I have one. He/she shows up, makes a post on a thread directed to me. Then back in the shadows.
A couple years back I had one too. This could be the same one - who knows. This shadow boxing match moved to an off-forum ring. But still the same nonsense. Bob and weave from behind the shadows. I can't see who/what I am fighting. And the fighting seems unfair that way. Besides, all the jabs are being landed as if I am blinded by the dark. All the time insults are being thrown ruthlessly, with the invitation to 'fight back'.
So, I stepped into the shadows more deeply, and landed a punch that was unexpected. THe shadow boxer saw that I did not box from the same position of fear that he/she did. That I was unwilling to allow an unfair fight to continue. I threw a dominant right, then an uppercut, trying to sent my hidden opponent into the light that streams from reality. My defensive stategy was offense - an offense that is never expected from those who hide in the shadows. Much as a rapist/thief who jumps from the bushes to assail the unwary passerby, shadow boxers do the same. When mace or a brandished weapon appears, they also flee like a coward.
So as I weave about the shadows, I am no longer to be listed as unsure of the attacker or his motives. I have located my prey, and my punches sting more than his.
Shall we continue into a second round, or a third. Will he/she just flee like the coward in the shadows? Or will the bell sound as she/he throws the towel? Was it an honest challenge? Or did the shadow boxer expect me to take a dive? Will we clench and just remove the gloves?
We shall see.
And so it goes.
Jeff