We live in a polarizing world where everyone seems to be an expert on everything, and we can thank the creation of social media for that.
People have opinions on every topic under the sun, but what is different these days is that those opinions get portrayed as fact by those that have them. And God forbid someone have a differing opinion because then it turns into toddler activity where name calling and hateful words come out.
At this point, there are options and opportunities on how to react. Some people will pile on and question said individual’s political party. Some people will add to the insults. And others will laugh and move on.
That last part is easier said than done, but let’s face it – it’s the safest option.
Life is stressful, that much is true. And even before March 2020 when this pandemic changed our lives and flipped them upside down. It just seems that with social media being a prominent part of everyday life that many folks worry about things that are out of their control or that even have any bearing on their lives.
Why is this happening?
Like the popular Bobby McFerrin song once said, “don’t worry, be happy.”
Life is too short to have so much pent-up anger over petty things, you know? I mean, it’s alright to be angry, but maybe put that energy into tackling racism, pedophilia, sexism, violence, cyber bullying, human trafficking, things like that.
We have a saying in our house that says it’s all about choices and priorities. If someone wants to belittle someone else or have an opinion that doesn’t match yours, hey, that’s life. Move on.
And I get it. Everyday stresses happen. We worry about our children, our jobs, our health, our bills, and our future. It’s because we care about the one life we have and want it to be the best life we can possibly make it.
There is a Tim McGraw song, “Live Like You Were Dying,” that really hits home for someone like me.
“And I loved deeper, and I spoke sweeter, and I gave forgiveness I’d been denying. And he said, ‘Someday I hope you get the chance to live like you were dying.’”
Make this life your best and live each day to the fullest.
— Matt Mackinder