I don't discuss politics, religion or any polarizing issue online, but like anyone else I certainly have my own opinions. Long ago I learned that bullies, unchecked hate speech and all kinds of prejudice are poisonous to me -- the hard way, I'm afraid. Forgive me for not getting into details. In the end I was finally able to escape when I switched career paths and unplugged from social media.
Since that ugly time in my life I have worked very hard to preserve my privacy and create a safe work environment where I didn't have to worry about being bullied again. I was very fortunate to be in the right place at the right time to find my current dream job. I work with an amazing editor who values my talent, helps me continue to improve, and gives me so much creative freedom. I feel as if I'm finally doing the work I was always meant to, which is probably why my productivity has never been better.
That said, it's very isolating to create in complete solitude. Then came the pandemic, and with my health issues I had to remain completely isolated from the outside world. I think that's why I joined Twitter, to very cautiously seek out like-minded people and make some connections. That led me to the quilting and textile art community, who welcomed me. For almost two years I really enjoyed sharing my art with them and seeing what they were doing. Building that circle was a wonderful experience.
With the decisions that have been made since Twitter was sold the platform is no longer a safe place. Seeing so many bullies, unchecked hate speech and all kinds of prejudice being permitted is sickening. I became more anxious than I've been in years, not only for myself but for the other creatives there who might be attacked. I also knew there was nothing I could do to stop it.
I think we all have to do what's best for us, and for me that was to protect myself. That's why I left.
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