I consider that backing down, in the face of bullying, shows one to be lily-livered and a sad person/persons.  It reminds me of the Gospel story in which Peter denied Jesus 3 times.  'The cock crowed and the Lord turned to look at Peter'. What did this look consist of?  What did it say?  It caused Peter to weep bitterly and mend his ways.  Maybe all those, with hatred or lack of courage in their hearts, would do well to ponder this Gospel message.  There is no place, whatsoever, in the Gospels for hatred, bullying, and wishing evil on those with whom one doesn't agree.  What we all need, as Christians, is to find meaning in Prayer and open our hearts to God without putting up any barriers between Him and us, and not claiming ever to know what He is thinking or deciding.  The human situation will always intrude, but that doesn't excuse us from building our relationship with God daily through Prayer, or beginning again, when we fail to live up to our baptismal promises.