self.chatsRef = ref.child("ABC").child(xyz)

    self.chatsRef.queryLimited(toLast: 100).observe(.value, with: { snapshot in
        self.data.removeAll()

        self.hideProgressHUD()

        for item in snapshot.children {
            if let child = item as? DataSnapshot {
                if let dict = child.value as? NSDictionary {
                    self.shouldAdd = true

                    // filter our flagged messages
                    // set shouldAdd to false if flagged

                    // filter our blocked users
                    // set shouldAdd to false if blocked user

                    // only add if appropriate
                    if self.shouldAdd {
                        self.messageData.append(dict)
                    }
                }
            }


            // reload the tableview
            DispatchQueue.main.async {
                self.refreshControl.endRefreshing()
                self.chatRoomTableView.reloadData()
            }
        }
    })