My Audacious Truth: In Which I Tweet Agreeably & The Consequence Thereof

/ Ally Bean

I’m here today to share with you, my little moonbeams, something that happened to me, something that made me laugh more than it should have. I’m trying to work up some righteous indignation, but so far I’m stuck on the absurdity of it.

Someone on Twitter has blocked me. Yes, after 10 years of bouncing around in there I’ve offended someone to such a degree that this person felt the need to turn me into persona non grata.

[You might be thinking to yourself, hokey smokes what has happened? Did Ms. Bean have a strong opinion tightly held that she foisted upon someone? Was she argumentative?]

My understanding is that it’s a badge of honor to be blocked on Twitter, so I’m taking this development in stride, trying not to be too prideful about it because I’m a pleasant woman, a bit snarky at times, but always genuine.

And grateful.

You see, the blocker wrote a positive tweet about her hometown. I, the blockee, mentioned that I thought the same thing that the blocker did. I concurred by saying *blah blah blah* about how wonderful it was that said hometown had persevered to overcome its challenges, brilliantly.

The blocker came back and pontificated on the state politics involved in the history of her hometown’s past difficulties. The ones I’d praised the hometown for overcoming.

Then I said the words destined to get me blocked. Yes I said, I AGREE WITH YOU and was blocked for it.

[You might be thinking to yourself, what the fork? Have we come to a time when agreement is tossed aside as quickly as disagreement? What gives?]

Thus from this exchange, for which I’m grateful because it gave me blog fodder, I’ve reaffirmed that no act of kindness goes unpunished.

Plus I’ve also experienced something I’ve mused upon for a long time. Let’s call it my audacious truth.

To wit, there is irony in everyone’s life. Case in point, even when I agreed with someone, they used it against me.

I believe this happens because once some people decide they don’t like you [for who knows what reason], no matter what you say, be it sincere, supportive, or logical, your words will make no difference to them. You are wrong and must be ignored.

In other words, audacious truth be damned blocked.

228 thoughts on “My Audacious Truth: In Which I Tweet Agreeably & The Consequence Thereof”

  1. Some folks just can’t overcome their need to hate, and in a pinch will create villians from nothing. One must feel sad for them, but one must also defend the good in life from them.

    Liked by 7 people

    • shoreacres, hi! The thing is that my audacious truth is universal. I’ve found that regardless of whether it’s social media or real life, some people will refuse to engage with someone for no apparent reason. It’s fascinating to watch how people communicate– and who they choose to take seriously and those they choose to cut off.

      Liked by 3 people

  3. Was this a person you actually know? Have met? I’m going to offer a different thought. A few years ago, I realized that I had accumulated a very large number of Facebook “friends” many of them folks I hardly knew from music festivals that I helped produce, and community organizations I volunteered for. Some were friends of friends I barely knew, if I met them at all. When Facebook started getting really snarky, I went through the list and removed a few hundred folks simply because I didn’t really know them, couldn’t remember who they were if I had met them, or, and this was the last and smallest amount, I was tired of getting posts that pissed me off. Perhaps this person was simply purging her list?

    Liked by 3 people

  4. Well, I can’t say I’ve ever been blocked on twitter – as far as I know. I don’t really understand twitter. But back in the days of forums, I have had the experience of being called names and been on the receiving end of rants about how negative I am and how unreasonable my response to a given poster was. And I sat back and looked at the computer confused. “But I was agreeing with you,” I said.

    People don’t always hear what you’re saying online. They sometimes make assumptions, certain that you are being negative or sarcastic when you think you’re being sweet and agreeable. The world is weird. I have long since given up on trying to defend myself from this.

    And, in case I wasn’t clear, I am agreeing with you.

    Liked by 4 people

    • Zazzy, so you’ve had this same thing happen! It’s obviously something that makes little sense, but is worthy of note. If only for the humor in it.

      I went back and re-read what I’d written, wondering if I’d been rude, but I had not. Your explanation about how some people are primed to view all communication as negative or sarcastic is probably the crux of the matter.

      AND THANKS FOR CLARIFYING THAT YOU’RE AGREEING WITH ME. Made me laugh out loud with that line. 🤣

      Liked by 2 people

  5. I suppose there’s a weird logic to blocking someone agreeable. After all, many people hate-follow others on Twitter, purely so they can mock their viewpoints (and truly, some really do need mocking or at least fact-checking).

    To them, the amiable is unbearable.

    I’ve blocked folks who are spoiling for a fight (mostly racists and misogynists and Russian bots), but mostly I just mute them.

    Liked by 3 people

    • AutumnAshbough, you make a good point. Many people hate follow people on any social media [maybe in real life too?] so that when you are agreeable you’re of no interest to them. If there’s no way to mock or argue with me, what’s the point of me!

