When I started blogging almost three years ago, I had no idea what an Internet troll was. I remember the first time I stumbled on the magical existence of said creature and looked on with a bit of shock and awe.Â
I was very young (in spirit if not in body) and naive back in the day. I also believed unicorns and fairy dust could be found on the net if you knew where to look.
Three years later, I’m slightly older but infinitely wiser. I know that trolls exist everywhere and the only place unicorns and fairy dust exist on the net is over on Danny’s site. (But that’s because he regularly shoots rainbows out his arse. He’s special like that.)
The truth is we are all cavorting in a big cyber playground and eventually; someone is going to throw some sand. It’s inevitable. Trolls aren’t mystical, magical creatures; they’re just snotty-nosed over grown children who haven’t been taught how to play nice with others.
I’ve always let trollish comments stand on my site. To be honest, most of the time they amuse me. Better yet, I like to sit back and let my readers feed on them. It’s like tossing chum into shark infested waters.Â
As I often tell my kids, if you mess with the bull, you’re gonna get the horn.
Besides, I have always felt that part of the charm of blogging is the interaction and feeling of community which commenting fosters. Even if the comments are slightly ignorant.Â
But after yesterday, I’ve reevaluated my policy on Internet trolls. Call me crazy, but if you accuse me of something which is completely false and then stick around to poke at the beehive with a big stick, I’m not thinking you want to be part of the loving redneck community I have busted my arse building over the last three years.
I’ve decided I will now delete as the mood strikes.Â
Don’t be angry dear troll. I promise I will save your comment, paste it lovingly into a scrapbook and then read it and re-read it until the words are faded and the paper well worn. Because your words really mean that much to me.
Our love will just remain hidden from the prying eyes of the internet.
But it is just not cool to take a swing at me on a post about my dead kid. I mean, I’m a REDNECK and I have better manners than that. Ironically, over at Cynical Dad’s place, he’s freaking ROASTING me. Hop on over there and let ‘er rip. That’s what a roast is for. Not to mention, the talented writers he’s got lined up will show your trollish self how to tear me a new arsehole with style.
Sheesh. Do I have to tell you everything?Â
Disagree with me all you want, dear Internets. I embrace a challenge and dissenting opinions. (Ask my husband, he’ll tell ya. Snicker.) Not to mention, my readers enjoy the chum-my nature of a good disagreement. As long as you are respectful, I have no issue with your opinion, no matter how wrong you are, and I’ll likely leave the comment up for everyone’s amusement.
But if you mess with me the day after my dead kid’s birthday, or on a post about my beloved boy, I may have to stick my horn up your trollish butt.
After which, I’ll be pasting your comment into my book of love to forever fondle.Â
Just so you know.
***Also, I’m getting my butt wiped over at the Weblog Awards and my ego is taking a pounding. It’s tough being the only non-partisan blog in the entire category up against all those political blowhards. That ought to make some trolls happy. You know you can vote everyday until the 12th, right? And when I lose with style I promise I’ll throw a big pity party on my blog for everyone who wasn’t nominated or lost and we’ll take comfort in our collective misery.Â
That said, if I win, I’m totally streaking the streets of the Internet buck naked while shouting, “In yer face all you Canadian political bloggers. A mommy blogger beat ya. Boo-ya!“Â
Cuz I’m classy like that.***
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 19:21
I’m glad you wrote a post about this. I’m still in disbelief that you got that comment on that post.
Good luck in the blog contest… I’ll go check it out now.
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 19:24
Delete. What a wonderful button
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 19:29
You know, you are one of the most solid and complete women I have ever had the opportunity to read.
I say, let the troll stand and let “it” deal with the aftermath of those that love you. Because we all do. You are OUTSTANDING!!! Unless of course, the troll was too cowardly to show its real self.
I missed what would’ve been Shalebug’s birthday. For that, I am pissed at myself.
Anyway, be strong my fellow Canadian (I can’t wait until the day I can call you my friend!). And yes, you get my vote, every single 24 hours baby!
PS: Can you send me a picture of your boobs? I’m just interested in the nipple rings… thinking about it myself… you know, had to ask, what can I say..
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 19:30
You handle the writing and I will take care of the ass kicking. Say all you want about me, but if you go after my kids words will not help you.
Yes I voted for you today – Web Blog Awards.
Sorry for the bluntness, but this one touched a nerve.
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 20:27
Never heard of trolls before now… sounds like one mixed up kid. Sorry it hot y’all hot and bothered… a tough thing to handle at a tough time.
Have voted already but will head over again. This is the most bizarre setup for an award (whoever heard of voting more than once?)… good luck!
BB
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 20:28
er…that would be “GOT you all hot and bothered”.
