Falling Iinto Old Habits

Ever been in a situation where you find yourself swept away by the allure of digital discourse, only to later ask yourself, "Why did I even engage?" Well, that was me—just last week.

My first reaction? "Surely, this person is just misinformed," I thought. (Oh, eager little optimist!)

My original reply was met with a negative response and an attack on my approach.

With my teacher hat on, I meticulously typed a second response filled with an apology and then helpful insights. "This is it!" I mused, "This will evolve into a thoughtful discussion!"

Well, folks, you probably know where this is heading. What I received in return was a classic, textbook troll reply—a dismissive, mocking retort that barely addressed my points.

Somehow, I still held onto hope. I tried one more time, thinking maybe, just maybe, I could reach through the veil of anonymity and come to some sort of understanding.

Both my ex-wives swear I love to argue. I don't. I always felt that with my next well phrased insights, we both would see the missing pieces and peace and harmony would result.

But likewise, this conversation spiraled further, disrespect was left and right. Each attempt to guide the dialogue back on track was met with yet another snarky comeback (as in "Please stop, I'm not even reading these).
Ever tried to bring a troll to the table of logic? It never works.

And then, the light bulb moment struck me like a friendly slap on the face. The realization was simple and profound:

Why do we allow ourselves to be sucked into these endless loops?

Why do we take the bait like a fish that’s been caught before?

It's a familiar trap for those of us who want to believe we can educate and uplift—forgetting that some people online (hello, Mr. Anonymous) don’t want enlightenment; they thrive on controversy.

In the end, I laughed at myself, and fought the urge to get one more comment in. I finally understood—it isn’t about "fixing" others, but rather, preserving our own peace.

Engaging with trolls only removes us from conversations that truly matter. So, the next time you feel the itch to reply to a trolls whispering sweet nonsense, remember my story.

Laugh it off, move along, and save your wisdom for those who genuinely seek it. Every teach wants an eager student. I noticed that he had also shot down other suggestions from others in the forum (so it wasn't just me).

We’re better off investing energy into communities that build, inspire, and nurture. You'll thank yourself later for sidestepping these digital pitfalls, embracing a healthier online existence. Life is too short to squander on trolls.

Shine your light where it's genuinely appreciated—because it's much too special to waste in the shadows of negativity.

-Dave