The 2016 presidential election has been one of the strangest and terrifying presidential elections that has ever taken place in U.S. history. The election has caused uproar, violence, and conflict across the nation, making us more divided than ever. Despite who you voted for, it does not dismiss you from the responsibility of treating others with respect, and displaying leadership. Perhaps the biggest reason why there is so much tension among individuals is because of how quickly one jumps to post their latest thoughts to social media.
Social platforms are a great way to stay connected and up-to-date with people we care about. However, there are far too many people who over-share personal information that should be kept in private. Political views are one of these topics. Whether you're a Democrat or a Republican, politics are a highly controversial subject and you're likely to offend someone with your opinion, so just keep it to yourself.
Recently, the amount of election talk on Facebook has been astonishing. It's been disheartening to see the amount of hate coming from my friends on Facebook. Friends removing each other if they support Trump, and vise versa.
"If you're a Trump supporter, then unfriend me because you're racist, against women, etc."
"If you're a Hillary supporter, then you are just as crooked as she is."
But why? At a time when it is so important to be united, we are ruining friendships, relationships, and bashing each other based on who is 'right' and who is 'wrong.'
When it comes to politics, the famous phrase "ignorance is bliss," does not apply. Get educated. Stay humble. People are easily persuaded off the first fancily-written post they see on Facebook or Twitter, regardless of its accuracy. People are so quick to comment and start conflict against one's views, rather than taking the time to ask why they feel the way they do about a chosen candidate. Successful conflict management comes into light when you can respectfully value another person's opinion without argumentativeness and hostility.
As an avid news reader and intelligent college student, I do not feel the need to project my views onto those around me, especially on social media. Posting your political perspectives onto social media does more harm than good. Our president does not teach us how to love, how to be kind, how to use your manners, or how to be a role model. That is all us. Stop spreading the hate and negativity, and continue looking for the good in others.