*sheesh!*
BB
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 20:46
I’ve been lurking here for a while and have followed your ups and downs over the past few months. Your writing is captivating as you share such painful events, and hilarious when you point out the joy in life.
You are one classy Sheila!
I stopped using Usenet when a troll started spitting vile (replying) at everything I wrote. Nothing was sacred. I’d deleted the bugger but saw its messages when someone else replied to it.
Its taken me over a year to come back to the internet and even longer to finally begin to blog … with the resolution to block any and all trolls ’cause life is too short to put up with fwits.
But its bloggers like you and Kelley over at Magnetoboldtoo that have me hooked on the internet again. You guys have class – and a vast knowledge of witty comebacks, sarcasm and swear words. You rock!
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 20:55
I think you should let the troll stay…and let us regulars deal with him. Trust me, we’ve got your back.
Oh, and I voted. Again. And I’m not Canadian. Does that still count?
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 21:06
I’m sorry Bug’s birthday had to be the day a troll showed up :S
I voted for you last night…..just waiting for the 24 hour clock to reset so I can vote again today!
PS – Go Flames
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 21:26
Vote for you EVERY SINGLE DAY until the 12th? Now you’re pimping!
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 21:36
I think Trolls are just sad b/c who spends their time being that negative? Sad people. Now I’m going to vote for you again.
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 21:45
Never read this blog before. Came here from the Weblogs site to check you out. Now I’ve voted for you.
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 22:20
I love the delete button.
Sometimes I’ve run into people and wished that it worked in real life, too. Wouldn’t that be cool?
And no, I didn’t know I could vote every day, so I went back and voted again.
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 22:44
I’m going to vote for you, but only because you promised to get drunk and sing karaoke. Wink.
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 22:57
Woohoo Tanis, you are closing in with 26.2% of the vote.
As to the trollish SG, buh-bye. We’ve wasted way too much time on you already.
Tuesday, 6 January, 2009 at 23:00
Voted yesterday after I saw a link somewhere else, and had to check the canadian nomimnees. Will do today’s later.
As for the f’wit, you take them on and they just enjoy it, like wrestling a pig. Delete and IP block.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 2:50
I’m new at blogging, myself. I’ve certainly encountered blog posts that offended me–but I’ve never heard (till now) of a blogger being so cruel as that! I’m so sorry!
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 5:21
Trolls are fun to play with, in the same way that as a kid you would pull out their hair and generaly torment them…
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 6:56
I just never understand some people…how miserable they must be to feel the need to Troll their way through life.
We had a troll a few months ago who didn’t like my political views around election day, and went on a rant about how I was too rich & how my son needed speech therapy(he’s 5).
And I especially love when it’s an anonymous troll.
Just hang in there & get a good laugh. ‘Cause anyone with that much hate in their heart is bound for misery on Earth and lots of hot fun in the afterlife!!
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 7:05
You know you’ve arrived when you have a HATER. Will trolls ever learn that the internet isn’t like your local Burger King? SG, no you can’t “Have it your way.” I believe this blog & it’s contents belong solely to Tanis for her to do with as she sees fit, mind you. We’re only fortunate enough that she chose to share. If you don’t like it, move the f*ck on. None of your silly ass comments needed, thank you very much.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 7:48
That’s the Redneck I know and love.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 8:46
I gave a troll the business end of my foot once. I think they get off on the response.
From now on I just delete and say nothing. No limelight for them.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 8:58
Add “classy” to your long list of attributes, Tanis! Very well put. Happy Birthday a few days late to your beloved ShaleBug. Big hugs, lady.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 9:38
The way I see it, is that if you have a troll then you’ve really made it as a blogger. And we all know YOU’VE made it. Hell you’re getting roasted and nominated out the ass. Screw those trolls.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 10:10
*GRUNT*
Hey, there’s another rainbow! Want it?
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 10:35
i *think* it was Sweetney (at blogher) who taught me the power of the delete button. Use it when you need to, Tanis. and don’t use it when you want to toss them into the shark-infested waters. smooch.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 10:43
Sorry to be late to the “party”. I just went back and read the trolls comments. The most appropriate word was ‘tacky’. Or maybe tasteless… Or maybe inappropriate. Well you get the hint .
Trolls suck.
Don’t give him/her anymore thought.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 10:57
I’m glad you’ve chosen to ignore the trolls from now on. I got one troll comment awhile back, and my husband decided to “guest” blog and tear the troll a new one. Well, I just kept thinking, “He/She probably won’t even read this, so what’s the point?”
We have a neighborhood troll. Once everyone got together and decided to ignore her, she totally mellowed out. In fact, I haven’t heard of a dirty deed in a few years. They are attention mongers, and if they don’t get attention they go away.