      I’ve never blocked anyone on Twitter. Like you, I just mute them or unfollow them. No big deal, but then I’m amiable. 😊

      Liked by 2 people

  7. Being genuine and grateful often goes against the grain in social media. You’re supposed to be deceptive, boastful and entitled, MS Bean. And surely there’s something about that town you could hate. Now you’ve denied the other person the opportunity to attack you. It’s no wonder the person blocked you 😉

    Liked by 3 people

  8. I don’t have Twitter anymore, but hear it’s getting to be a mess there. I’m glad I left it some time ago along with Facebook. They’re just too much of a time suck and once politics started creeping into some of my contacts posts back in mid 2000’s I ditched them both and haven’t looked back.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Deborah, I deleted Facebook years ago. As for Twitter I usually interact with a few kind-hearted wordy souls who like to laugh and encourage each other. No politics or vitriol. I thought this woman was like that, but clearly not. Good for a laugh, though.

      Liked by 1 person

  9. When you said “…no matter what you say…” you nailed it.

    Being recently “unfriended” by a family member, this hit home for me.

    I was supporting a group of people, which in her mind, meant that I was disparaging another group. (As I understand the importance of words, I can assure you, this was NOT the case) But I digress. The point was, she was dead set on being offended on this particular day, and their was NOTHING that I could say to convince her otherwise.

    To this I say, cheers to audacious truth!🥂🌺

    Liked by 1 person

    • believableshe83, I understand your situation with your family member. Have had a similar situation unfold in my life, too– and it was based on her black or white thinking, not seeing the shades of gray. Once she decided I was wrong, she became offended by all that I said. Like you I’m articulate and careful with my words, but it was to no avail because she wasn’t hearing me anymore.

      Cheers to audacious truth right back at you. Thanks for joining in the conversation. 🥂

      Liked by 2 people

  10. I left Twitter long ago…. before it became the birthplace of hate and discontent. Wear your badge proudly, it’s proof you’ve arrived. And for Pete’s sake, stop being so agreeable.
    🤣

    Liked by 3 people

    • River, I’ve never found Twitter to be hateful, it’s Facebook that I despise. Deleted it years ago. If nothing else this incident made me laugh– and realize that my audacious truth plays out no matter where I go.

      Liked by 1 person

  11. I enjoy twitter with a grain (or 17) of salt because it’s just so…twitterish. Entertainment.

    The interesting thing to me when blocking happens in the circumstances you described is that the whole point of sharing on the web, which is globally accessible, is to invite perspectives that are different and diverse. By all means, block the haters and toxic people, but a difference of opinion? That to me is not block-worthy.

    Anyway, you’re better off without them. 😉

    Liked by 1 person

    • Exactly! Twitter is entertainment [and local information] for me. I have to admit that when this person blocked me for agreeing wholeheartedly, I couldn’t stop laughing.. I mean, really

      Like you said, block the haters and toxic people because that makes sense… but someone who agrees with you? To block that person suggests a craziness that I’m happy to step away from.

      Liked by 1 person

  12. That’s just weird. I’ve never been on Twitter so I can’t leave and I’m still on FB although I rarely go there, just once in awhile when a daughter or friend has posted something I want to comment on. Getting of FB was such a joy that I wished I’d done it sooner. But I had similar things happen sometimes there. I’d attempt a discussion in the most banal terms and get flamed for it. Just not worth it. The lack of civility everywhere these days is truly a problem. As for agreeing with you or not, I don’t know if I should or not. Perhaps if I do, you’ll trash my comment. 🙂

    janet

    Liked by 1 person

    • Janet, laughing out loud. Oh my, I promise not to trash you.

      You said it with: “The lack of civility everywhere these days is truly a problem.” I agree. This situation was odd because from my point of view agreeing with someone is good, but as many commenters have pointed out some people are here only to hate. Once the haters figure out you’re not here for the argument, you’re of no interest to them. Which seems extremely uncivil to me, the agreeable one.

      Like

      • To all these people I would suggest starting to volunteer somewhere to get their minds off of the trivial crap they’re focusing on right now and help people with real problems. Or get some professional help.

        Liked by 1 person

        • Yes, yes. I agree [oh dear!] with you. There are real problems in this world, go do something positive to solve them. Despite Trump’s overuse of it I like Twitter, but I also realize it is a limited forum, filled with tempests in a teapots really.

          Like

  13. I will have to find you on Twitter, Ally. I am still a Twitter novice and not sure how to navigate or Tweeting etiquette. Texting, tweeting….all words can be misconstrued. I happen to like Audacious Ally.😁

    Liked by 1 person

    • Erica/Erika, I’ll look for you, too, on Twitter. Usually the people who I follow and interact with there are quite pleasant. Occasionally snarky or ticked-off by life, but never rude or hateful. Like I said, 10 years and this is the first time I’ve been blocked. It’s a feather in my hat, I do believe.

      Liked by 1 person

  14. Do peoples cognitive abilities decline the longer they’re on Twitter? I feel as if you wrote about a 10 yr old in an adult body who just couldn’t get what they wanted. So there Ally Bean!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Deb, I don’t know that Twitter ruins your cognitive abilities, but I’ve been there 10 years so who knows? Maybe I’m less sharp now. All I know is that if I say I AGREE WITH YOU that’s a good thing. A positive message. At least to those of us who are still inclined to be civil. 😇

      Liked by 1 person

  15. Twitter is a bit confusing to me so I mostly stay off of it. Unless someone shares a funny tweet with me but I never have “tweeted” myself.
    I do feel the need to share these lyrics with you after your experience with a possible hater:
    “…And the haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate, hate
    Baby, I’m just gonna shake, shake, shake, shake, shake
    I shake it off, I shake it off . Whoo -oh”
    So yes, you did shake it off and continue with your own audacious truth that we all enjoy reading about! It’s the Twitter lady’s loss!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Ellen D, Twitter is confusing, that’s for certain. While I know that in certain corners of it the hate flies, I only pay attention to a small circle of people on Twitter, most of whom I’ve followed for years. And this incident was small potatoes when it comes to Twitter vitriol.

