I might be repeating myself, but in view of recent events, it is worth repeating.
***************
From time immemorial there have always been bullies.
They are low self-esteem individuals who use verbal or physical abuse to compensate for their own insecurity.
Bullying often starts innocently by teasing. But the thin line between teasing and bullying is quickly crossed, especially when the target of harassment neglects to fight back.
Bullies are “agents provocateurs” who should be confronted early on.
Reluctance to indict only further encourages their aggressive behavior.
Most people (or nations) are often hesitant to confront troublemakers, but a timely stand to aggression is the only way to prevent further aggravation.
If in 1936 the French would have had the nerves to oppose the German remilitarization of the Rhineland, it could have stopped Hitler cold in his tracks and maybe even prevented World War II.
Similarly, the Russian provocation in Ukraine should be immediately met by a show of strength. And so should the rampage of ISIS in Iraq and Syria.
Appeasement, or procrastination is often seen as a sign of weakness.
Through a politic of appeasement “Peace in our time” Neville Chamberlain’s gave England precious little time to prepare for the Nazi onslaught.
“We, the German Führer and Chancellor, and the British Prime Minister, have had a further meeting today and are agreed in recognizing that the question of Anglo-German relations is of the first importance for two countries and for Europe.
We regard the agreement signed last night and the Anglo-German Naval Agreement as symbolic of the desire of our two peoples never to go to war with one another again.”
Less than a year later, Germany invaded Poland triggering World War Two.
In our own backyard blatant provocation should not be ignored. It should be dealt with promptly and forcefully.
The best way to deal with troublemakers is to shun them, to avoid and ignore them.
Snubbing a bully is the most effective way of punishing an attention-getting dunce.
Sometimes, pressured by peers, the bully will offer apologies.
But one should be wary of hollow expressions of regret. They are often a convenient way to avoid retribution.
Apparent contrition can mollify some people, but it is wise to remember that a leopard can hardly change its spots.
Once a bully, always a bully.
Personally, I think that what a “fouteur de merde” (shit stirrer) needs most desperately is psychiatric help.
Alain
