And no, I don't mean, the supposed "Playful Bullying" (that will upset me too, same with being teased), or being even lightly prodded.

The other day, I was questioned on whether I "actually am a leftist", by a friend. After I nervously answered fairly basic questions such as believing in healthcare and collective labor, they weren't convinced. Ever since that day, I felt like I couldn't be a leftist, especially since I lost any confidence in my ability to be "better" according to that person's standards. If I couldn't satisfy their standards that one time, what would be the point of trying to read theory and trying again? Yes I admit, I haven't tried to read theory. I have no confidence that I would do it correctly.

So, I was already completely lacking in confidence in actually being a good enough leftist. But after that incident where I was bullied and picked on, even for a few minutes... Something in me gave up trying to keep up with the people on this website. It also made me fear and lose confidence in trying, for fear that I would encounter other "Secret Tests of Character" like that.

I feel as though in terms of personality, I am too quiet, too shy, and I have too little to say or contribute anyways, to feel at home here. It feels as though speaking the loudest and having lots to say is what matters the most here, and that is something I cannot do.

So, given that everyone insists "read theory", which I haven't been able to, does this mean I am not at the standards I seem to see here?

  • ProletarianDictator [none/use name]
    ·
    6 hours ago

    I completely disagree. I tried the audiobook route, felt overwhelmed and like I retained nothing. Purchased a physical copy, did like 50 pages a week, and took notes. The text feels like it needs it too. Couldn't imagine making it through with how good my brain is at drowning out background speech.

    • Hestia [comrade/them, she/her]
      ·
      6 hours ago

      Different strokes for different folks. I don't think I would have been able to make it through by reading it alone. Next time I decide to tackle it I'll probably listen to the audio book and resort to a book if there's any sections that I feel need a deeper analysis.

      • TheDoctor [they/them]
        ·
        43 minutes ago

        Both forms of consumption are valid forms of literacy. People just process information differently, for sure