      I like your lyrics– which are exactly what I’ve done. Consider me shaking this off. I’m good at not taking things like this seriously, but I do like to talk about what happens along the way. If for no other reason than to try and make sense of it.

      Like

  17. This is so strange, but I agree – haters gotta hate. I tried twitter, but I don’t remember my sign-on, so I just don’t bother. After reading this, I’m feeling like I’m not missing much. It is a funny story though. Really funny when you consider how agreeable you were being.

    Like

    • ernie, I like Twitter, but my circle has always been small and tight and fun. I’m not there for the controversy, but like many commenters have said some people want to find fault, to hate, so they will. All of which confirmed for me that my audacious truth principle works in social media & in real life, too.

      Like

  19. I think part of the problem with twitter, texting, social media in general, perhaps even in reading a comment on our blogs, is that things can be taken out of context. For example, how I write something & how it sounds in my head may be very different in how you read that something & how it sounds in your head. Am I making any sense?! Although I am not on twitter, there are definitely people who I have on Facebook, that I just float on by when I see their posts. To engage is just an exercise in futility! There’s nothing stranger than people!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Lynn, you’re making good sense with this comment. Communication is tricky regardless of how sincere you might be. Words mean different things to different people– and you just never know how what you say will be interpreted. I’m not upset by what happened. I just found it funny, and worthy of discussion, because that kind of behavior happens everywhere in life. And it’s weird.

      Liked by 1 person

  20. There are people who have a peculiar need to always feel victimized and trod upon. It justifies their sour outlook and lack of progress through life. If they can’t find a genuine reason to feel offended or wronged, they’ll manufacture one. Congratulations, Ally, you were in the right place at the right time and met this person’s need to see themselves ill-treated. Such people are to be pitied and avoided. How nice of her to take care of the latter by blocking you.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Donna, your explanation of this person is spot on. I realize that now that you say it. It’s far outside of my worldview to ever think that I’m a victim, so I found this situation funny but you’re right. She is to be pitied for living such a sour life. Granted as the blockee I shall not be involved with her again, however I wish her no ill well. Can’t imagine being her though…

      Liked by 1 person

    • thefiftyedit, you are right. That’s exactly what this situation is an example of. I chalk it up to one of my favorite sayings: no act of kindness goes unpunished. I’m never allowed to forget that. 🙄

      Liked by 1 person

  23. That is weird and irrational behavior. Blocking someone who agrees with you? Why am I not surprised though?

    Like

    • Margaret, yes I don’t think any of us are surprised by this, but it did make me laugh out loud. Like many commenters have mentioned, haters gotta hate… and that seems to be what happened.

      Like

  24. What is wrong with people these days?! I’m not on Facebook or Twitter anymore, left years ago and am sure glad I did when I hear things like this. Stop being agreeable or I’m not talking to you anymore! WTF?!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Martha, made me laugh. I deleted FB years ago, too. I’m still on Twitter [obviously] but usually interact with a small pleasant crowd. Don’t know why I infuriated this person, but I’m guessing it had nothing to do with me, everything to do with her mindset.

      Like

  25. No-one’s blocked me on Twitter, but I love your attitude 🙂 Some years ago I was a regular user on a large & anonymous forum where they have a section called “am I being unreasonable?” which is well known for the forthrightness of opinions expressed. I contributed to a discussion about a certain store’s advertising campaign for a fashion line connected to breast cancer, which I – and many others – found somewhat offensive. I didn’t rant, rather offered another point of view – that of those who’d actually had breast cancer. A somewhat sleep deprived poster ticked me off soundly and called me a Joyless F***er. The reactions were mostly of the “OMG, she’s sworn at a Cancer Survivor”, whereas I just roared with laugher and changed my name immediately to Joyless F***er. I’ve proudly worn that badge for years now.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Deb, well you Joyless F***er! What a hoot, both the story of how you came by the name and your insistence on keeping it. Yours is an inspiring story regarding social media and how to handle trolls. I’m sorry to say that I have no such great takeaway from my Twitter experience, although I guess I could refer to myself as Ally the Blocked Bean… but that just doesn’t impart the distinction that yours does. I bow to your sense of humor.

      Like

  26. Yepper! Lost a long time friend through some nonsense like this that made no sense to me. I had gone through this a few times with her and decided that this time I wouldn’t coax her to discuss what was going on. I just let her go and went on with life. That was 25 years ago and I haven’t heard from her since. I haven’t thought of her until I read your post.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Kate, yes, the weirdly contrarian disagreeable behavior that I experienced isn’t limited to social media. I’ve had it happen in real life, too.

      I can understand why you let your friend go, because once someone shows you how illogical they are, and blames you somehow for it, it’s not easy to take them seriously again. And without trust, there’s not really a relationship. Just someone you once knew. I get it.

