Bullies No Longer Just Take Milk Money

One morning, on YouTube, I came across a video of a martial arts demonstration performed by a less-than-athletic, but well-intentioned, martial artists. While I admit that it wasn't the most skilled of presentations I have seen, it really appeared that they were sincerely trying their hardest and putting themselves on the line for everyone to see. Probably none of the people in this video would ever be world champions, but that was not the point, they had some skills and certainly were benefiting from their martial arts training.

Now, my issue was not the video itself. My sincere concern was with the comments below the video where people could post comments. And to my dismay, I saw several comments like "Try that in the UFC,” “Look at those losers,” and “Take a break and go have a cupcake" …one bullying and discouraging comment after another.

I wanted to say, ‘C'mon friends! If you do this kind of thing, it’s time to knock it off!’ Were these commenters not aware that this was a clear example of cyber bullying? And worse, that these comments were obviously not just posted by kids who might not know better? This is exactly what we as martial arts instructors are working hard to stop with our teaching. Bullying comes in all shapes and sizes… and platforms. Not to say these comments were from martial artists themselves, but I wish to have witnessed our community rise above the negativity and dissolve it with overall support for those who were sincerely putting themselves into their video.

We should always communicate the message that while constructive feedback is one thing, blatant disrespect towards others is yet another and should not be tolerated. Trying to look good by making others look bad is not a good way to live your life.

Be wary of the negativity that so easily exists in the online world and instead embrace and empower positive attitudes that will lend motivation to those bold enough to share their hopes.