We’ve become a generation of advancements that were once unimaginable. From smart phones to tablets to medical technology, we really have surpassed the limit. But, does it mean a thing if we can’t get along? It seems that every day we wake up with more horrific news. Now, don’t get me wrong here, for as long as there has been history, the world has had issues. So what is the difference now? Social media, better broadcasting, and more confrontational people. In this day and age, if Taylor Swift is seen on a tropical getaway with a new boyfriend, it’s on your Twitter feed, it’s trending on Facebook, and it's on the 5 o’clock news for entertainment.
Today, we have the ability to share our opinions on every social platform, and Joe from New York hears about the news in California just by clicking an app. Joking around about Taylor Swift’s love life is a lighthearted example of how social media is everywhere, but on a more serious note, the news includes politics, criminal danger, American rights, and the list goes on. We have the past to fix our mistakes, but it doesn’t seem like our country can pull together to do it. With all this social media being readily available at anytime, so are people’s opinions. It’s scary to have an opinion in today’s world. You never know who you are going to anger, if our opinion is even right because those around you think different, and you fear losing friends and family because they may have different beliefs.
I want to end the belief that sharing your opinion is a threat to your life. We are a free country, yes? Why should I fear sharing my political beliefs? Just because we are a free country, does not mean you have the right to antagonize someone for how they feel. Different opinions become conversation, it’s diversity at work. Have you ever heard of opposites attract? You never know where sharing your beliefs could positively take you. If you haven’t heard this very important lesson before, write it down -- agree to disagree. It’s okay if the person next to you likes the color orange but you like the color yellow; agree to disagree on having the same favorite colors. No matter the issue, the lesson is the same. Whether you are black lives matter, blue lives matter, or all lives matter you have a right to your opinion. Whether you are lesbian, bisexual, transgender, straight, etc., you have a right to be what you want and support what you want. Whether you are Clinton or Trump, you have a right to your vote. We may look different and think different, but we are all human beings that deserve respect and that is a fact.
