As technology and the internet continue to advance, it unfortunately also provides a platform for bullies and unhappy people to attack strangers with their words. It seems that certain individuals are more commonly targeted, even in today’s age.
Jennifer Knapp Wilkinson, a full-time mom who loves crocheting, experienced firsthand the cruelty that can occur online. While shopping at her local Walmart, Jennifer lost her balance and fell. Struggling to catch herself on nearby shelving, she found it especially challenging because she is bound to a scooter. Despite the lack of people around her, Jennifer managed to right herself. Little did she know, someone decided to take a picture of her fall and share it online instead of offering assistance or checking if she was okay.
The internet users who saw the photo immediately began to mock Jennifer for her weight and for falling. They hurled hateful comments and insults, displaying a shocking level of anger towards a woman they knew nothing about. Unbeknownst to them, Jennifer has health issues and is a fighter who refuses to back down.
Instead of shrinking away from the conflict, Jennifer decided to speak up for herself. In a courageous post, she shared her story and confronted the accusers. She explained that her spinal condition, spondylolisthesis, sometimes causes pain and weakness in her legs. The longer she stands, the higher the likelihood of her falling. On that particular day, she was feeling particularly weak and in pain, both physically and mentally, but she still went grocery shopping for her family.
Jennifer wanted the world to understand that disabilities are not always visible. She emphasized that people should not make fun of others without knowing the struggles they face on a daily basis. She condemned the photo taken without her consent, pointing out that she did not choose to be photographed at a low point in her life. Furthermore, she confronted the accusations of laziness and assumptions that being overweight or physically impaired is a choice. Jennifer reminded everyone that obese people are still human beings deserving of respect.
In her powerful message, Jennifer sought understanding and compassion rather than seeking apologies or pity. She simply wants to be treated as a person, just like anyone else.
Jennifer’s grace and resilience in the face of overwhelming negativity is truly inspiring. Despite the often negative tone of the online world, individuals like Jennifer bring light to the darkness by standing up for themselves and others. Let’s all learn from her story and strive to be more empathetic and compassionate towards our fellow human beings.
What are your thoughts on this? We would love to hear from you in the comments!
