For the first time ever, I am beginning the New Year by silencing several of my social media friends who have a penchant for posting critical rants, most of which are copied and pasted from some other questionable source. The insurrection at the Capitol on January 6, demonstrates the consequences of irresponsible denigration so rampant on the internet. I have grown tired of the disrespect shown from both sides of our polarized society. Too many people with too many opinions based on too much misinformation.
Conspiracy theories abound. Some people believe anything but trust no one. It seems like a contradiction. Our government is perceived as an enemy. Anyone in a position of authority is an oppressor. These paranoid radicals have always been around, but social media has brought them together. When our nation is not at war against a common transgressor, we instead have to fight one another.
My views are conservative, and I definitely align with the Republican platform and its respect for life. Yet, I find myself silencing many like-minded friends on social media due to their continued defense of the president despite his despicable behavior. Both sides are guilty of fanning the flames. As Catholic Christians, we need to treat each other with respect and put a stop to baseless accusations and name-calling.
Our parish is distributing a little book called Do Something Beautiful for God, the essential teachings of Mother Teresa, that contains some of her words of wisdom for each day of the year. The January 9 message from Mother says, “Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.” The same could be said for harsh words. They can promote peace or instigate unrest. They can be forever uplifting or inflict permanent scars.
The time has come to step back and take a breath, to seek truth backed up with facts, to remain calm, and rely on common sense. Arguments are never won with intimidation and threats of violence. Speak the truth with calm and confidence. Make sense, earn respect and gain a convert.