      Liked by 1 person

  27. I don’t do Twitter but I have been blocked on Facebook. I had the audacity to question the validity of someone’s post (she posted a “news” item from a satiric site, then proceeded to voice her outrage). When I pointed out that the original news item was satire, she wrote back, “how was I supposed to know?” When I replied that she could have double-checked the site like I did, she blocked me. Oh well… I guess I should have kept my mouth shut, but sometimes I can’t help myself.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Janis, if your former friend doesn’t understand satire and doesn’t like to own up to her mistakes, then she *might* not be a good friend for you. I can understand why you felt the need to correct her and her response to it tells you oodles about her, doesn’t it? I’m in awe of you for getting yourself blocked. Good job, rebel child.

      Liked by 2 people

  28. Ha…the only person I know of that has blocked me is Liz Cheney. It was a few years ago and I remember thinking she must block a lot of people if she blocked little ole me.Too bad, because she seems to be the only GOP member that is standing up against ‘the big lie” and I admire her for it. I’d let her know if I could. 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

  29. Did you bring a fork (as in “what the fork?”) to a knife fight? 😉 Maybe she thinks that her own opinion is full of horse sh*t and thought, Ms Bean must be full of it too. That’s the only logical reason I can come up with, which makes about as much sense as your “blocking.” My observation? It seems to me that people are becoming highly sensitive about their opinions and treat them as if they are facts. This is leading to all kinds of “punishments” such as not sitting at the cool table, aka, juvenile behaviour. Yikes.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Lynette, very clever word play. I guess I did bring a fork to a knife fight. Oh well. You’re right about how sensitive some people seem to be now. Juvenile for sure. I pretty much show up on Twitter and only speak up occasionally when something moves me to do so. I don’t think I’ll be breaking Twitter a la Kim Kardashian anytime soon. Works for me.

      Liked by 1 person

  30. Ha ha! Maybe she’s dyslectic in thought word and deed but I do know that once I blocked someone in error on twitter but was able to rectify that immediately. I kind of enjoy twitter, much of the stuff I follow is political and about all that is happening in my country, stuff that doesn’t get reported on TV or newspapers as they’re being too PC. I like to know what’s going on … and how weird people can actually be. My younger son gets a lot of flak for his outspoken views on issues and as he says, ‘haters gonna hate’. I follow a couple of Jungian sites as that’s my interest. I just wish that I wasn’t so ruddy addicted to it though. Your attitude is spot on Ally Bean, let it wash away like grime.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Susan, good point. This person could have accidentally blocked me, not realizing how the system worked. I’d only followed her a short while so I don’t know how new she was to Twitter. It makes no difference in the long run, because it made me laugh at my assumptions which is a good thing. Can’t take yourself too seriously.

      Your younger son is right about haters gonna hate, but I find Twitter entertaining. And I follow local news on it, so from that point of view it’s more a news outlet for me than a social media. I interact with a small group of people there, but nothing structured. Just whenever I get there I check on them.

      Liked by 1 person

    • bernieLynne, why yes it is insane. I hold no resentment toward this person who blocked me, but I do think there were a few screws loose. Interesting observation about Twitter. I agree, there can be a loneliness there. Maybe it’s because of the limits on tweet length? Makes all communication seemed more brusque.

      Like

  32. I don’t do Twitter, and have long given up on FB, so a few blogs and a local forum called “Next Door” are the only places you’ll find me expressing my humble opinion online. My mother taught me that if you can’t say something nice, keep your mouth shut. I don’t always adhere to that adage and some folks just deserve a big ol’ FO once in a while. Doesn’t sound like you earned yours. Oh well, who knows what she thought you said.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Suzanne, I deleted FB years ago and around here I’ve heard bad things about Next Door so I never joined it, however I am on Twitter. What made this situation so funny to me is that I said something nice. I have to wonder if I’d said something not nice would I then have been well received? Many commenters here seem to think so. Beats me.

      Like

      • Next Door can be entertaining, in a sick, perverted kind of way (like rubbernecking a traffic accident). But, it has its usefulness too. Especially with getting the word out about where/how to get the vaccine. Lots of neighbors helping neighbors on there too. I agree with everything you said btw. Please don’t block me!

        Liked by 1 person

        • Having heard about intense arguments between neighbors on Next Door I’m hesitant to join. Instead I rely on a friendly extroverted neighbor to keep me current. She knows everyone and everything so as long as she stays here I’m golden. 👍🏼

          Liked by 1 person

  33. Oy, vey! Sometimes you just have to groan, even if it’s the truth.

    Life is too short to get tangled up in these jumbles, my take. And “who knows what she thought you said.” Anyway, you have a blog post today, Audacious Ally. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

  36. I’d be laughing out loud with a glass of wine in my hand. Ridiculous. I know a lot of folks who love Twitter. Me – I deleted my account when politics heated up a while back. Life is interesting and some days you ‘really’ have to maintain a sense of humor which you did.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Judy, I did laugh out loud when I found out I was blocked immediately after agreeing with someone. Not agreeing just in principle, agreeing wholeheartedly. So ridiculous. I usually like Twitter, what little bit I’m there, but this was a first. Made for a good blog post.

