As it is getting close to a major election, many of these comments are politically based; however, they have been present for a long time. Why is it necessary to be hateful when one does not agree with a political party or the person(s) who work within that party? I must admit I think back to comments I may have made about various people and wonder if I was that rude and intolerant. Maybe, but I know that now I will opt to criticize the ideology not the person. Hopefully this can be done in a constructive manner.
I recognize the fact that it is imperative that I not look at comments on Facebook and other social media. It seems that this is fertile ground for angry insults and degradation of various people and beliefs. That being said, I do sometimes succumb to viewing comments. Recently one really challenged me to keep my opinion to myself or lower myself to the same type of insults I was reading.
The post was about Planned Parenthood. I do not choose to go into the pros and cons about this organization. What disturbed me was the comment made by one particular person. This person indicated he/she was a Catholic who was Pro Life. They went on to say that the idiot liberal Pro Choice Democrats were the ones murdering babies, etc.etc. There was more to the post but it really isn't necessary to elaborate on the comments.
I am one of those liberal Democrats who is Pro Choice. I am not an idiot. I am not pro abortion. I have different opinions based on life experience and personal beliefs.
If I remember correctly, Jesus taught to cease judgment, to forgive, to love and to care for others. Obviously this person missed the message.
Why can't we discuss things rationally? Years ago I worked with a young woman who was as spiritually opposite me in her beliefs as anyone could be. At lunch we would discuss our beliefs. We did this with respect. She honored my opinions and I honored hers. Neither one of us changed the other one's mind but we understood each other just a little bit better. Such a shame more of these discussions are not taking place now.
All the great spiritual leaders of the past have taught love and acceptance. Is this so easy to forget or do we get so caught up in something we believe that we just don't give a damn about other peoples feelings?
What can we do to heal this anger and rudeness?
Treat others as we wish to be treated.
Be kind.
Bless those who are mean and hateful because they need it most.
and
Remember the Golden Rule. It can be found in every faith tradition as shown below.
Love and Blessings,
Mareda
