I have a soft spot for the comment sections of online articles. The drama, wit, and occasional outrageousness provide a certain entertainment value. However, last week I witnessed a level of cruelty that left me utterly disheartened. People were mercilessly attacking a grieving mother for relying on Medicaid after the loss of her husband.
Yes, a widow with three children. Let’s take a look at some of those delightful remarks, shall we?
“She’s just taking advantage of the system. It’s her choice to stay home. If she wants Medicaid, she should get back to work!”
Really? A woman shares her heartbreaking experience of losing her spouse to a long illness, and this is what someone chooses to focus on?
“Exactly! She needed it to get back on her feet, not to stay off them. What a lazy person.”
Interesting that this commenter had also received Medicaid herself, yet feels entitled to call a widow “lazy” for not rushing back to employment right after her loss. Incredible.
“What does she do all day? Her kids are in school; she should just go back to work!”
Well, according to the original article, she’s doing everything she can to create a stable future for her family while also attending to her children’s emotional needs. But why should she prioritize her family’s well-being after such a tragedy, right?
“There comes a point where you need to stop using your kids as an excuse and get a job like everyone else. I work despite my 3-year-old crying for me. I don’t rely on the system.”
Another claim of “milking the system” from someone who didn’t bother to read the article. This widow and her husband both contributed to Medicaid through their jobs before facing a medical crisis that shattered their finances. Isn’t that exactly why Medicaid exists? What’s the threshold for using it without facing public scorn? It seems that simply qualifying isn’t enough.
There were countless comments like these, and the absence of compassion is bewildering. Why would anyone choose to attack someone already at rock bottom?
You might argue, “She put herself out there by sharing her story. It’s the internet; what do you expect?” Perhaps that’s the issue. When we lower our standards for basic human kindness, we create an environment ripe for cruelty.
Is it really easier to be cruel than kind? When did we abandon civil discourse? Wishing someone harm isn’t an expression of free speech, and labeling a grieving widow a “moocher” is not merely a differing opinion.
It’s hurtful. It’s unacceptable. And we can do better.
So hear me out: if you can’t express your “right to free speech” without resorting to name-calling or personal attacks, then I urge you to take a step back.
I don’t care about your political stance; this behavior is prevalent on all sides. If you can’t articulate your viewpoint without insults, please reconsider your approach.
If we disagree, that’s perfectly okay. I’m open to meaningful discussions with those who have differing views. I’ve had enlightening exchanges with people from various backgrounds, which helped me gain a better understanding, even if it didn’t change my mind.
This is my commitment: If you engage with me respectfully, I promise to listen. I won’t resort to name-calling or dismiss your experiences. I’ll acknowledge that your life experiences have shaped your perspective, and it’s valid, even if it differs from mine.
By genuinely listening to one another, we can foster understanding. Both of us are human beings navigating life’s challenges. I’ll wish you well and appreciate the chance to gain insight from your viewpoint.
Imagine how transformative it would be to walk away from online interactions feeling enriched rather than depleted. We deserve that, and our children deserve better role models.
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In summary, we can foster a more compassionate online community. Let’s strive for understanding instead of judgment, as we navigate our diverse experiences together.