Don’t feed the trolls.
It is the first rule of blogging. Don’t engage with the haters. Don’t let them get in your head. If someone leaves you a nasty comment, you move along without reply, because they are not worth the anger, frustration and, most of all, your precious time.
I haven’t written in five months because I let someone tell me that no one cares what I write about and people who read my posts are actually laughing behind my back.
So I haven’t written, because what if they were right? What if my content has been one big joke to the Internet?
Years ago I was in an abusive relationship and I can assure you that the names he called me hurt far more than any slap in the face. No bloody wound feels as bad as being called worthless. Five months ago, that’s exactly how I felt.
Today, though, I suddenly woke up and realized that as much as I love my readers and the people who have surrounded me through blogging, I don’t write for anyone but me. If you don’t want to read these words, don’t read them. I don’t really care. Now the troll can say I’m selfish. So be it.
I am going to write again. I’m going to write because it’s my creative outlet. I’m going to write because it clears my head. I’m going to write to prove to my daughter that you can’t let someone control you through their hate. I’m going to write because I am better for it.
This is my start.
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KATHY M
Glad you are back. I smile behind your back 🙂
Liz
Welcome back, we missed you. Trolls are stupid, let’s throw rocks at them.
BusyDad
You made some really good friends through your writing. That trumps all!
Melisa
Trolls are cowards. And that’s understating it by a long shot. Welcome back! XOXOXOX
Amie
Yay! And I’m gonna read it because you’re good at it. And if I’m laughing, it’s not at you–it’s because of you, and hopefully with you.
Toni
Huh? I love your writing! And as someone else said, writing has brought you people that love you, like me for example – and so this troll deprived me of your wonderful writing?!? Let me at ’em!!! Looking forward to your posts – as always! XO
Kir
I am so proud of you for this. You are better than any troll, than any voice that tries to silence yours
I’m here, I’m reading and I’m so glad you’re back. ❤
Leigh Ann
Who in the world would say such a thing? That person must feel so badly about themselves that they feel the need to make others feel like shit too. I’m sure that’s nothing you haven’t heard yet from your amazing tribe, but it bears repeating. Your words matter. You matter. I’m glad you are back. 🙂
Moon Leady
You are loved! So glad you’re back.
I know exactly what hell you mean about words hurting worse than being hit. I have been going through that myself and I would wish it on no one. Thankfully the clouds are lifting and I am stronger than I ever was.
We are phoenixes <3 ….and we can poop on all those trolls heh
Vivian
It’s about time, Diane!! I know those words have just been BOILING to get out of you and onto here where they make me feel good! Hugs to all 3 of you.
Robin T. Galt
Please keep writing.
My blog is similar to yours in some ways — I flush out thoughts, share what’s on my mind, explore my journey with living with a mental illness, and let my feelings roll free.
Please keep writing. There are non-trolly people who appreciate what you do.
Jenn
Glad you’re back – I’ve missed your posts dropping into my mailbox. I LOVE your writing. trolls suck, just kick em to the curb.
And now I’ve got an Alanis Morissette earworm. Which is better than the “Damn, Daniel” my kid put in there.
leelee
Momo! THANK freakin GOD you’re back. If we focused on the negative/haters/jealous/self serving/righteous, socialmedia obsessed gen! Then we would fall into the newly over medicated 20 something bishes who thrive on “winning” by putting others below them. I say, don’t sweat the small, mindless, and often cruel trolls that thrive on abusing others. They do this so they NEVER focus on their own inabilities or defective, DESENSITIZED existence. Steps off my dusty soapbox…Ok..listen, I have read your shit for ages, somedays, you actually saved my broken heart <3…truth, you inspire! Yes, YOU! So, honestly, I LOOKED daily for a post. I often giggle at social media's up and coming mass of bad spellers, label obsessed, materialistic and totally over-texted society who are quite unable to have a face to face,or a PHONE convo with other humans. I sit and watch them on a cell phone for more than HALF their day, tuning out the real, the good and the much needed conversations that I live and breathe daily. NEVER let anyone stop you from being Momo….ever. The end, Love, leelee
Momo Fali
You just made my day, my dear.
Robin T. Galt
That was a fantastic comment filled with truths.
Mona Darling
mwah! Go you!
Marianne Baker Ball
So happy to see this!!! I decided recently that I write for myself as well. Blogging gives us a voice, a forum. A place to share our lives and get things out. The outcome of our writing – who sees it, who likes it, hates it – it not within our control. We create because we are creators. There’s a freedom that comes when we realize we can surrender attachment to outcomes. I hope you are doing well, that your kids are doing well. I’m still a follower!
Jane Gassner
I’m imagining a troll-proof electrified fence. I have a feeling your readers will help you build it.
Laura in Little Rock
Heh. I’m imagining the trolls peeing on an electrified fence, because I’m a country kid. I know what happens next.
Mr Lady
Good. Welcome back.
Carly Findlay
So good to see you back x
Rachel
OMG! So glad you are back. I check your blog every single day hoping to see a new post. Screw those who brought you down. Seriously…screw.them. Welcome back. Happy Leap Day!!
Jessica
Thank god you’re back. I have MISSED you and your voice. And if I could, I would go on a long road trip with that troll and we would talk about everything and watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean and eat blackberries picked right from the vine and follow hawks on the updrafts and try to circle huge redwoods with our arms and then we would talk about you. And why you matter. And why the troll matters. And why kindness trumps everything everyday for everyone. Thank you for opening up your blog and posting.
Stacy
YAY!!! I was worried when you were gone so long…so glad you’re back…just remind yourself that the UN-troll-y followers out here…we want to hear your voice…the trolls…can just move their negative @$$es along… <3
Jamie@southmainmuse
You had crossed my mind the other day. Wondering where you’ve been. And then to see a post in my inbox. Glad you’re back.
Marianne
Welcome back, Momo! I’ve missed you.
Melanie
Mate, you are awesome. I love reading your blog, glad you are back. Negativity stinks, trolls should be banned! Keep on keeping on!