We’ve played what we call the “White Elephant” gift exchange for years and I’ve never seen an adult swipe from a kid. Good God. I’m glad you called him out. We need more of that.

@Bruce—good insight; yes, there’s more to the story. These are good people who’s courage wasn’t there for them in a moment when they needed it. And no, the sway held by Mr. Bully is not based on anything “real” like a bucket of money. It’s a “might makes right” mentality, pure and simple.

http://blog.threestarleadership.com/2009/12/16/121609-midweek-look-at-the-independent-business-blogs.aspx

Wally Bock

As for the adults who were present, Shame on You All!

Is there more to the story? Did this old Grinch have something held over everyone’s head – like their job… or being cut out of the Will….?

There must have been something holding them back…. Otherwise, they are equally mean people. I don’t believe in calling people shameful…. But that is Shameful.

People who are in a group are far less likely than individuals to call out a bad actor or take action to stop something that’s wrong. Plenty of research documents this phenomenon which means that you need more courage if you’re in the group.

People in today’s American society fear confrontation more than just about anything. We have battalions of crappy bosses out there who won’t tell a team member that they’re not performing because it requires confrontation. And if you’re in a social circle, there’s the additional fear that entire relationships would be ruined.

It’s also far easier to know what should be done in a situation like you describe than it is to actually do it. I’ve been there and done it both ways. Not everyone can be brave and not everyone who is brave is brave all the time and in every situation.

What you call for is exactly what should happen. But even though it’s right, it’s never easy.