Karate

   I grew up in a small mining town where bullying started early. Just about every kid in my class experienced some level of abuse from the same bullies.
   When my dad found out he got angry. Looking down at me he scolded me to fight back. I just stood there. I remember thinking “I don’t know what to do.” I said nothing.
    In my town, there were no karate schools; I don’t think I even knew the term in those days. There were wrestling and boxing programs however, but I was afraid to ask to be put in one. He wouldn’t have done it anyway; we didn’t have funds for such activities.
    The stress was overwhelming. I hated school to end, knowing the bullying was waiting. Sitting, watching the last minutes of the last class was torture. I’ll never forget it.
    In hindsight, this was a blessing that has helped me be a better teacher today. I know exactly how it feels to be bullied. I know if you fight back it will start slowing down and eventually stop. But kids need help in this area. Yes, like me, many will figure it out the hard way. Unfortunately, many do not; bad things then can happen. Kids need instruction.