Afraid to Speak

I've read it several times.

"You literally know nothing about (him)... There is absolutely no way you can realistically draw any sort of comparison between you and him.  Saying that you "sense" him is blatantly impossible, be as that you have absolutely no baring on what kind mind of man he was or personality he possessed. Furthermore it is downright insulting to read your words that indicate otherwise... "
                     ~ Anonymous

The comments were "Anonymous", but that doesn't take away the sting.  Whenever I post something on here I know I take the chance of getting feedback - Hell, I encourage it just by opening up.  But this one was different.  It was written to send a message - a message I would gladly accept, if not the veil that shrouded it's author...

So why does it prick me when this someone criticizes, actually venomously stabs at what I considered a pretty heartfelt statement from me?  Why does it start to swell inside me and even touch on the feelings I held all those years ago when I was Afraid to Speak?

Because this person didn't come to me and tell me that I was wrong, but lashed out without a face or a name.  Cowardice.  It is the same sort of fear-based rhetoric that silenced be during my own periods of torment - hurting - pain.  But it is even deeper than cowardice.  It is not based in just fear, but in hate.  Anger.  Ignorance.

I challenge the hearts of those who actually take time to read or hear my thoughts to continue to add what you will to them.  But don't hide behind a faceless comment.  I'm much stronger than that.  Are you?  

And those who have called me out when I was wrong - face to face - without hiding.  You are my heroes and kindred spirits.  We can agree or disagree without the shame of hiding who we are...

But to you, Anonymous one - 

Go to Hell!

I'll never be silenced AGAIN!!