      Liked by 1 person

  37. I’m sure I’ve been blocked but probably not for agreeing with someone. I do unfollow people who promote insane conspiracy theories … you can debate with them so why give them space in your twitter feed?

    Liked by 1 person

    • Jan, I unfollow people, too. If someone seems to be losing touch with reality I’m not going to hang around to see the final descent into madness. But as for being blocked, I feel I’ve achieved a Twitter milestone!

      Like

  38. Having watched US politics from afar and sat open-mouthed at the cognitive dissonance and pretzel manoeuvres some endure in order to always be disagreeable, I am not surprised at all that this staunch disagreeableness has seeped into even the most mundane of discussions. Perhaps she didn’t like the colour of your hat.

    Liked by 1 person

    • MOSY, well said. Cognitive dissonance and pretzel logic have taken over the minds of many people in this country. True dat. I didn’t think this person was goofy before she blocked me, but maybe she was and I didn’t see the signs. In any case it’s better for both of us that we no longer connect on Twitter. Bless her for making it so. 🙄

      Liked by 1 person

  39. I like your audacious truth, Ally. thanks for passing it along. And…another reason I just follow and comment on runners’ posts on Twitter. I must admit, I have not been blocked yet. As far as I know…

    Liked by 1 person

    • Laurie, the thing about my audacious truth is that it is universal. It happens in social media and in real life. It’s just that in social media it’s more obvious when someone blocks you. If I can get blocked on Twitter, anyone can. Hang tough, your time is a’coming! 😉

      Like

  40. I’m not on Tweetsville, or whatever it’s called, but I’m guessing this is a case of accidental fat-fingered blocking, meaning she was going for the smiley face icon and accidentally hit the “block” button instead. Just a theory, because it’s inconceivable to me that anyone could block you!

    Liked by 1 person

    • The Travel Architect, ha! I like your storyline of what happened better than the one that I really happened. I mean if I’d said something contradictory I might understand, but to agree politely then to be blocked for it? Too crazy for me. Just as well that we are no longer in contact.

      Liked by 1 person

  43. There are some things that are probably not worth the time it takes trying to understand them. This would probably be one of those things—because it has nothing to do with you and everything to do with the blocker, and I’m guessing there’s not much value in trying to understand her.

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    • Rita, you make a good point. I’m sure I did nothing that under normal circumstances would result in being blocked, so I’ll just put this incident under the heading of ‘not normal’ and move on. With a smile on my face, of course.

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  45. I don’t participate in Twitter, but it is interesting what might get a person Blocked by another, people can and will take offense at so many things, it’s difficult to fathom the reasoning behind it sometimes. So, now you have a Badge Of Honor at least, even if you have no idea why you earned it. *winks* I agree with some of the other comments, perhaps this individual was wanting to invite controversy and Create a Villain when they can’t legitimately find one?

    Like

    • Bohemian, you said it: “it’s difficult to fathom the reasoning behind it sometimes.” That’s my take on this absurdity, too. Plus there is something to the idea that some people want controversy and will find it where there is none. Like with me, the agreeable one. If nothing else I’ve got a good laugh out of this situation, so not entirely a bad thing.

      Like

  46. “I believe this happens because once some people decide they don’t like you [for who knows what reason], no matter what you say, be it sincere, supportive, or logical, your words will make no difference to them. You are wrong and must be ignored.”
    I think this attitude is more widely prevalent in our society as this type of behaviour has become more visible, acceptable and validated within realms such as politics (yikes!), ’causes’ such as the anti-vax movement etc.
    Rampant narcissism is a very lonely and destructive path for a society to walk IMHO.
    BTW: I’d wear that ‘blocked badge’ with pride! HA!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Laura, yes, sadly I see my audacious truth more now than ever before. You’re right, rampant narcissism is destructive. Four years with The Donald dominating the news, our society, the world, has encouraged many people to behave selfishly, priming them to be disagreeable while ignoring sincerity, truthfulness, facts. Hard to believe that by being supportive I got blocked, but there you have it. As many commenters have said, haters gotta hate.

      Liked by 1 person

  47. Has it really been over ten years since I’ve been on Twitter? This is a little embarrassing but as a Dave Matthews fan I followed him onto Twitter in 2008 (and even posted three of his tweets on my blog) but left it when he closed his account in 2009, I think. Surely it has changed over the years but somehow I found the Twitter world too confusing to manage. But I agree, it seems no good deed goes unpunished! As my mom used to say, some people are just spoiling for a fight.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Barbara, I joined twitter in 2011, for no other reason than to tweet that I’d written a blog post. Nothing so noble as following anyone in particular.

      While Twitter has changed over the years, it is still confusing so I only interact with a handful of people who seem to be genuinely kind. Got fooled by this person, though. Your mother was right: some people are just spoiling for a fight. Lesson learned, laughs laughed.

      Liked by 1 person

    • L. Marie, until Z-D wrote that comment I hadn’t thought about this situation in terms of haters, but he’s right [of course]. The absurdity of what happened is funny, but the underlying example of human behavior is just plain sad. So it goes

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    • Nance, amen sister! You said it. I stay on Twitter because there are a few lovely kids there, but most of the playground is full of bullies and toadies.

