This thread may not go well.. but it has to be said...

[MADem]

87. Well, this is a 'situation' that you have the power to improve.

Every person who values civility and who eschews participating in the jury system is potentially giving their slot to a troll. Many jury decisions are very close--your participation could change a 3-4 leave of a rude remark into a 4-3 hide.

You are a member here like the rest of us. Hell, I am not universally adored here, I've been called every name in the book because I like Obama AND Clinton. And even though I think Senator Sanders is a fine man, because he's not my first choice I've been thrown some shade. So WHAT, though?? Don't let strangers on the internet bully you into not being a full member here--because that IS your "place to complain," and jury duty is where YOU can help all of us mold the community standards into an environment that doesn't put up with trolls and taunters.

Find common cause with people who are like-minded and ignore the assholes. They only have the power to make you feel bad if you LET THEM. You have the power--not them.

I spent most of my youth going from school to school--over a dozen between grammar school and my baccalaureate. I spent a long career as The Nail That Sticks Up. I couldn't blend in and rather than give up or get resentful, I embraced it. I refused to get hammered down. People who can't deal don't have to engage, that's my view.

After a certain point in your life, you KNOW who your friends are. Cherish them, be open to making new ones, and fuck anyone who wants to give you shit or a hard time...those people are NOT your friends.

I am accepting of most viewpoints but I can't abide cruelty or bullying or vicious insults. If I see that as a juror I will vote to hide. I wish there were more jurors who refused to put up with mean, nasty remarks--maybe if there were this place would be less fun for the trolls that keep MIRT so busy.