Recently, I posted an article about how to learn yoga and was personally attacked for suggesting that videos and books are an option. I agree they aren’t the best option. The ideal way to learn yoga is from a certified yoga instructor in person. Still, I’ll get comments asking me why an instructor needs to be certified if they’ve been teaching for over a decade and are adequately trained. It seems like someone is always picking a fight.
Differences of opinion are normal.
I also posted about the medical benefits of CBD oil, and someone started trying to argue about all the different manufacturing processes and which company is superior. It seems everyone in America has strong opinions and feels it is necessary always to share those opinions with others. I’ve traveled to over 33 countries and found that the need to argue every little point is, for the most part, an American phenomenon. Yes, people share differences of opinion worldwide, but generally in a much kinder manner. So, what is up with America’s obsession with arguing?
Why Do We Argue?
Buddha said that before we speak, we should consider if the words are true, kind, and necessary. These are wise words we all should follow but generally don’t. Why not? Why do we feel it necessary to argue?
Dr. Phil often says, “Do you want to be right, or do you want to be happy?” I think most Americans feel like they need to be right so that they can feed their ego. Secretly, they feel inferior to others, and proving they’re right makes them feel important. It’s an empty conquest, and it won’t make you happy. True happiness is found within, not in your external environment.
Social Media Has Intensified the Problem
Some people enjoy arguing.
Some people enjoy arguing, and social media has exacerbated the problem. It’s now easier than ever to stir the pot and start spewing forth conflict and hostility without looking the other person in the eyes. People can twist the truth, spin their words, or even call each other names without a second thought. It’s making our country ugly. It’s dividing us instead of bringing us together. What happened to our manners? Where is the love and compassion?
What is the Solution?
Love is the answer.
Before you respond to a social media post or tell someone they are wrong, ask yourself about your motivation and the potential outcome. Are you trying to feed your ego or share helpful information? If you intend to contribute and share information, approach it with curiosity and an open mind instead of stubbornness and bias. Also, ask yourself if debating the issue is best for your time and energy. Will you change someone’s mind? Is a Republican going to become a Democrat because of your rant? I seriously doubt it, so why argue the point at all?
I see comments every day like “people are idiots.” I, too, see ignorant posts by uneducated people, but I snooze them or stop following them. Then, I scroll on to something more positive. I choose not to focus on the negativity and hostility. The way you react in any situation is your choice. You can either become part of the problem, part of the solution or do nothing at all. I choose peace. Will you?