And, I’m so pissed that someone would add further hurt regarding your little boy that I could just spit. So, that’s all I’m gonna say on that.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 11:21
You? Are awesome. “I have always felt that part of the charm of blogging is the interaction and feeling of community which commenting fosters” Amen. And anyone who doesn’t want to be part of that community is surely not fit for a comment.
Also, running to vote for you by another “gettin her ass whooped” person in the parent category. YEY. I’m LAST! hhhaha
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 12:23
Glad I know what a troll is now! That’s just so wrong to comment on a child escpecially one that has passed away. There are some horrible people out there!! Yes, please delete… don’t give them any kind of promotion what so ever… that’s all they’re after.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 12:27
I voted again. My God, your competition sucks, though. Those other blogs are so.damned.boring.
I don’t get it.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 12:31
Tanis, I can’t figure out how to email you. I’m rather techno illit. But feel free to send me a note and we’ll find out if our paths cross. And F the trolls. Unfortunately some people need editing! You rock no matter what the troll says. He’s just jealous.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 17:16
Just throw them some cookies, build them a bridge, then shove their nasty asses back under it. They’re truly not worth your time. Feel free to delete comments. I do it from time to time and I don’t feel one bit guilty about it. Fug ‘em, I say. If they want to be nasty little bastards then they deserve to be treated that way.
I’m sorry I didn’t post on that day and have your back. I would have. You know it.
Happy Birthday to your Bug. He’s smiling as he watches mama rip her teeth into a troll.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 17:18
Oooooh they must be inspired by you, otherwise why waste valuable internet space to even bother blogging about you
GO YOU!
Get under their pasty white comptuer skin and irritate the crap out of the little f****rs!
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 19:30
Like a piece of used gum on the bottom of your favorite shoe, this stupid troll is sucking way too much positive energy out of the lives of way too many awesome people. I’m ashamed that it was this incident that drove me to comment, but I just couldn’t help it! So annoyed, and then annoyed that I let that bottom feeder annoy me! It’s what she wants.. jealous of the support you have and that you have rightfully earned.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 20:24
Give me a name sweetness, just a name.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 20:39
I unfortunatly got my first troll at YouTube. I had posted a video of my son that has autism opening Chirstmas presents (This was a big deal for us. 3 years ago he would not have even shown and interest in a wrapped gift).
I could not fathom that some one could have such hate for a child that they would post the nasty things that they said.
Where do people get off doing crap like that?
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 22:10
Trolls aren’t worth the time it would take to piss on them.
You rock, thanks for sharing yourself with the rest of us.
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 22:34
This has been my policy for a long time now. I’m glad you’re doing it because frankly? Comments like that don’t deserve to see the light of day.
Voting again for you.
P.S. I think you should take Danny’s Ass Rainbow he left in the comments and sell it on ebay.
(Proceeds donated to charity, of course. Maybe you should be the one to pick it though. I am not sure what he would come up with as an option. Heh.)
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 23:27
That’s messed up. I’m fairly new to the blog world and I’ve been pretty lucky with the comments but it’s tough letting it all hang out there. Don’t let a few jerk-offs spoil your party. You’re awesome. I’ll be on the lookout for Trolls for now on… Peace
Wednesday, 7 January, 2009 at 23:39
I am new to your blog and I went right over and read the roast posts and now I can’t wait to read the older posts to find out what they are talking about! Phew, I almost ran out of breath on that sentence.
I voted for you but right now some sneak thief is ahead of you.
You are the winner if you win the award or not.
Thursday, 8 January, 2009 at 6:04
It’s your house, chica. You make the rules.
PS. I vote for you every single day.
Thursday, 8 January, 2009 at 8:40
I laugh at trolls.
I once had one who accused me of living in a shitty neighborhodd and only pretending to live in Don Mills to make myself look good…
Apparently living in the “uncoolest” neighborhood on Toronto is something to which one aspires.
Who knew?
Thursday, 8 January, 2009 at 9:30
Happy to play shark to any chum(p) you feel like throwing to us.
Saturday, 10 January, 2009 at 0:50
Trolls, are just bored people who like to start shit.
Someone “trolling” on a post about Bug, is NOT a troll, it is ignorance.
Just remember, you can’t blame those who were never taught better, their parents BLEW and they are just upset at how much you still deeply care for Bug even though he is not still physically here with you.
Sunday, 11 January, 2009 at 8:25
i deleted a few negative comments from my blog. screw them. if they can’t say anything nice…or nothing at all…then move on to the next blog. there happen to be a kagillion out there!
Sunday, 11 January, 2009 at 15:17
I may be extremely naive, but I cannot imagine anyone being so cruel to you, or your son.
On the other hand, bury them. Destroy them. They deserve to rot in hell.
Tuesday, 13 January, 2009 at 12:32
i luff you. that is all.
oh and we need to find/bring karaoke to nashville. just sayin’.