A. F.-V. and the Bullies: My Battle with the Bullies and My Battle for My Soul

Everything and everybody we encounter in life shape us and influence us to a certain degree. In my case, the usual suspects apply—family, coworkers, friends, and acquaintances—as well as people whom I’ve only briefly interacted with or seen in the street. I’ve also been influenced by a myriad of experiences relating to home life, work, commuting, hobbies, vacations, and leisure time. Current affairs—local, regional, national, and global—have also shaped me during my fifty-odd years upon this earth. My acquisition of a religious faith during my later years has also had a profound influence upon me—a very positive influence. Physical health problems that have dogged me on and off since early childhood have also had a profound influence upon me—a very negative influence. However, there remains one elephant in the room: bullies.