231 Comments
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Genevieve's avatar

Ah these trolls are nuts. What a lovely photo. Go you good thing.

Cherie Lee's avatar

Connie, I love this! Your selfie is gorgeous and you are a winner in my book!

Anita Henslee's avatar

As an activist who is a few years older than you, Connie, I have been called every name imaginable. Being anti-racist, pro LGBTQ and supporter of equality and equity in justice seems to be a very unpopular stance in Texas. When a hater told me I was fat ( I am guessing he was out of other insults) I reacted nonchalantly by pointing out that was a fact. It opened another conversation. I do hope most women can reach that point when their physical appearance is not such a sensitive issue. When other women tell me they couldn’t do what I have done because of their fear, I assure them I DO have fear but I do not let it stop me from doing what I know is right and just. I always enjoy reading what you write! Thank you for continuing to share so openly with all of us.

Charlie Boyy's avatar

They simply haven't learned to recognize the courage it takes to do what you do, how you do it.

Lucy Shoup's avatar

"Few things are scarier to a man who loathes women than a woman who finds his hatred to be hilarious." As someone who finds it hard to block out other people's opinions, your story is very inspiring. I absolutely love this quote because it is very true. Nothing emasculates a man more than a woman who doesn't let their opinion affect them.

Ossiana Tepfenhart's avatar

The petty bitch in me would have sent those guys' comments to their bosses. The loving bitch in me just wants to hug you and let you know you're not alone. I've gotten death threats in my inbox.

Celeste Paredes's avatar

Thank you so much for your vulnerability here. No doubt it wasn't something easy to do. It's easy to pretend that the words of these online trolls mean nothing but the fact is that sometimes words hurt. I admire the way you are able to write about your emotions and experiences with such frankness and honesty but with a sense of humor as well. Don't let these online bullies bring you down!

Spanky Hodgins's avatar

I love when 'the algorithm' serves me the good stuff. What a joy to find you.

Catherine  Martin's avatar

Regarding insults I learned as a child to consider the source. If it’s from someone I don’t know or care about their opinions,I don’t give it any consideration. If it’s from someone I know of and don’t care,same thing. If it’s someone I care about, then it bothers me and makes me want to speak to that person about what is on their mind.

Molly Spira's avatar

Your soul shines through your face - and both are stunningly beautiful. Do not let the haters get you down - there’s more of us than there are of them.

Laura's avatar

Connie, I find you amazing. You and your husband. I remember hearing you speak about your decision to marry. You both have made America a better place. Keep up your fight for the women of America. We deserve it. I, for one, will never back down from the freedom and power we women should enjoy. We must be wiling to fight for these things to keep our country free from tyranny.

Maryellen Simcoe's avatar

Hooray for Ohio! They stood up for the right to choose!

Maryellen Simcoe's avatar

Hooray for Ohio! They stood up for the right to choose!

Sally Partner's avatar

Thank you for sharing your wonderful attitude. I am still working on it, and reading your essay is inspirational.