Bumping Into My Childhood Bully 10 Years Later
Reflections on bullying and how it affects us.
I was teased by multiple kids throughout my childhood. David was my peak nemesis, a never-ending source of pain, who repeatedly shoved me and randomly punched me in the stomach at will. The physical pain wasn’t the only problem. It was the constant feeling of powerlessness and isolation that hurt more.
The trouble was often preceded by taunts from behind.
“Hey, wimp.”
“Hey, wimpy boy. I’m talking to you. Turn around.”
Sadly, he only picked fights when onlookers were available. Humiliation was a huge part of the appeal, which feels fairly sadistic in hindsight. I was always afraid to fight back and was completely embarrassed by my cowardice.
In my defense, David was huge for an 11-year-old. Was it worse to fight back and lose worse? Or cut your losses and just take it? I always chose the latter.
I don’t know that I’d describe the experiences as traumatic. But indulging those memories, even as I am now, doesn’t put me in a good mood. They are a far throw from my happy place.
Yes, David occasionally got in trouble. But never enough to alter his behavior. Teachers have a long a spotted history of policing bullying…
