A few of the blogs that I responded to in the past few days that spoke of either feeling the desire to self harm or admitting to self harm have been deleted under this rule. Now, while I understand that there are certain aspects of the subject that could be considered triggering for others on here, such as a description of any acts of self harm, it makes absolutely no sense that blogs about the general subject or about emotional distress should be removed. I understand that for many of the young people who use this website, their blog is a place of comfort and honesty. It is where they can express themselves, and where they can admit their mistakes and receive support in the hopes of not repeating them. There are so many who do not have that in the real world, and this is their safe-haven.
I firmly believe that allowing distressed youth to express themselves in such a safe and supportive environment would be beneficial to their overcoming obstacles, rather than detrimental. I think that there is a good possibility that the only reason this rule is in place is to allow the band to save face after the unfortunate Hannah incident. It is in place to try and dispel the common thought that MCR is an "emo" band, and that their fans and followers are largely young, depressed, and potentially suicidal.
Well, you can't hide from the truth.
A band of this sort will always attract a certain number of those exact kids - And why? - Because they seek them out. In their words, their actions, they do what they can to help the exact group of youth that they are now trying to censor. I believe that not only is it wrong, but it is hypocritical of the band's PR people to put such a foolish rule in place.
While I don't expect my thoughts to change what is considered a zero-tolerance policy regarding emotional honesty, I do hope that it will allow the kids on here to feel comfortable enough to open up - To myself, and to other fans - Through private messages, online friendships, and perhaps slightly more cryptic admissions regarding the unfortunate truth that the PR people are trying so desperately to avoid.
Don't be afraid to express yourself. Don't be afraid to admit your mistakes.
If they delete it, fuck 'em. I probably already had the chance to read it, and message you anyway.
