Reply #116: The bully has a knife, has threatened his mother--I think you know you have to do something. [View All]

[bobbolink]

I don't envy you. You are certainly in one hard rock situation, and I wish you well! (And I'm sorry this was moved to the lounge!)

I think, as a mother, you know somewhere inside you that this is a tragedy just waiting to happen. Bullies + knives don't usually have a good ending. All the advice telling you to get your kid to fight back when the bully has a knife is foolhardy, IMO.

I agree that many times kids, (and husbands!) have to learn the hard way. I agree that sometimes you have to stand back and let them find out for themselves.

But this is not just talking about a possible bloody nose--this could have very severe consequences. Learning in this way often comes to a bad end.

I thought the suggestion to have a neighbor or friend report it was good, because then if you find out the principal really doesn't care, you know that's a dead end, and that you have to take it further.

Best wishes to you, and I hope you let us know how this turns out!