Chapter 1: The Power of Tone

In the digital world, not everyone will appreciate your perspective, especially if they feel compelled to make disparaging remarks. A close friend recently confided in me about her experiences on Medium, saying, “There are always a few individuals who leave unpleasant comments. Although I don’t know them personally, their words can sometimes frustrate me or make me question my writing.”

Understanding tone is crucial in communication. I’ve noticed that my strong voice often leads people to misinterpret my emotions. Despite being loud and assertive, I’m not always angry or annoyed. This strong tone has opened doors for me, leading to remarkable job opportunities and unique exhibitions.

Throughout my journey, I’ve learned to embrace my voice, even if it occasionally makes others uneasy. Writing, especially when fueled by emotion, serves as a therapeutic outlet for me. It allows me to clarify my thoughts as I navigate the complexities of expressing myself in a second language.

Medium has become a nurturing space for me, where I’ve formed friendships. However, it’s disheartening to see the same individuals consistently playing the contrarian role in every article.

Photo by Elena Rubtsova from Pexels

Section 1.1: The Impact of Negative Comments

To be candid, there are many who prefer to dismiss comments from those easily offended by anti-establishment views. A friend shared that she now remembers the usernames of those who harass her online. She consciously avoids engaging with their comments, knowing they often aim to provoke or criticize.

These individuals have never offered positive feedback on her work; instead, they seem intent on nitpicking or vehemently disagreeing with her viewpoints. Why should my friend devote any energy to those who appear only to undermine her?

We absolutely have the right to disapprove of certain people and to ignore their negativity. It is within our power to choose which comments to engage with and which to disregard.

Photo by Alessio Cesario from Pexels

Chapter 2: The Journey of Self-Expression

This video explores how open-source tools can combat online harassment, providing valuable insights and resources for those affected.

This video delves into the question of whether the internet contributes to increased hostility among users, encouraging viewers to reflect on their online interactions.

Your Native friend is not just a writer; she is also an artist. She enjoys sipping coffee with milk and a hint of brown sugar—always brown, never white. Over the past five years, she has traveled extensively, living in four different countries and showcasing her art in places such as Indonesia, Mexico, Italy, Argentina, Spain, Chile, and Peru.