Dear Nashie,

I recently got this app on my phone called Brighten, an anonymous compliment app, and I’ve gotten some not-so-nice comments. What should I do?

-Anonymous Junior

Dear Anonymous Junior,

Sounds like there are some people out there who are trying to bring you down, rather than brighten your day. I think we’ve all been there, but I would recommend deleting the app as soon as possible.

You could keep the app if you really wanted to keep receiving compliments, but you also run the risk of getting even more hurtful comments. I don’t think you should take the risk.

As harmless as the app’s name is, you don’t want to be seriously hurt by a cyberbully.

I’ve found that the problem with apps and websites that allow people to message you anonymously is that they can oftentimes be used in the wrong way. The digital age that we live in has made communication – both good and bad – possible in the tap of a finger or the click of a button.

The most important thing to keep in mind, though, is that you shouldn’t take these comments personally in any way. All this means is that someone out there decided to write a shallow comment because they didn’t have anything better to do with his or her time.

I remember that a couple of years ago, when ask.fm was all the rage, a couple of my friends were called offensive names by people who messaged them anonymously. Although I personally never received these types of comments, I understand the kind of terrible feelings that verbal abuse can generate.

The phrase “sticks and stones may break your bones, but words will never hurt me” is probably one of the most false statements I’ve ever heard. Words hurt, and they hurt a lot.

It can be extremely tempting to dwell on these types of negative comments. After all, most Hockaday girls are their most critical judges. But keep your chin up and head held high! Focus on what makes you feel inspired and happy and do something to pamper yourself, whether that means taking a bubble bath, going for a run or even just going to bed at a decent hour.

And know that by pressing the delete button on Brighten, you’re simultaneously bringing a little more sunshine into your life. To quote Miley Cyrus: forget the haters ‘cause somebody loves ya.

Best wishes,

Nashie a.k.a Eshani