How to Effectively Fight Bullying

Currently, working it's way through the halls of the State Capitol, is the anti-bully legislation H.F. 826. 
Once again we see the attempt to legislate and control human behavior through rules, regulations and a faceless, penal, bureaucracy. Just like the many other attempts (increased cigarette and alcohol tax are a perfect example) to modify and 'nudge' humans into, well intended, (but shortsighted and tragically flawed) desired behaviors, we will see failure to solve the perceived problem.  

No one likes a bully, and most certainly no one desires to be the victim. But the flaws of human nature will prevail and flourish in a system of faceless bureaucratic rules and dictates. The only successful way to curb and change negative behavior is through personal intervention and accountability. The very real faces of the community (parents, teachers, friends, relatives) are the most persuasive tools we have to modify and correct negative and inappropriate behaviors, such as bullying. The very real presence of a positive support network (parents, teachers, friends and relatives) for a victim can and does succeed in uplifting, strengthening, and negating any potential damage a bully may inflict. It also has the very real possibility of changing the bully's own behavior. 

I believe the proposers of the aforementioned legislation have good, if not misguided, intentions. This is quite common in our culture. Good intentions do not necessarily make for good laws, but there are those who will attempt to force that path. One cannot legislate behavior without a threat attached. No, the successful way to combat and minimize, bullying is not to add another layer of a regulatory branch of a faceless government agency, nor is it downloading an 'app' on children's phones. (which i might add is just creepy and Orwellian 1984 at best)

Instead, a proven successful method of combating the negative manifestations of human nature is to fight it with love, support and kindness. Role model what you desire in our children. This must be done locally and personally to achieve success, and proof can be seen in action. Instead of costly phone apps, more 'mental health' professionals in our schools, increased layers of expensive bureaucracy, how about we adopt the low cost, low tech idea implemented in this particular school and community? Why not adopt what is proven to success and change? Yes, it demands personal intervention and a personal investment of time. But, I refuse to believe that this community is so disinterested and devoid of compassion as well as personal responsibility that it cannot be put in to action here. How about it neighbors? Are we up to the task? : 

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/2013/10/20/aunt-organizes-facebook-event-to-confront-nephews-bully-a...