Argue. It's an action we tend to stay away from. An action that has quite the negative connotation. We are taught not to argue with others, to keep the peace. "Don't talk back!" "If you have nothing nice to say, don't say anything at all."

But if it weren't for arguments, we would still believe the earth is flat and the center of the solar system. If Thomas Jefferson didn't argue that humans are born with inalienable rights, our Declaration of Independence would have greatly differed from what it is today. The very action we abscond from is one of the most powerful ways to influence others and better our world. I enjoy tackling difficult, touchy topics but I have not met many that share my interest.

Unfortunately, argumentative has become synonymous with disrespectful, and everyone is scared of being "disrespectful". We live in a time where we fear stepping on someone's toes. We fear being unliked and, ergo, avoid saying what is truly on our minds. I (as has everyone else one time or another) am guilty of agreeing with someone because it's easier

"Ya, you look good in lime green!"

"I agree. Crocs are coming back in style."

"Oh, ya, you're right. Pink Floyd sucks."

See? You just went from a simple lie to dissing your favorite band.

It escalates.

This is a habit we all have to stop. We have to stop agreeing for the sole purpose of being more likable because when we do, we lose our voice in the process.

We do not avoid arguing because we agree with everything. We don't. It's impossible. We have different ideas, different upbringings and the combination of the two provide every individual with unique opinions on topics such as abortion, death penalty, politics, religions...etc. These topics, however, are "off limits." And because we have made certain topics "off limits", we don't allow ourselves to have open conversation with others. We filter not only our words but our views, our passions, our morals, our backgrounds. Arguing is the door to self-realization. When someone argues, it is evident they are passionate. Whether people agree or disagree is insignificant. Finding followers is not the objective. It is not about having the louder voice or scaring others into agreement. The objective of arguing is to fully and openly express your honest opinion. And once we live in a world where arguing is deemed as the positive action it truly is, will we live in the most innovative and expressive generation known to mankind.