I must admit I have always been the type to speak up when I saw people acting badly, long before MS.

And I am far from perfect because I must also admit that I was momentarily envious of the handicapped parking when it first appeared, especially at the mall at Christmas. I quickly realized its importance.

I wonder if it leaves an impression when we speak up. I know I feel better.

I know my daughter had gotten in between a bully and his victim when she was in the middle school cafeteria, verbally chased the mean girl at camp into a cabin when she brought the obese girl's underwear out in order for others to have a laugh.

She has seen me go after people and maybe, if we cannot change the inconsiderate oaf, we can learn to defend ourselves...if only for the benefit of lowering our own blood pressure!

I think you're right. We may not change the oaf (know it's not my job anyway), but we show our children to stand up for themselves and those weaker. My kids have never been bullied (as far as I know!) and aren't bullies themselves. At 16 they include "different" kids in their lives They look at us and do model behaviors they observe. They are not mean, but never play a victim's role either. they're good kids.

Clapping hands loud and proud!!!!