Can’t We All Just Get Along on Social Media?

Wow. As a nation, we have changed a lot over the past couple of weeks.

I feel compelled to write this after seeing all of the ridicule and hate coming from my Facebook feed and other places on social media about some news stories that have broken recently.

My question is, why?

It is great to be passionate about issues, and that is one of the many things that makes us great as a nation, but why all of the mean and nasty aggression online from all sides?

Why do things have to get nasty? Why can't we respect the fact that there are two sides to every story and not ridicule someone just because they have a different point of view?

Do I agree with all policies that our government puts forth? No. At the same time I don’t see the need to post my feelings regarding every ruling or bill that goes through the House and Senate or that is ruled on by the Supreme Court of the United States?

In the same way, I am Catholic, but I don’t always agree with what the church says. But in general, I have never left Mass in a bad mood.

I can agree with making same-sex marriage legal in all 50 states and at the same time, I don't have to change my profile picture to say it.

I can sit here and think the stars and bars flag is an antiquated symbol from 150 years ago, but at the same time, think it is a knee-jerk reaction to delete it from merchandise.

As a registered Democrat, I also think I should be able to question Obamacare and question whether it is the right approach.

Those who know me personally know where I stand on most issues, and that is not to say that I won’t post about how I feel on occasion, but it seems there is a social war going on to a degree and that is something I don't want to be a part of.

There is more than one side to an issue, and there are about as many opinions as there are people.

One more thing. When it comes to news online, if you don’t recognize the site that published a story, chances are that the story is made up of half truths or even flat-out lies. Even reputable news sources can sometimes run erroneous items.

Have a great 4th of July.