If you know, like or admire someone whose actions around kids is causing concern, here are some ways you should NOT respons …

By David Clohessy, Religion Unplugged

“Last week, millions of believers and nonbelievers across the globe were shocked when a video went viral showing the Dalai Lama asking a boy to suck his tongue.”Last week, millions of believers and nonbelievers across the globe were shocked when a video went viral showing the Dalai Lama asking a boy to suck his tongue.

“It’s been described as a ‘playful’ exchange. We’re not so sure. The more appropriate word might well be ‘creepy.’

“In education circles, an incident like this is often called a teachable moment. But the real lessons to be learned from this video could be titled ‘How NOT to respond to possible child sexual abuse’ or ‘How NOT to respond to a troubling sexual situation with a child.’

“For more than three decades, I’ve been monitoring clergy sexual abuse. I’ve seen all kinds of responses to abuse reports and suspicions by accused men and their supporters. The reactions of the Dalai Lama’s spokesperson and admirers are every bit as troubling as his hug, kiss and request of the boy itself.

“If you know, like or admire someone whose actions around kids is causing concern, here are some of the ways you should NOT respond…””If you know, like or admire someone whose actions around kids is causing concern, here are some of the ways you should NOT respond…”

By David Clohessy, Religion Unplugged — Read more …