The Social Media Troll

It happened again. I encountered a rude comment on social media.

What makes this one noteworthy is that the individual isn’t a stranger hiding behind an anonymous profile. He worked with my mother. She spoke highly of him. She admired his work ethic, his dedication as a single father, and the way he raised his daughter. Based on her praise, I added him to my friends list some time ago.

He seemed kind.

Until today.

I asked a simple, harmless question online. The responses from my friends and family were thoughtful, helpful, and even humorous. Advice was given. Suggestions were offered. Civility prevailed.

Except for one response.

His.

A grown man, respected in his professional circle, chose to publicly imply that I was unintelligent for asking a question out loud. Interesting choice. Especially considering he knows my mother has passed and that I am still navigating grief.

The irony is almost impressive.

It continues to amaze me how quickly some people shed their manners the moment a keyboard is involved. The same individuals who would shake your hand politely in person suddenly develop the confidence of a late-night talk show critic online.

Social media has become the modern version of “beer goggles.” It impairs your judgement.

You gain absolutely nothing by belittling someone who is simply having a conversation. Particularly with someone who is kind 99% of the time. I was raised differently. I was taught that if an opinion isn’t helpful, it doesn’t need to be announced. I was taught to love my neighbor and, when necessary, pray for my enemies.

Kindness is not weakness.

It is restraint.

I have a backbone and I will use it.

I let him know how disappointed I was to discover he isn’t quite the man my mother described so proudly.

I’d love to call her and tell her about it. She would certainly have a few well-crafted words of her own.

But that conversation can wait.

In the meantime, I choose composure over chaos. Whatever is weighing on him must be heavy enough to spill over into a debate about kitchen appliances.

Because let’s be honest — if you’re channeling anger into someone’s Crockpot vs. Air Fryer dilemma, something deeper is going on.

For the record: I chose both.

Because mature adults understand that two appliances can coexist peacefully — even if some people cannot. 😊

The core "love thy neighbor" verse is Matthew 22:39, where Jesus states, "Love your neighbor as yourself". This command appears frequently in the Bible (e.g., Mark 12:31, Leviticus 19:18), forming the second greatest commandment, which emphasizes selfless care, generosity, and acting with love toward others

Matthew 22:39 (NIV): "And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself'".

Mark 12:31 (NIV): "The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these".