Random Little Thoughts About the Election

Kindness and empathy aren’t overrated.

They’re underused.

I spent the last week wondering what, if anything, I wanted to say about the election. For the most part, I’m not political on social media because I think who we choose to vote for is a personal decision, not one that is required to be shared or subjected to debate or ridicule. I’ve also vowed that posts on this blog wouldn’t be political because I want this to be a happy, neutral space. But, just this once, I will make an exception and (kind of) talk about politics. I have a few thoughts and hope you won’t be offended. Maybe you will agree with me, and perhaps you won’t. Either way, that’s fine. We’re all entitled to our own opinions.

Anyway…

I treasure my social media friends. Actually, I treasure ALL my friends—regardless of whether they are Democrats, Republicans, Independents, or supporters of the Undecided Cow Party. I’m picky about who I let into my life, but if you are my friend, know that I choose carefully and genuinely care about YOU. I don’t care who you voted for or which politicians you like or dislike. As I said, I believe our political choices are personal choices.

If you deeply admire a certain politician and want to share your positive thoughts on their contributions, past and future, great. If sharing thoughtful commentary or positive, well-informed information on social media brings you joy, then post away.

On the other hand, you feel like spewing negativity and hatred toward politicians you don’t like, or the people who support them understand that it can be…hmmmmm, what are the words I’m looking for? Abrasive, ire-producing, and annoying, to name a few.

Hateful posts are the social media equivalent of sticking bamboo under the fingernails of anyone who has a different opinion than you. I can’t come up with any logical reason for trying to make people feel bad for their own views and choices. And honestly, if all your friends agree with you politically (which is boring if you think about it), then what is the point of posting things like that since you’re already on the same page?

I’m good at scrolling past the rants, but sometimes, the things I read—the criticism, insults, nastiness, and ridicule just because someone disagreed with someone else politically—make me sad. Yes, I have a sensitive soul, but even if you’re not an overly sensitive sap like me, remember, who among us wants to feel bad, and why exactly are you putting that negativity out there?

Facebook posts about social outings, travel, animals, humor, and kind deeds are treasures. I love to see what countries you visit and the foods you eat. My favorite is the pictures of your children and grandchildren’s sweet little faces. I love seeing photos of stuff that reeks of good vibes and the things we all have in common. I love the positivity those posts bring and the reminder that we are all similar in so many ways - even if we voted for different candidates. On the political front, positive posts (and I know everyone’s idea of what’s positive might differ) are interesting and refreshing.

At the same time, the political sh*t being flung around social media feels dark, heavy, and divisive - even to people who may have voted the same as you. Saying nasty crap about an opposing political party is one thing, but going after their supporters - some of whom supported wholeheartedly and some who may have held their noses and voted for who they believed was the less awful choice - is a complete turn-off.

I have plenty of opinions in this blog, but I try mightily to avoid any implication that those who disagree with me are stupid or evil because I certainly don’t feel that way. I respect everyone’s opinions, thoughts, and feelings. I enjoy factual discussions and respectful debates but dislike frothing, hateful monologues.

I’ll bet most of your Facebook friends are pretty evenly divided politically. Mine are, and I like that. If you choose to vilify half of your friends, perhaps you should be reminded to show some empathy. The great thing about empathy is that it’s easy to give, puts good vibes into the world, and almost always makes people feel good. Maybe think twice before you hit the send button, find a group of like-minded people you can have discussions with, have friendly social media debates minus the name-calling, and shake off that need to add a thinly veiled insult to someone’s post.

Some of us celebrated this election, and some were upset and angry. Neither is right or wrong because we are all entitled to our feelings. But maybe try to show understanding to your friends who fear their future, whose vote was based on needs or criteria different from yours, or who are mourning because they wish the country would move in a different direction. You can support your candidate and your beliefs AND be kinder and gentler to others.

Like seriously, it can be done.

Be nice. Life is beautiful but oh-so-short.