'Sympathy' reaction used inappropriately?

I think reactions to a comment should be shown publically to everyone, the reaction and username beside it, because it has been used to bully and undermine in a passive aggressive way, they aren't using the system in good faith or the spirit whereas often when a poster replies rudely to a comment, other readers of the thread can jump in and see who is being unreasonable or a bully, in using the flower reaction it's a loophole for bullies because what can the person do? Whereas a comment can be reported, responded to and seen by others, the reaction is between the bully and the poster. Robust conversation is the foundation of the thread, secretive underhand bullying tactics spoil the experience here.

Oh FFS not this again. If people want to use it sarcastically then that’s fair isn’t it? Free speech. I want the laugh emoji back!!

I thought that the flowers were to show support rather than sympathy. A subtle difference but maybe an important one? I usually use them if someone has had a horrible experience as a way of saying “I hear you”.

I think it’s more likely to be fat thumbs. Or even just someone reading your comment differently from you. Something small in your comment that you didn’t even notice may have connected with them.

To be honest, even if it were being used in bad faith I don’t think it’s that awful. When someone sarcastically says ‘thoughts and prayers!’, about a trivial situation, it’s hardly seriously upsetting!

Oh for goodness sake.

Yeah I have but flowers are not as aggressive as someone laughing at you. Like in real life would you rather someone laugh in your face or hand you a bouquet? It’s easier to ignore IMO <awaits floral avalanche>