Standing up to Tormentors

“Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.”—Luke 10:19 (KJV)

Name calling.

Swearing.

Arguing.

Bullying of any kind.

They happen everywhere. The upper levels of corporations and organizations often get involved. The stakes become higher. The divisions become more public.

Such behavior is reminiscent of playing in the soil as a child—or having mud fights. The problem is when you throw dirt, some of it sticks to you. Nobody comes out squeaky clean. Here are two thoughts to ponder:

• Why are adults taking part in children’s games (metaphorically speaking)?
• Does attacking other people make an individual seem weaker, or stronger, in the end? Isn’t aggression a bid for more power? Think about it.

Chihuahua dogs are tiny. They are known for barking and trying to assert their authority. That doesn’t suddenly transform them into bigger dogs.  Look at those big, brown eyes! So darling!

A purebred Rottweiler adult is not cute and cuddly. This animal doesn’t need to make noise to be feared and respected.

Putting Bullies in Their Place

Make Your Bed: Little Things That can Change Your Life is a book with engaging stories and lifestyle tips. This is an excellent memoir by a retired U.S. 4-star admiral. His name is William H. McRaven.

The admiral supervised the facility where deposed Iraqi dictator, Saddam Hussein, was held. He was in the room when the leaders of the new government came in to talk to Saddam. Keep in mind, the former head of Iraq was behind bars. He was guarded by one of the most elite military forces in the world: U.S. Navy SEALs (Sea, Air, and Land Teams) Hussein lived in a room with one bed, and little else.

What happened? The two parties yelled at each other. Saddam sneered and acted like he still had power. His successors were obviously intimidated by him.

How was this false show of authority put down? McRaven commanded all those guarding Hussein to keep silent. They weren’t supposed to respond to him at all. When the admiral entered the prisoner’s room once a day, he also said nothing.  McRaven motioned Saddam to rise to greet him, and then sit back down.  After a while, the powerless man followed this routine automatically.

My Conclusion

“Nobody can make you feel inferior without your consent.”—Eleanor Roosevelt

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“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”-- 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV)

Are you giving away your power?