I titled this Flipside “Brace Yourself,” as we head into the next three months of political upheaval.
As I look at social media, I see the literal flipsides of people that are sometimes disheartening and sometimes encouraging.
I see vitriolic posts from good people that are reposts from websites, mostly political ones, that are meant to persuade friends to a like viewpoint but instead cause arguments that lead to “blocks and unfollows.” In person, these are honest, hardworking citizens who volunteer in the community, have families they love and ill loved ones for whom they care. The blocked and unfollowed friends are now blocked from seeing that new birth, family illness or beautiful vacation that was the intrigue of having social media in the first place. Don’t let the momentary desire to voice opinion or perpetuate unkindness override the positive opportunities.
On the flipside, I see appeals from posters to be careful of social media. A wise poster gave this guidance:
- Post wisely over the next months
- Contribute to discourse not division
- Check your facts
- Resist memes and cheap digs
- Create beautiful content
- We can transcend the bitterness and be better, even when we disagree
Let’s remember, a unifying community is one that brings people together, regardless of their differences, and fosters a sense of belonging, support and cooperation among its members. It is a community where individuals come together to work toward common goals, share resources and celebrate diversity, promoting inclusivity, empathy and understanding which creates a strong bond among its members.
Reconciliation of people with divergent beliefs is challenging but essential and involves actively seeking to bridge divides, rather than perpetuating them. Through compassionate communication, active listening and a willingness to find shared values, reconciliation can help to heal divisions and promote unity among people with divergent beliefs.
There is a flipside to every story and I might tell it! Send a topic to susan@knoxtntoday.com
