If you have ever been on or near LSU’s campus, you have most likely heard of the infamous Free Speech Alley in front of the Student Union. 

If you haven’t experienced the chaos, imagine yourself leisurely walking with excitement about the Chic-fil-A you’re about to indulge in. The pep in your step comes to a halt when you see twenty people coming at you with little sheets of paper. They fail to lure you in with their sad, desperate puppy-dog eyes. And if they really feel like testing your sanity, they’ll attempt to bribe you with candy or other treats.

They shout out statistics about whatever they’re trying to promote or ask you questions like, “So how do you feel about abortion?” trying to advocate their pro-life club. I think LSU's all-time favorite is the man who stands up on his rickety chair screaming at the student body about how we’re all going to hell. It’s a great pick-me-up on the way to class.

For some reason, people associate free speech with being aggressive and acting like a fool to promote their club, faith or whatever it may be. Yelling out facts and shoving papers in people's faces will do the exact opposite of what you intend.

Why must we abuse our right to free speech? No one is going to listen to you when you act obnoxious or throw a fit when someone doesn’t stop at your table. If you’re really passionate about what you’re advocating, you won’t have to scream at people to get your message across.

I know this a crazy, unthinkable idea, but I say we should all chill out if we have to work a shift in Free Speech Alley. Instead of creating a hostile environment for everyone around us, just be nice. It's not that hard people.

And for the love of God, if you see someone obviously trying to avoid the madness, do not run after them.