Have you ever encountered a hurtful comment online? Let’s be honest; we’ve all seen them. But how many of you have faced such comments directly aimed at you? It stings, doesn’t it? It’s disheartening to think that a stranger, from the safety of their own home, can belittle you based on a photo you shared or something you wrote. That’s exactly how I felt when I found myself in the crosshairs of online bullying.
A few months ago, I penned an article about the unraveling of a close friendship that deteriorated right after I discovered I was expecting my first child. To maintain discretion, I kept the friend’s identity and details private, sharing only snippets of our conversations. However, once the article went live, I was bombarded with cruel comments on my social media from relatives of this former friend. They unleashed a barrage of insults—attacking my character and my role as a mother—only to later erase their comments. If you felt so strongly, why retract your words?
Yet, you know what? The following morning, I woke up to my kids’ hugs and laughter, just as I always did. All the joy and positivity in my life remained intact, despite those hurtful comments. Yes, it stung that these women, who knew nothing about me, would insult me so freely. But their negativity didn’t alter my reality or my identity as a mother, wife, and friend.
They chose to attack me from behind a screen instead of addressing me directly. In such situations, the best course of action is to let it slide. I could have let their venomous words affect me, but I chose to rise above it. I embraced my identity and felt empowered in my roles, rather than letting their words hold power over me.
It’s natural to feel shaken when someone hurls hurtful words your way, especially if they resonate with you. But remember, don’t let the negativity of others overshadow your own light. If you ever find yourself facing online bullying that escalates to threats, take it seriously. Document everything; don’t engage or retaliate. Share it with loved ones and consider reporting it to authorities.
My mother sent me a quote that encapsulated the lesson I learned: “Don’t get angry or enraged or insulted. Rise above the bulls**t. Flick your light back on, and shine it brighter than ever, and fall so deeply in love with your own life that anyone who tried to wrong you becomes a laughable, ridiculous, distant memory.”
Isn’t that empowering? The idea of loving your life so deeply that negativity fades into a distant memory resonates strongly.
Online bullying is ridiculous. While scrolling through comments, I often find myself astonished by the things people say to strangers. Most of these commentators would never dare say those things face-to-face. It’s disheartening to see women tearing each other down rather than lifting one another up. When will this end? When will we stop judging each other’s choices, especially regarding motherhood? Whether you choose to breastfeed or work, it’s your life and your happiness matters.
This is a safe haven for you. As mothers and as women, I stand with you. Your choices are valid and right for your family. You possess the strength to rise above the negativity. You will.
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In summary, online bullying is a challenge that many face, and it’s important to remember to rise above it. Our identities are forged by our actions and choices, not by the hurtful words of others. Embrace who you are, and let the negativity roll off your back.