We are one body. One land and one nation. Sure we might have divided opinions on certain topics, but that's what makes us who we are. The United States is the Land of the Free. That means we are free to be ourselves without persecution.

Persecution and judgement are not the same thing, however, which is something that can be misinterpreted. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and can express concern to another who has opposing views or behaves in a manner that one may view as dangerous. But questioning does NOT include physical violence and/or killing another.

Murder is essentially persecution. Sure you can be angry with someone for wronging you, but to end their life and the lives of their friends/family is extreme. One should not involve others in their issues without relevance.

If you're someone who is prone to violent outbursts, or know someone who is, know that there are much healthier ways to resolve a conflict without practicing bad behaviors. It's okay if you need to isolate yourself and try to calm down.

Before even starting conflict, one should think before speaking and opt to keep certain thoughts and opinions to themselves. Once a conflict is created, then start practicing resolution methods. These can sometimes be confusing, so here's some suggestions for anyone who may be confused as to where to begin.

First, give yourselves breathing room then calmly talk to one another using “I” messages and listening to one another without chiming in more opinions. It might be helpful to have a neutral third party mediate the situation. If you can't come up with a solution, at least agree to disagree.

If talking doesn't help, or it makes matters worse, than let the issue be and just try to go one with your lives as best you can. Sure it's uncomfortable, but it's a lot more comfortable than holding a grudge and hurting yourself emotionally.

Take it from someone who for the longest time held on to past frustrations to the point I was mentally drained. It's a lot easier moving forward to treat others the way you want to be treated and keep your distance from those who bring you down.