All this talk about bullying has me thinking.

At first I thought I’d write a book, a non-fiction book, kind of a how-to guide for all those geeky nerdy bullied kids that remind me of myself when I was growing up.

But then I thought what kid would pick up a book like that? It would be like admitting that they’re a victim.

So now I’m thinking of instead starting another blog, an advice blog, on how to go from being bullied to being brave. In fact that’s what I would call it: Bullied to Brave.

Problem is, I can’t do it right now, I’d have to do it when I get back from Hajj.

Yes, I think it would be very good. It would be about learning social skills, all the mistakes that such kids make when dealing with aggressive peers–and don’t I know from experience!

It’ll tackle some of the stuff I deal with in my presentations, but in a more one on one kind of way.

Well, like I said, it’ll have to wait till I get back.

I won’t advertise it, I’ll just do it quietly. I’m sure word will get around. Or maybe I can just make it a regular feature of this blog.

I’m sure a lot of teachers read this and they could point kids in the direction.

It would sure be something positive to contribute, and I do hope that it will help some of those kids.

I’m no psychologist, but I’ve experienced enough bullying and seen enough bullying to have a pretty good idea of how to counter it.

I’m sure not bullied any more.

I can’t think of one aspect of my life where I have any bullying whatsoever, and that’s a far cry from where I was growing up. And if I can do it, most likely most kids can do it too.

I’ll also talk about self esteem, frankly and honestly.

And the difference between being assertive and aggressive.

Definitely a project to start when I get back.

Hajj is supposed to be such a transformational point in your life. A turning point upon which your character and even your soul is supposed to pivot in a new direction.

I think it would be very apt if I started this project when I get back, insha Allah.

And with this blog, I’d give people permission to copy my thoughts for distribution to any student or person who’s being bullied as long as they acknowledge the original source–moi!

But there’s one thing I need to do before I complete my preparations for Hajj. I’ve been doing it privately with people I know on a daily basis, but I think it’s time to send out a blanket apology.

Now this might not apply to most people reading this, but I’ll go ahead and put it out there anyway.

Before one goes for Hajj, they’re supposed to clear all debts, financial and personal debts, and in this it is meant that in addition to getting one’s fiscal house in order, if one has offended or hurt other people, one is supposed to clear that debt before they go to face God.

I hereby apologize to anyone I may have offended and hurt in the past.

I really will be trying to turn over a new leaf, be more careful of the things I say and try not to hurt or offend you, and anyone else.

I hope, if I have offended you, that you can find it in your heart to forgive me.

Please believe me when I say that I wish nothing but peace to you and everyone out there.

Peace and good will to all.

Ameen.