Far too often, we encounter bouts of negativity in our everyday lives. We constantly hear people comment on how negative the media is, people's conversations are, and we are as a society. We can't seem to just go on about our lives, be triumphant in our accomplishments and be supportive of others. It seems that we are always looking for a reason to be angry. No, I'm not about to lecture you on how "everyone's gone soft" and "we are a society of wussies." No, I'm not at all worried about that. What I'm concerned with is people feeling like they have a right to just bash everything that they don't like in the world.
I am so tired of seeing people use their social media platforms and other communication methods to down others and feel self-righteous. I'm tired of seeing people use an "opinion piece" to explain why someone or something is all that is wrong with this world and that by not supporting it they are righteous, virtuous, and "better." Yes, there are some things that are just downright senseless and universally understood as immoral such as murder, but just because you don't enjoy something that someone else does, doesn't make you a better person.
For example, I don't like video games. I think the idea of sitting on my behind earning virtual medals and whatnot is silly. However, I find it to be a waste of my time to write an entire article about how I don't play them and why you shouldn't either. I could tell you about all the times I attempted to play COD with my brother, but I know you don't care. It's pointless for me to do that because it doesn't matter. Just because I don't like video games and think some of them are immoral in nature doesn't mean that I don't think you should play them. I don't feel like I'm better than you if you play COD on the reg. I like snapchat filters, you like shooting virtual people. Cool. Have a grand time.
"Opinion writing" has morphed into this self-righteous bashing of others that doesn't do anything for the betterment of society. Honestly, opinion writing shouldn't even be considered journalistic material because just as any journalism professor or professional will tell you, your opinion does not matter. Sorry, but no one cares what you think unless you are a politician who will act upon your opinion to affect the general population. Trying to angrily bash something in order to discourage others from enjoying it is immature, senseless, and a waste of time.
If you really want to change something, present some facts. Talk about other people's experiences. Stay humble. Remain objective. People are more intelligent than you may realize, and they are capable of making decisions on their own.
