I Know It’s Not
Just Me on this one…
Last week, I shared a story of a
young woman who jumped to her death from the George Washington Bridge in New
York. It seemed she saw no alternative
to dealing with a handful of colleagues who were bullying her.
These “colleagues” are
women! They are not children who can be
excused for simply not knowing any better.
WOMEN!
I had the pleasure of speaking with
a member of The International Women’s Leadership Association (TheIWLA) yesterday. We spoke about the outrage of bullying,
particularly as it is rampant among we who were once known as the “fairer”
sex. Well, there is nothing remotely
fair about anyone who preys upon someone perceived to be weaker, less worthy, or in the
“spirit” of the manifesto-driven, less “entitled”. (Another topic you shouldn’t get me started on!)
With her permission and her
blessing, this wonderful women with whom I spoke, a victim of bullying herself, has granted me the right to share some of what we shared by way of our
follow-up, written comments. Thank you, Constancia.
Please read…
Hi Beth,
Just wanted to tell you it was pleasant to hear your
voice. Just wanted to share with you after we talked, a young lady who I
am considering for a position in my office told me her daughter was bullied at
school and she attempted suicide. Again, bullying is a real issue, it is
rampant and I want to join with others in helping. Thanks for your words
of inspiration. It has been a challenge since we last talked but I
am still "shutting out the noise and pressing on." This happens
to be the title of my book, a work in progress. There is a lot of
negative chatter and negative energy right now. If we allow this to engulf our being,
it can blind us to our purpose and goals. I will not be manipulated
into the whirlwinds of life because I remain mindful of my
Creator. I am the change agent!
Have a great
evening!
Best regards,
Constancia Stewart
My
response…
Dear Constancia,
It was lovely to speak with you
today, as well; thank you for your kind words…
As you know, I have zero-tolerance
for bullying; I loathe it is every one of its forms.
Your message, is such a sad one;
one too frequently told.
Thankfully, in this case, it is not
too late to do something.
We of TheIWLA stand ready to
play whatever role we can in the worthy battle against bullying. We will
continue to blog about it and, with your blessing, I would like to use our
correspondence for that purpose.
You may believe, as I do, that
there are no co-incidences. So, how did you come to be named Constancia;
it’s a strong and purposeful name! The Creator you remain mindful of
apparently had big things in store for you, thus a name that represents
diligence, persistence, one who does not easily gives up: “the constant one”,
Constancia.
You are wagering a big battle
but it’s a worthy one and one that countless others join you in. We join
you and we will continue to shed light on this awful situation that, so sadly,
seems to have become a female virus.
I look forward to reading your
book. I am sure it will help many. Keep telling your story; keep
telling the stories of others.
With my most sincere regards and
in support of your work,
Beth Johnston
Executive Director
TheIWLA
I feel strongly that there are others readings
this who can relate to Constancia. I
want you to know that TheIWLA is going
to continue to advocate against bullying
in every way possible. I ask you to
join us, share your stories, join local groups and pray. Pray for the victims. Pray for the bullies; they are the ones most
in need of our prayers and redemption.
I know it’s not just me….let’s do
all we can to end bullying. Mentor young
girls. Hold women accountable for their
actions and may another one of us never choose death over life because of a
bully.
To the victims, I say, “God bless you”;
to the bullies, I say, God help you”!
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