Quite, Keith. You really are being a bit of a HumptyDumpty when it comes to defining 'persecution', Jim; and failing to admit that, even if one accepts all or any of your take on the word, there are still degrees of severity within the category.

You really must sort out this confusion of yours: or you shall not go to the Ball to meet Prince Charmin; and the Poodle might bite you on the bum!

~M~