The day the media broke my heart part 2 #28days #day13

Let's just say that a lot of processing took place after the media destroyed my reputation, but through it all, I saw a light. The people who know us came to our rescue with kind words, heartfelt love, some even defending us on social media. I bumped into a friend who reminded me that a person's opinion is a reflection on them and not me and another who took my hand in prayer. And despite the misery I found silver linings were everywhere.

What did I learn? I learnt that the media certainly hasn't got my best interests at heart, I learnt that people can be mean, so mean. I learnt that people who know nothing about IVF are pretty insensitive and I learnt that although there are bitter, angry people in the world, there are people who may not agree with the cause, but defend a person they don't know.

Apart from the media letting me down, the human race certainly fell short too. I felt a sense of sadness for people who must be negative based on their own life circumstances, and like my mom says, they really just need prayer. I wonder if these people knew me, if they would say the same thing or if they would actually say that to my face, as a stranger, but still have the guts to tell me in person?

Social media can be used positively, but in the same way we show respect to fellow human beings in society, the same respect should be exercised on social media. As a teacher, I hope that I can teach my students about respect, respect in all areas. A human in 'cyberspace' is still a person and we need to use the same skills, respect and kindness whether we agree or not, in all arena's. There is an unwritten etiquette that we are responsible to share with our students if we want them to contribute positively as digital citizens.

Hiding behind a screen sprouting negativity has no place in my world. And even when you are subjected to ridicule, bitterness and unkindness, rise above it and don't merely become a reflection of these people. Criticism certainly helps us grow. We can change if we see room to improve, but don't let it break you, let it make you stronger and better.