Why I Haven’t Pressed Delete

If you want to know how I really feel:

I am sometimes plagued with thoughts that I should delete my social media accounts and live the rest of my life in the quiet of the Northwoods.

Some might wonder for a time where I went; most wouldn’t. It would be a privilege afforded to few: the relative anonymity of life on a dirt road, surrounded by quirky dogs and flower gardens. It would be easier and quieter –– certainly less stressful –– not to subject myself to threats on the internet. I wouldn’t have to work with teams on security plans and arrange for armed guards to walk me to my hotel room when I am speaking on college campuses. I could go back to not being recognized in airports, and it’s unlikely that I would become the target of anyone’s political violence.

I could do it, I tell myself.