When I was a kid, parents, teachers and seemingly every politician on TV pushed the same message: Don’t Do Drugs. Just Say No. These days the in vogue slogans are ones against bullying.

Not to be flip about either issue. Drugs and bullying are serious problems and I’m glad we work to address them. I just wonder in 10 years from now, what society ill will we all ban together to quash?

But back to bullying, there’s been many high-profile deaths because of bullying in schools, talk about bullying in the workplace, and it’s hitting the blogosphere. Specifically the momblogosphere. I too am picking up my iTorch (so to speak) and taking a pledge against cyberbullying.

Basically it comes down to what Thumper said: “If you can’t say something nice… don’t say nothing at all.” This doesn’t mean we only write about roses and rainbows, but it does mean we have to respect our differences.

I find that sometimes people think they’re being real or honest, when really they’re just being rude. I admit, I enjoy my tell-it-like-it-is personality, but I try to be very conscientious not to cross the line.

Since Mother’s Day is around the corner, I thought this would be a good time to show support for my fellow mamas. I’ve taken the pledge below and welcome you to too.

 The Mom Pledge

I am a proud Mommy Blogger. I will conduct myself with integrity in all my blogging activities. I can lead by example.

I pledge to treat my fellow moms with respect. I will acknowledge that there is no one, “right” way to be a good Mom. Each woman makes the choices best for her family.

I believe a healthy dialogue on important issues is a good thing. I will welcome differing opinions when offered in a respectful, non-judgmental manner. And will treat those who do so in kind.

I stand up against online bullying. My blog is my space. I will not tolerate comments that are rude, condescending or disrespectful.

I refuse to give those who attack a platform. I will remove their remarks from my blog with no mention or response. I can take control.

I want to see moms work together to build one another up, not tear each other down. Words can be used as weapons. I will not engage in that behavior.

I affirm that we are a community. As a member, I will strive to foster goodwill among moms. Together, we can make a difference.

*Update: OK so I had to edit this post after some thought. I will not bully other moms and I will uphold the other principles of the pledge, but I can’t do the integrity thing. It’s just not in me. I still enjoy fart jokes, poop stories and other things crass. And let’s be honest, there’s no integrity in that, but it’s me and that won’t change.