I've namechanged for this simply because I like my regular name and persona and would like to keep it on the off chance this goes tits up.
I was going to post this on the thread about Troll Hunters but it felt like it would be a detraction from the main issue of that particular thread.
I think to a large extent, if anyone is worried and brave enough to post about issues going on in their private lives, they open themselves up to a lot of speculation and examination - in addition to the good advices they may or may not recieve.
What worries me is that a lot of vulnerable people come on here, spill their hearts and sometimes are subjected to MNers negativity.
A while back, I used to post quite regularly and it was fine until I decided to ask for insights about some personal matters. Whilst majority of the responses were supportive and helpful, some were downright negative and hurtful. I was shocked that complete strangers, who had no idea what my life is / was like, assumed they had the temerity to make judgements and assumptions. Yes, I agree - words on a screen - but when it is someone's life and feelings, we owe it to each other to be circumspect and treat ourselves with dignity and respect.
Yes, some troubled individuals WILL take advantage and make up stories and I am certain not all of us are dumb to be taken in by them.
It's the few unfortunate ones that get subjected to all sorts of deriding treatment that make me sad about how we treat ourselves on here.
I remember being shocked and a bit frightened that someone knew so much about me based on posts I had made eons ago and kept bringing it up in newer threads to cast aspersions on everything I said (posted). It was frightening and it affected me so much in RL. The inability to make that person and his/her crew see that this was my life and that I wasnt lying about anything. It was frightening. Till today, I rarely post asking for insights or opinions. I stick to the safe topics and pick up helpful tips from threads I find interesting.
I dont / wouldnt want to be in that situation ever again.
My point? Trolls are disruptive, yes. Troll Hunters are worse. They have a grandoise opinion about themselves and their "position" on a board and thrive on their ability to disparage anyone who seems vulnerable, or are battling with "unbelievable circumstances" in their life. They have an over inflated opinion of themselves as "Masters of the board". I am glad MNHQ do their best to discourage them.