I really want to post this on Facebook, but I can’t. However, I want to get it out somewhere. I’m getting sick and tired of people posting political comments on Facebook calling people of different political beliefs (or ideals?) as idiots or morons or some other derogatory term. I have friends from across the political spectrum and I do not post political statements because I know it would hurt their feelings.
However, frankly, I’m getting tired of being called names. Below is what I really want to comment on a few people’s statuses calling me (not in particular, but people of the same political persuasion as me) an idiot, moron, or un-American.
“Perhaps, you would like to rephrase your comment. It's never nice to name call.* At least, I like to think that you wouldn't call me a fill-in-the-blank to my face. While we disagree on politics, I think it would be better for you to encourage people to write their congress person or to support candidates that hold the same opinions as you. Both of those are reasonable and highly commendable. However, calling someone a name will do nothing to convert them to your cause.
Also, what happened to being civil and polite? I know we disagree and I just avoid discussing politics with you. I do that because I know that we have two completely different opinions and that no matter what I say you will not suddenly agree with me. I know that because, most likely, no matter what you say to me I will not change my mind. So, we continue to disagree. However, I know that, in the end, you and I both have the best of intentions and neither of us are inherently bad people and there is room for both of us in this country.
*Besides it hurts my feelings.”
You should write what you said here. It's totally respectful and at the very least if the person continued to behave that way you would know it was probably best to no longer be friends with that person.
ReplyDeleteI agree, you should post it on facebook, it is very well said and deserves to be said with your outside voice.
ReplyDeleteI have felt this way most of my life on many issues with many people. You've said what I think very well. It's one thing to have ideas and opinions (and even facts), but why call people idiots, etc?
ReplyDeleteI'd personally probably try hard not to read those people on my FB if I didn't want to unfriend. But I'd seriously consider what Life-long and Psych Post Doc have said (or send a message?).
I agree - I would post this on Facebook. I don't see anything wrong or objectionable in what you wrote.
ReplyDeleteWhat's with all the non-readable (to me) gibberish?
ReplyDelete(And congrats on making bragging rights!!)
ReplyDeleteI've thought about posting this, but I don't think the people it's directed towards would take it well. There would be some talk about how I'm trying to limit their freedom of speech, etc. But after the 4th of July I'm pretty close to not caring and just posting this!
ReplyDeleteSilver Fox: I seem to have picked up a spam bot of some sort. I may have to start using word verification again.
ReplyDeleteAnd thanks :)
I feel the same way about politics.
ReplyDeleteI tell people:
"Isn't it ignorant to put your trust and faith in one person (ie politicians) of whom you barely know through media outlets? I try to make my impact as individual with my own high morals and standards throughout my community. If we all thought like that, we wouldn't have to rely on power leaders who disappoint us."
...Just sayin'
Facebook is the crap for that kind of overreaction. Say it anyway.
ReplyDelete