When you think of bullying, you usually think of one child picking on another. But a disturbing video that went viral last week changed all that. It showed a group of students verbally assaulting a 68-year-old grandmother working as a bus monitor in a New York State school district. Four children, one of them the son of a police officer, hurled insults and threats at the lady, and even said they hoped her children would commit suicide. Despite the outrage this video generated, the victim says she does not want to press charges and only wants an apology. Ordinarily, I can see where turning the other cheek is the proper and even admirable course of action. But this time, I think actual punishment is more warranted. This wasn't the typical taunting and teasing, but cruel, harsh, specific threats targeting an adult. If these children escape punishment by simply apologizing, it will only reinforce the idea that they can do whatever they want as long as they give it lip service later. I'm Vanessa Oubre and that's my take. What's yours?
If you'd like to respond to this editorial email mytake@waff.com. Please include your name and the name of your town in your response.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 WorldNow and WAFF, a Raycom Media Station. 