Like Aura, I completely agree in principle but not always in practice. I am much more likely to respond for a friend (or in this case, two), which is essentially what you did. Although mine was addressed to the attacker, I always bear in mind that my friends are part of my audience and I want them to know that they are loved and supported.

But, I also run on the theory that trolls are sad, lonely people. So unless I lose my temper (which has happened once or twice, sorry I’m a redhead!) on these rare occasions that I choose to interact with them, I try to turn them around or at least earn some grudging respect (which does indeed happen, if rarely). And even if I can’t, perhaps I’m creating a soft spot that will allow them to treat someone else better. Maybe they were about to fall off the edge and do something really horrible, but are now rethinking it. There are so many weird connections in this world that we don’t always see or understand, but we may play an unknown role. I tell my daughters to protect the victim, but be kind to the bully, too. As you say, Love one another. (Of course, once in awhile, I just go out swinging…sigh.)