In every corner of life, bullies exist. They come in many forms—some are larger in stature, some use their social status, political influence, or financial power to intimidate others. But make no mistake, these individuals often reveal the depths of their own insecurity, confusion, and weakness. Here, as an editor and as a former U.S. Marine, I want to make one thing clear: we will not be intimidated, nor will we cower to the tactics of bullies.
In 1990, I joined the Marine Corps for several reasons, but a key one was rooted in my high school experience. Like many, I had a bully—someone who made my teenage years uncomfortable, not because he was tougher or more capable, but simply because he was bigger. I was a smaller man, standing about 5’6″ then, and still today I’ve only grown smaller with age. But size, as I later learned, isn’t the real measure of strength.
The Marine Corps taught me lessons that shaped the person I am today. After graduating from boot camp and training for combat, I left the military knowing I was no longer afraid of anyone. Armed with that confidence, I even sought out the bully from my high school days, only to discover he was serving an 18-year prison sentence. Though I never had the chance to confront him, I realized something profound: there is no victory in violence.
Fighting may seem like an immediate solution, but in truth, nobody wins. Fights bring pain, blood, broken bones, and, in some cases, death. As I’ve matured, I’ve come to understand that true strength lies not in physical confrontation but in restraint. Knowing that I could win a fight if necessary gives me the security to never feel the need to fight at all.
Bullies thrive on fear, seeking to push others down to raise themselves up. But we, as a community and as individuals, do not have to bend to their pressure. Bullies, whether they’re in high school hallways, corporate boardrooms, or political offices, are often the ones who are weakest—hiding behind their size, money, or influence because they lack the courage to face others on equal terms.
Today, my high school bully, Tony, is likely out of prison. His life, changed by his choices, stands in stark contrast to mine. I live confidently, securely, and with determination to do what is right. Bullies don’t control my world—they never have, and they never will.
To anyone reading this who has been bullied, I offer these words: find your strength, not in retaliation, but in your resilience. Know that bullies do not define who you are; they are a reflection of their own inadequacies. Stand firm in your values, and never let fear dictate your path. As an editor, as a Marine, and as someone who has walked this road, I stand with you. Together, we will never be intimidated by the weak.