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  50. Ally, first I had no idea people were told if you blocked them! Now I feel bad as I’ve blocked a few odd characters in the world of Twitter but thought this went no further. Furthermore, I am very poor at interacting with anyone on there really – just don’t seem to have the time!

    I’m smitten with your concept of audacious truth! Yep, this can be a thing in all walks of life and can think of a few occasions when I’ve experienced something similar. But heck, as you say, you got an interesting post from the event and taught me something new!

    Here’s to hanging out with the gentle souls on Twitter!😀

    Liked by 1 person

    • Annika, you can mute people on Twitter and no one is the wiser, but if you block someone they are told when they try to access the blocker’s tweets. I wouldn’t feel bad about blocking someone, btw. You have to feel safe on social media.

      Yes, people will intentionally ignore you or misunderstand you in many situations. I just happen to have had it happen on Twitter which got me thinking about my audacious truth. And laughing.

      I like your idea of hanging with gentle souls. ‘Tis my preferred way, too.

      Liked by 1 person

  51. I love a good laugh at the craziness of the world and some of the antics of the people who inhabit it. Sometimes I feel like I’m on the wrong planet. Oh, dear, I hope I haven’t been blocked from it.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Deborah, ain’t it the truth? I sometimes wonder if I’m on the right planet, too. People be crazy and weird and potentially confusing, if you think about them too much.

      [Speaking of blocked, I’ve tried to comment on your blog, but have not been able to do so. Your A-to-Z Challenge posts were fun and uplifting, as usual.]

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      • Oh, Ally, I hope you know I haven’t blocked you! I have no idea why you can’t post. The inner workings of such things are unfathomable to me and crazy-making as well. But thank you for the kind words.

        Liked by 1 person

        • Oh I know it wasn’t personal. Don’t worry about that. I cannot explain why some people cannot comment here, either. Random is as random does– and all things bloggy are wonky in my experience.

          Liked by 1 person

  52. Goodness, I have engaged in blocking on Twitter but I limit my blocking to bots and trolls (one of my favorite pastimes). But, really, how hilarious that someone blocked you because you agreed with what they had said. Maybe the person thought you were being sarcastic, that you were mocking them. I’ve observed that sarcasm does not work on Twitter. Either people take a sarcastic remark literally or they read every tweet as sarcastic. You can’t win. And, so, it’s the loss of the person who blocked you. Now they have one less reader who is willing to share her audacious truth.

    Liked by 1 person

  53. That is so weird, Ally. I believe there are those people who either just look to block or they have warped sense of what agreement means or they forgot to take their meds that day.

    Liked by 1 person

  55. No good deed goes unpunished. People are just weird
    I agree with the commenters who say those who are looking to be offended will always find a reason to be so. Somehow being a victim is so admirable and desirable now. Maybe the research is wrong: could cell phones be causing brain damage?
    In any case – got a chuckle out of this one. People are sooo weird!

    Liked by 1 person

    • philmouse, I hadn’t thought of the victim angle on this incident but many commenters have suggested that. Maybe she wanted me to start a fight so that she’d feel vindicated? I dunno. All I know is that I WAS NICE, DAMMIT. Go figure…

      Liked by 1 person

  56. Well, that’s a new one. Being blocked for AGREEING with someone. WELL. That is strange indeed. I often wonder what goes on in other people’s heads, but then again, perhaps it is best to leave an undisturbed veil. I mean, do we WANT to know why this person behaves this way? Probably not. What would happen if someone DISAGREED? The mind boggles.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Nicole, all you said, YES. I don’t want to know more about this person. She seemed pleasant, albeit a bit intense, but overall she was informative tweeting about her interests. Clearly I bothered her and that’s ok. I, the amiable one, walk away with no ill will– just a renewed sense that people be weird.

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  57. So interesting, Ally. I once asked a sincere question about someone’s point of view (not intended to be argumentative, truly curious) and was cut off. I still feel bad about it on occasion, but I truly believe additional enquiry would just create further animosity. I’ve been witness to other misunderstandings involving this person. Sometimes it is better to walk away wishing the person well. As you said, go figure…

    Liked by 1 person

    • Christie, you have to wonder how asking a simple sincere question can upset someone, but it does. I’ve had that happen in real life, wherein I asked for clarification and suddenly I was the ‘enemy.’ Like you said, sometimes you see a pattern of behavior so you know it’s best to walk away. People tell you who they are in odd ways.

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    • Matt, you know because when you go to look at someone’s tweets a message comes up and says you’ve been blocked. It’s a lovely message, not at all aggressive, just one that gets to the point.

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  59. I imagine I have probably been blocked by several Twitter users despite the fact that I’ve never even logged onto Twitter in my life. The mere existence of other people out there must be a terrible burden on those who think they’re the only one with anything to say….

    Liked by 1 person

    • evilsquirrel13, well said. You’re onto something. For those people who aren’t inclined to care about anyone except themselves, all of us other people are a burden. Especially when we speak up!

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    • Joanne, yes I know what you mean. I don’t say much on Twitter and only chat with a few people there, but this person who I thought was positive, didn’t seem to like me being positive. Oh well! 🤷‍♀️

      Liked by 1 person

  61. If the title is your quote, you should definitely be a writer, Ally! BS-es, that’s one reason I’m not on Twitter. Unnecessary baggage … I know am harsh, but it’s quoted way too much in news articles right now . Jesh

    Liked by 1 person

    • Junie-Jesh, I cannot take credit for the phrase ‘audacious truth.’ It’s from the quote by Justine Musk that I shared at the top of this post. She said it years ago, but it holds true.

