sideviews
Shake it off – Sonia Devi
At the end of every week, I reflect on myself, wading through the cesspit of friendship, love, ideas and hate and then convert all this into writing.
As I enter a new chapter in my life, I’ve met lots of people. There’s always a good lesson in meeting new people – enlarging your circle of friends. Although there are times you don’t match with their likes, there are some with whom you just blend well.
In a positive study environment, people accept differences and work together towards the common good. However the environment I’m in is filled with different personalities and I’ve came across someone who rubs me the wrong way.
Though the "one" has publicly cyber-bullied me, this negative emotion has never consumed or drained me in any sort of way and I never allow it to take a toll on my study performance.
Nevertheless, it can grow into hostility and cause an unpleasant study atmosphere.
I’ve personally had friends who’ve gone through all sort of cyber-bullying and ended up isolated for years and considering suicide.
I believe in addressing significant issues promptly. You do not have to tolerate unprofessional behaviour from someone who dislikes you.
Unacceptable behaviour includes harassment, overt or covert aggression, spreading insidious or harmful gossip or rumours, intimidation, shouting or yelling, humiliating and other bullying tactics. We are so much more sacred, valuable and powerful than we have been led to believe.
If you or a loved one is currently the victim of bullying, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Let it out, talk to a parent, teacher, counsellor or other trusted adult. Seeing a counsellor does not mean there is something wrong with you. It simply means you’re allowing yourself to be heard.
Don’t make a bullying incident worse by dwelling on it or reading the message over and over. Instead, delete any bullying messages and focus on positive experiences. There are many wonderful things about you, so be proud of who you are! As the saying goes, "you can’t fly like an eagle if you hang out with turkeys". – February 20, 2016.
* Sonia Devi reads The Malaysian Insider.
* This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insider.
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