Breezy Day, you spoke my mind. Some of your sentences like, " It sounds like
you feel the need to be really smart in what you
are interested in so that you can prove to
yourself your worth"-- are SO BANG ON target! You are correct, I use my outer image and knowledge as the basis for self-esteem reinforcement. Its a curse.

Its not like I'm afraid if stating unpopular or controversial viewpoints. I'm okay with everybody disagreeing as long as they're being rational, (and there are a lot of forums which are pretty open-mindes towards diverse viewpoints and don't jump on anybody that dares to be different) but there are certain places like Facebook groups where people have more of a herd mentality and are quick to resort to bullying. Its really tough to get over that, makes you feel like absolute shite. :'(

I'm so tired of this.