      I understand your reluctance to be on Twitter. It can be fun and entertaining, but then I hang with a small crowd of nice people. Well, all except one, of course. 🙄

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  62. I’ve had similar experiences, though as I am not on Twitter, not blocked per se. Sometimes people on FB will post some stupid meme or whatever, and sometimes they are critical of people of whom I am ALSO critical, but the thing they are being criticized FOR is untrue. Like saying someone is a hypocrite when you disagree with them, even though their point of view is actually consistent. (Consistently wrong, in my opinion, but consistent.) I have mentioned in comments that perhaps it would be better to keep our criticisms factual so as to retain our legitimacy, and have been accused of liking the person that was being criticized, etc. So if the person were Donald Trump, and I said, no, don’t criticize him for this, he actually hasn’t done that, I can give you a list of 5,000,000 other things to criticize him for…then this person would say, “how can you defend this monster…” to which I say, I am not defending him, just, again, saying that our arguments against him would perhaps hold more water if they were truthful ones.

    It’s tiring and pointless, so often I now have given up on such folly. People on both sides decide who you are based on what they heard or perceived, not what you said, and then they ignore everything else.

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    • PS, I got a weird message when I logged in to wordpress to comment, and when I refreshed my browser per instructions, it told me I was not authorized to access the back end editor to your blog. Please know if you get some alert about that, that that is what happened, I did not try to access your blog, and no one has hacked me and tried either. 🙂

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      • J, I had all sorts of problems with my commenting system yesterday. I don’t know why my ability to comment and to receive them went bonkers, but it did. Your comment is here on the blog, but I never received an email about it which is how I have the system set up. Weird all around, but I contacted Akismet and they fixed it [fingers crossed] for me. I appreciate you telling me this. Thanks.

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    • J, I can see how your ability to be nuanced in your thinking could make some people angry with you. The truth of things often upsets people, so you are going against the grain there, too. I get what you’re saying about the situations you find yourself in, but you are thinking critically and some people don’t like to think at all. Folly it is to speak with them. You’re right about how many people decide who you are not based on reality. Those who pay attention to the real you are rare.

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  63. People have too much time on their hands these days Ally and I shouldn’t be appalled by their bad behavior on social media sites anymore. I follow a few nature sites, the weather and news on Twitter but I do pop onto Twitter a few times a day to see what subjects are trending. The comments made don’t pertain to the subject half the time and people go off on people in a heartbeat.

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    • Linda, you make a good points about Twitter. I like checking in there to see what’s up in the news, too. Plus I follow a few very funny people who make me laugh so I find it entertaining. Which I suppose this situation was… be nice get blocked. Could be Twitter’s new tagline!

      Liked by 1 person

  64. Not to sound naïve, (and I know that I am, still) but I just don’t “get” haters. What’s the point? What. Is. The. Point? I’m not a big Twitter user, cause I always seem to see the same people there. But maybe that’s because I skip the tweets by people I don’t know. Haha. I think I’m afraid to read the sad, ugly, homophobic, sexist, racist (fill in the blank) comments that one can find on Twitter. They end up making me sad and to wonder how the human race will survive with all that Hate swirling around. On the very plus side, I love reading blogs, because then my hope for the human race grows bigger and happier.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Pam, I’m with you about haters. I may use the word ‘hate’ from time to time, but I’m usually saying something like, “I hate green peppers.” I’m not being vile and rude toward a person. I see no point in hating people in general and intentionally looking for the wrongness within them. BUT many folks are wired to hate, I guess. To look for controversy where none exists. Case in point.

      Totally agree with your line: “I love reading blogs, because then my hope for the human race grows bigger and happier.” Having suggested agreement, please don’t block me. 😉

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    • Natalie, honestly I couldn’t stop laughing about being blocked. I’m a nice person, but not everyone likes that. Make no assumptions, I guess.

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  66. WHAT THE FORK?
    That is insanity and I can see why it made you giggle and perhaps scratch your head. Who knows what is going on with people anymore; maybe he/she is slowly falling apart and wants to only argue.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Suz, your explanation is as good as any. I cannot explain any of it, nor do I have to. I figure this person showed me who she is and now I’m better off not following her. Like I said above, I’m trying to be upset about this but I just can’t. It’s too absurd.

      Liked by 1 person

  67. Pingback: The week gone by — May 9 – A Silly Place

        • I know how to block people on Twitter because when I first started in 2011 I was overwhelmed by porno accounts. I blocked them all and that was that. But since then I don’t think I’ve blocked anyone. Now as for muting someone, that’s a different story…

          Liked by 1 person

  70. Yeah, totally agree with you. If they don’t like you, there’s a fair probability that they never will. I don’t understand why this person blocked you. You didn’t say anything offensive as far as I read. But then human beings are weird.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Vivi, you nailed it, people be weird. And this is a case of that. I probably have laughed too much about what happened and should be more upset, but I can’t be. It’s too absurd.

