Let Me Just Set You Straight

"If you don't agree with me, 

I obviously haven't explained myself well enough, 

So let me just try again. If you still don't agree, 

then you must be hard of hearing 

so let me just say it again, a little louder." 

~My family

Here's something to chew on.

Everyone is in a completely different place and/or head space from you or I when they come on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. A post meant to be funny can actually be hurtful. A "theological clarification" can sound self-righteous. Some posts are meant to stir discussion, generate likes, laughs, and so on. But, finally, a friend has articulated what can be rather off-putting about commenters.

"Just wishing every last thing a person posts (online) wasn't seen as license to discredit, dismiss or disagree."

I've had to learn that not everything is meant for comment. Not everything merits comment. My opinion is not that superior and neither is yours. We don't have to set everyone straight. If "facts" are blatantly wrong, then contact the person privately, not publicly. (I learned that the hard way and it changed a friendship forever.)

Have we, perhaps, all become a little too thin skinned? Too easily offended? You think, maybe, others feel the same way about what you say?

Did you know, (and hang onto your hats, people, because this will come as a shock to some of you)... You can actually read something you disagree with online and just scroll on by without commenting? You really don't need to give your opinion about Every. Single. Thing. And yes, I realize this is my opinion, but it primarily refers to reactions and commenting.

Think how you would feel if, every time you opened your mouth at work, three or four people stop and say to your face: "You're wrong!" Then they call you names and suggest things about your level of intelligence.

Food for thought. Debate has its place, but not every single time.

If the shoe fits... well, buy the pair. If you disagree... well, just move along, there's nothing to see here.



Photo by Victoria Heath on Unsplash