refugee
day and today just like in Judith’s time the Israelite's refused to be a refugee
and stood their ground; just like the little guy that used my own energy and
power to defeat me even though I was twice his size. Israel was different for
they knew that if they were faithful to God; ultimately they would win the war.
Bullying[1]
Speak up – Tell someone what’s happening – your parents, an older brother or sister, your grand- parents, teacher, school chaplain, a friend
Chin up – Don’t let the bullies see you’re upset. But be careful about taking them on, as you could be injured (or accused of being a bully yourself)
Join up – Don’t believe that everyone is against you. It’s not true. Persevere with making your own friends.
If you know someone who’s being bullied
Speak up – Don’t let someone suffer because you won’t do the right thing. If you can’t challenge the bully, tell a responsible adult
Link up – Talk to your friends about what’s going on. Agree that you won’t stand idly by. Unity is strength
Meet up – Show your support for the person being bullied. Include her/him in your activities. Give them a chance.
Daily Devotions/Prayers
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