Be Willing!

As I read more and more posts, from more and more people, regarding the “state of things” these days, I see a subtle theme taking shape. It seems there needs to be an argument for every statement, no matter what that statement is, or what it has to do with. Someone posts an opinion about any one of the major events in the news these days and everyone, on every platform, seems to have a need to point out all the flaws with that opinion. And it doesn’t usually stop there – the worst part is usually in the comments section below the original article or opinion, once the commentors start arguing.

Now don’t get me wrong, I realize everyone has their own opinion.  When you post something publicly, you are opening yourself up to the opinions and arguments of others, and I don’t have a problem with that part. What I’m talking about goes a little deeper. Usually, especially with hot topics, the many different opinions in the comments become attacks, and both sides of the issue begin calling names and really spewing hate at each other. And again, it’s not the arguing, or even the spewing that concerns me…it’s the actual hate and disgust I see people feeling toward each other, even their neighbors!

So many people have become convinced that anyone not in agreement with their position must be “stupid”, “dumb”, “ignorant”, “evil”, ” or many other more colorful adjectives. There truly seems to be hate between people who don’t even know each other, based solely on a position they’ve taken regarding one issue or another. And this is definitely not confined to one group or side of any issue. I’ve seen some people’s comments appear on numerous posts or articles, as if they are intentionally seeking out others to argue with, so that they may assert the brilliance of their opinion and prove how stupid the “other guys” are.

Today, I challenge you to look for the good in your neighbors and all of your fellow citizens. I challenge you to resist spewing anger at, or even judging in your mind, those who disagree with you, even if you are angry. Even more, I challenge you to think long and hard about why you think you dislike or hate them…you probably don’t even know them. Click on their profile and browse their photos…you will find you have more in common with them than you think. You will find that you are the same in many ways. You will find that there is beauty and good in them, and in the world, you just have to be willing to see it.

Feel free to share your experiences with this issue. What are some other ways we can look for the good in our fellow humans?