I stumbled into a classic example of how quickly conversations can escalate online. A simple video showcasing the security feature of a $100 bill turned into a thread of misunderstanding, sharp comments, and, ultimately, unnecessary hostility. I confirmed through my own testing that the video information was accurate. Please keep in mind I was already part of the conversation prior to the following exchange.
It started innocently enough: someone asked for clarification, another offered a brief explanation, "you can't counterfeit" and I replied with my own thoughts because the brief explanation was misleading, "well, if they can make it that way, obviously it can be counterfeited, however, it makes it more difficult to counterfeit." That’s when things took a sharp turn. A reply came my way, dripping with rudeness and capped with an angry tirade when I responded politely.
"Shut up Linda and sit down with your pointless commentary." At first, I was stunned. Firstly, it wasn't pointless commentary. Pointing out misleading information prevents confusion and ensures that the information shared about counterfeiting and security measures is accurate. Misunderstandings about the feature could lead to false confidence in counterfeit bills. Secondly, something must be going on with them to elicit that harsh response. I decided to reply with kindness: "I will pray for you."
Instead of diffusing the situation, my comment seemed to ignite even more hostility.
"Don’t pray for me. I'm a practicing Catholic. Your prayers mean nothing. You never prayed for anyone in your life. You're too wrapped up in your fragile ego with no place to go and not enough brains when you get there. So again, f** off and don’t waste your time and precious energy making an ass of yourself." My very first thought was, "you need more practice!" When I stopped giggling, I was dismayed—not because I’d never encountered negativity online, but because of the unexpected venom. This wasn’t just a sharp retort—it came from someone who professed to share a belief in God.
At first, I wanted to reply with my joke. Then I considered a response to explain myself and refute the accusations, but I chose not to engage further. I have really worked on this aspect of my personality over the last year and a half. In a world where people can hide behind screens, it’s easy for conversations to veer into negativity. Words that might never be said in person are typed without hesitation. Our words still matter, and so does our tone which is more difficult to convey online using text. Words have the power to build people up or tear them down. I know my tone, being strait forward and often matter-of-fact, has been misinterpreted many times. What I think of as funny and lighthearted may come across differently to others.
When I replied with kindness and offered to pray for the person, I wasn’t trying to be snarky. I genuinely believe that responding with grace—rather than matching negativity—can shift the tone of an interaction. I am not very good at it, but I am more thoughtful in my replies compared to a few years ago. Did it change their attitude? No, but it reinforced who I am and the kind of presence I want to bring to any space, online or offline. My prayers may mean nothing to that person, but they mean something to me.
I am sharing this because writing helps me to calm my thoughts, better understand the situation, and prevent further action. This interaction reminded me that our words, even online, carry weight. Words can heal or harm, build or destroy. We don’t have control over how others speak to us, but we should always have control over our response. As I try to reconcile my thoughts, I keep in mind that not every comment deserves a reaction. In addition, I am learning to be less reactive especially when attacked.
Instead of reacting impulsively or emotionally to situations, I try to take a step back, assess the situation thoughtfully, and make informed decisions before acting. This way I can be in control of my responses and take action in a way that aligns with who I really am inside, rather than just reacting off the top of my head. When given the choice between engaging in a toxic back-and-forth or rising above it, I am choosing the high road most every time. When living my entire life in fight or flight mode, it takes time.
As I am finishing this post, I get six more Facebook notifications. This situation has further escalated because they are commenting on several of my posts, taking their rudeness to a whole new level. The comments were not only disrespectful, but also crossed the line by coming onto my page to criticize me unprovoked. These actions reflect their own issues, not mine, and I refuse to let this negativity change my day.
I’ve taken the step to block them, but Facebook let me know they have additional profiles, and although they will takes steps to prevent those profiles from engaging with my page, it won't completely block them. Their words reflect a level of hostility that has me unsettled. If there is any further contact, I will report their behavior to the authorities to ensure my safety and protect myself from unwanted harassment.
What do you think? Have you ever encountered something like this online? How do you handle it? Let me know—Get in Touch!
Psalm 139:23-24
"Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
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