      Liked by 1 person

  71. Yes, I thought what the fork. And now I’m jealous as anything that I haven’t been blocked. Maybe I’m using Twitter wrong. Maybe I should be more engaged. But I get tired thinking about it hahaha. Well, congratulations are in order, I guess. You are now in the Twitter Hall of Fame!

    Liked by 1 person

  72. Goodness!! I can’t believe you were blocked! But you are so right – I always say that if someone has decided to make you a villain in their story, nothing you do will change it. Any attempts will just be used as future fodder.

    Makes for a great blog post though. 😉

    Liked by 1 person

    • Markus + Micah, well said, my little moonbeams. People do what they do for their own reasons– and this is a case of that. I’ve no idea why I was blocked but I know I was being nice so I feel like this is absurd, not mean-spirited.

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  74. Oh wow at someone blocking you because you agreed with them. People can be strange. Like they were allowed to make the comments in hand but you can’t? I like how you write how at least it gave you a blog post, though. Haha. I would think the same.

    Liked by 1 person

    • webgirluk, you said it with: “People can be strange.” I have no real explanation for why I was blocked, but can assure you I’ll live a long and fruitful life in spite of it.

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  75. What a strange person to block someone who concurs with them. They have to be so socially media twisted as to want, or need, to spar with others to get their social media ‘hit,’ which Twitter is so renowned for. I am glad you are able to find the silver lining by turning this into fodder for the blog!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Amanda, yes definitely strange behavior. Many commenters have suggested that it matters not why this person did this– and that I’m better off not connecting with this person. I agree, ever onward go I, safe in my knowledge about who to avoid. 🙄

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  76. Hi ally
    I notice zen den mentioned the haters gonna hate factor
    And this blocking behavior also reminds me of something I heard about some folks Who “ax” things or the “cancel culture” (which I am still understanding myself)
    But there are folks that just ax whatever doesn’t work for them – it is like an immature selfishness lhmnm

    Liked by 1 person

  78. Dear Ally, I don’t do Twitter because I can’t keep my mouth shut so it is a preventative strategy. Hence, I am not at all qualified to comment on this subject, but when has this ever stopped me. It seems to me your twitter person is a twit and doesn’t know how to have a conversation.

    Liked by 1 person

  79. Hi😂 I came across your page and I have absolutely fallen in love with your writing style haha. I actually enjoyed reading the articles that I have read from your page so far. I’ll definitely be back here again 😊

    Liked by 1 person

  80. Pingback: 11 of my blog friends reimagined as plants – Markus + Micah

  81. Found you on Tracy’s bog this week and jumped over to see what had her so enthusiastic 😊. Now I see that you are clever and insightful and your post (and your previous post) really made me smile. Sorry you’ve lost some blogging friends due to the pandemic – I’ve had the same experience but also am enjoying some new bloggers who have taken it up as a result of the pandemic. Anyway, just wanted to let you know I enjoyed my first visit to your posts – have a lovely Sunday!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Tina, thanks for stopping by to read and comment. I appreciate it. You make a good point that there are many new bloggers now who started because of the pandemic and that’s cool. I think of blogging like that old Girl Scout camp song: “make new friends but keep the old, one is silver & the other’s gold.”. [Probably dated myself with that, didn’t I?] Happy Sunday to you, too.

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  82. Although they wouldn’t be reading it, if blocked, my response would be good riddance. I haven’t jumped into Twitter with both feet, but have unfollowed and even unfriended a few people on Facebook that I find combative. I don’t need that in my life. Happy to discuss, but respectful of others and their opinions.

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  83. Excellent use of the situation for your blog! Reminds me of a situation recently when I heard from a friend who was unfriended by another friend on Instagram – she liked her family posts but didn’t care for the info sharing that was contrary to her beliefs. The two had been friends since Junior High (well over 40+ years – true friends, right?). Boom, just like that she unfriends for 24 hours. The next day she was full of remorse and sent a request to re-friend – my friend didn’t flinch, added her back, and continued on with her posts as before. I’m sure the un-friend person still dislikes the infomercials. But perhaps has more tolerance for her own reactions to that information now. I keep praying for people to have resilience in all the silliness of social media.

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    • Shelley, yes you said it. There is silliness on social media and I just move on. Not that I don’t notice the BS but try to keep on keeping on. I think lots of social media misuderstandings come down to people who aren’t articulate about what they’re saying. They may mean well, but don’t come across as such. 🤷‍♀️

      Liked by 1 person

  84. Found you on Mark’s blog and I got a kick out of this post because crap like that befuddles me. I didn’t read the massive amount(!) of comments, but I’m wondering if the Person Who Canceled You just doesn’t like people commenting on his/her tweets? As in, wants to just pontificate alone?

    My nephew/Godson blocked me on Twitter and I never even followed him or commented. I’m guessing he didn’t want me randomly looking him up and then telling his parents what he tweeted? Cracked me up!

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    • Bijoux, amen Sister, I think your’re right that many people want “to just pontificate alone.” And I stepped on this person’s toes. Not my intention, but that’s how she took it.

      I think it’s hilarious that your nephew blocked you in a preemptory move. Heaven forbide that you pay attention to him and what he has to say! Wouldn’t want that 🙄

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