As a child I grew up with constant physical and verbal attacks on me for a physical characteristic I didn’t ask for and couldn’t change.

That adults didn’t stop the physical attacks is a shameful indictment on them.

But. They couldn’t force other children to be my friend. https://twitter.com/rascal778/status/1321348745167020032

And I am so glad to have been born in 1970. I had to find my way without using social media as some platform to seek and demand validation.

Of course I was lucky to be born with a personality that enabled me to fight.

Of course it was wrong I wasn’t better protected.

But I am seeing now all about me the consequences of providing some with a global stage where they can issue demands for the impossible - for love, for respect, to be included.

And more terrifying, state apparatus grinding into action to provide back up.

How are we teaching people anything if our first and only tool is a threat?

Include me. Love me. Respect me. Or I will see you suffer. It’s not a compelling argument is it?

Those children who hurt me. I fought back.

As I grew I learned the power of words which are more effective than any single fist.

You want to engage me? Leave the threats behind. Use your words.