Jackson Free Press

Yes, that's what a troll just called me on another thread before it was deleted.

If I didn't see it in my inbox, I would have never known about it. Here it is from JamesLucas:

And Donna, on your way back to Neshoba, take that dumb sh!t rebel without a clue Latasha Willis with you....

I'm not sure what sort of response this individual was expecting me to give to his post, but I just want to let him know that if he intended for me to cry, he got what he wanted. Yes, my feelings were hurt, I cried, and I'm not ashamed to say so. Some may think I'm weak for even mentioning my reaction here, but this is for my benefit and no one else's.

Thank you, JamesLucas, for taking the time out to mention me. It shows that you were paying attention. It also shows that you are no different from the kids in grade school who used to tease me for making A's and wearing dresses and skirts every day. A common name for me was "crybaby" because I was so sensitive. I still am, and I thank God for it because it helps me to identify with others who are hurting and and treat others the way I would want them to treat me.

I also thank you, JamesLucas, for reminding me that I am stronger than I give myself credit for. I've been stabbed in the back in another organization, turned on at work, fought depression, struggled with panic attacks and survived a suicide attempt. I've stared death in the face, so it will take more than tears to make me give up.

You may not agree with Wake Up Jackson's mission, and that's cool. I'm not expecting everyone to "get it", and I knew that I would face opposition when I started it. This experience will probably be a good training session for future conflicts.

No, I'm not thick-skinned yet, and I had gotten used to either hiding in the shadows or trying to make everyone happy. Since that just about killed me, I decided to change my approach. I may not be an expert at fighting demons, or trolls, yet, but I have enough sense to know when someone wants to hurt me so I will shut up. Yes, you hurt me, but - excuse my grammar - I ain't shuttin' up.

I hope I don't offend anyone by saying this, so please excuse me while I say it: Get thee behind me, Satan. The blood of Jesus is against you. Okay, enough of that.

JamesLucas and all the other trolls, I'll be praying for you. Yeah, I know, you don't need my little prayers. Well, I hate to tell you this, but, uh, yes you do. Anyone who would take out this much time to disrupt intelligent conversation could use some divine intervention.

Now, I'm done, and I expect to see the trolls return with glee. "Aw, we hurt her wittle feelings." Well, enjoy it - for now. You won't get this chance again. Weeping may endure for a night, buy joy comes in the morning.

See ya...

Previous Comments

ID

113629

Comment

I like to ignore them. Or emasculate. Whichever I'm in the mood for. Never weep over a troll. Pity their size issues, but never weep. Your skin will thicken, and they will stay the same. Bless their tiny little, um, hearts.

Author

emilyb

Date

2007-07-31T08:07:41-06:00

ID

113630

Comment

Oh, and what men meant to hurt you, my God will make for good ;)

Author

emilyb

Date

2007-07-31T08:08:23-06:00

ID

113631

Comment

Never weep over a troll. Love it, Em. I do understand how words can hurt—but I decided a long time ago to not let petty (and cowardly) jerks change anything I do. I like true criticism, delivered by people not afraid to sign their names, but I write off any other jabs as attempts to silence, and then get motivated by that to be even louder and stronger as a journalist and editor. Someone I respect dearly told me years back that there will always be a handful of people trying to shout you down when you're trying to do positive things—part of your job is to rise above them. Those are words I live by. I think that's the experience you're having now, L.W., and it's a wonderful experience. This will strengthen your character (if that's possible). (Smile.) Go pick up the book, "Souls of a Citizen," if you need inspiration to keep fighting the good fight while under fire. Or, I have a feeling you have another book at the ready that will give some tips. ;-) Marianne Williamson's books are amazing, too.

Author

Todd Stauffer

Date

2007-07-31T08:55:51-06:00

ID

113632

Comment

Oops. The iTodd was signed in on my laptop. The last post is actually by the iLadd.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-31T08:56:38-06:00

ID

113633

Comment

Thanks, all. I was still pretty raw when I typed that, but I'm cool now. As they say, what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-07-31T12:15:55-06:00

ID

113634

Comment

Indeed. ;-) How was your protest this a.m.?

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-31T12:18:00-06:00

ID

113635

Comment

Protest Update

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-07-31T13:12:20-06:00

ID

113636

Comment

I wrote this blog entry last week for the JFP staff, and now I see that I need to follow my own advice. :-)

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-07-31T16:49:45-06:00

ID

113637

Comment

I wouldn't let a troll--strike that, a coward--hiding behind a computer get to me like that. Keep your head up and wipe it off.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2007-08-01T10:42:32-06:00

ID

113638

Comment

Thanks, Golden.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-08-01T11:07:27-06:00