Walking Away

"This can't be our lives forever."

Tonight, the individual behind a hate page that has been created about me posted that their new hobby is stalking me and taking photos of me, and — in this instance — my child.

I know why they posted. They have been desperate for a reaction. I haven't made a comment since they allowed a woman to post pictures of my other daughter, and mock her looks. They supported and defended this woman, a friend of the admin's. That was a few weeks ago. I had decided to stop reacting.  But, it's not easy. It's human nature to want to defend yourself from lies and defamation. It's human nature to want to seek protection when you're threatened.

Of course tonight, after they made a post about stalking me... I reacted.

I was creeped the fuck out. I am creeped the fuck out. 

But, as my husband and I digested the reality of this situation, we have to say enough.

We need to stop giving oxygen to people who exist only to harass and bully and antagonize. It's not productive. It may be cathartic to react but it's short-lived. 

We're walking away from engaging in behavior that isn't productive.

The reality is, I'm not going to stop blogging. I'm not going to stop being an active member of the community. I'm not going to stop engaging in local politics and volunteer work. And this means, that the person behind this page and the supporters will continue to do this. Every day. All day long. It's what they do and have time to do.

My husband and I have agreed that we will no longer be engaging/commenting/or interacting with these types in any fashion. I've asked before... and I know it's a big ask, and I can't control what you write or where (and I'm always grateful for those who have my back), but... I'm going to make the ask that supporters of mine please stop engaging on these pages. They exist because we all give them oxygen and the reaction and attention they desperately crave. I take responsibility for my reaction to them. 

This is not what we're about. It's not what I'm about.

I have so many amazing things to share with you all soon.  I'm working with a lot of community nonprofits and will be sharing ways you can all get involved and awesome opportunities for families and art opportunities in our community. Conejo Community Outreach is gearing up for another Thanksgiving event, and we've been busy helping families with diapers/wipes/formula needs. 

If you want to support me, please consider making a donation to CCO for our participation in Charity Karoake. The nonprofit that receives the most donations before Sept. 21 will receive an extra $1,000.  Let's refocus our energy. Lets get back to community and UNITY.