I was an awkward girl with a huge hearing aid and the only deaf student in our school. in grade school I beat the bullies up, I couldn't stand to stand by and watch, human or animal get kicked around. In 3rd grade a 6th grader was picking on my friend so I whipped him, he didn't pick on anyone else for the rest of the year. I wasn't big but I was strong from my horse.

In middle school there was one girl who tried to bully me, and many others. I would stare her down and come between anyone she tried to bully, she carried a knife and implied she would use it, pushed people, tripped them, shoved books and verbally intimidated most people. I channeled Mr Spock, I wouldn't let her see any emotion. Until one day in art class she wanted a file I was using and was trying to use physical means of getting it. I asked her if she really wanted it. She said yes so I gave it to her, right on the back of her hand. When the teacher called me on it I exploded telling him and all the other teachers had no right to say anything because they all knew she bullied many students and they did nothing to stop her. She was never a problem after that.

I still can't stand bullies or parents who hit their kids. If I see it I call them on it. Odd given that I no longer stand up for myself.