October is Anti-Bullying Month

Bullying can happen in families, it can happen at school, and it can occur in the professional realm—manifesting as manipulation, exclusion, intimidation, or abuse of power. Whether it's a child being tormented at recess, a sibling belittled at home, an employee undermined at work, or an artist being dismissed, copied, or ostracized within their creative community, bullying leaves lasting scars. That’s why Anti-Bullying Month is not just about awareness—it’s a call to action. It urges us to recognize the signs, speak up for ourselves and others, and foster environments where respect and empathy are the norm, not the exception.

Bullying often stems from a deep sense of insecurity, a need for control, or unresolved personal pain. Bullies may seek to elevate themselves by diminishing others, using tactics like humiliation, exclusion, gaslighting, or intimidation to assert dominance. Their behavior can be repetitive and calculated, targeting individuals they perceive as vulnerable or threatening to their own status. In creative communities, this might look like dismissing someone’s work, spreading rumors, or sabotaging opportunities. Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward breaking the cycle and creating spaces where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to speak up.

In the face of bullying, it’s essential to hold onto your sense of worth and dignity. You are not defined by someone else’s insecurity. It’s important to surround yourself with people who uplift you, engage in activities that reinforce your strengths, and remind yourself of your value. Confidence doesn’t mean never feeling hurt—it means choosing to rise above the hurt and continue showing up as your authentic self. Your voice matters, your presence matters, and your resilience is a quiet but powerful act of defiance against those who try to diminish you.

Keep creating your beautiful art. Remember, you have value—not just in what you make, but in who you are. And know this: there are people who see you, who recognize your work, and who deeply appreciate the light you bring into the world.