If you think someone might be an idiot, do your research, track down the sources, put it all together, and prove him or her wrong. Sometimes you can't. Sometimes they're right. Just because you didn't think of it or don't agree doesn't make that person an idiot.
If you don't agree with a pundit, politician, or spokesperson, that's fine, but don't paint everyone with the same brush. That's neither fair nor mature.
I am sick TO DEATH of hearing the same thoughts parroted over and over again. You don't have to agree with everything the Popular Kids think--that's why you have a brain. Don't parrot; think, research, listen, and then say something if you must.
I'm tired of anyone who isn't an official spokesperson of my church making public statements about my church. That means ANYONE: columnist, pundit, politician, friend, author. Knock it off. This is why there are still so many misconceptions about my faith, and this is why I've stopped reading certain blogs/zines (*cough*Segullah*cough*).
Why doesn't anyone remember the rules anymore? Remember how it used to be considered impolite to discuss politics or religion with people you may not know well? Sometimes I curse the internet for the false sense of intimacy and the easiness of anonymity.
Remember who you are. Remember what you believe. Remember that IT'S OK to speak up for those things in this country. Allow others the same rights you demand from them, and exercise your right to walk away or change the channel or, even, take a break from your social networking.
And, sometimes, it's better to keep your mouth shut and your fingers still and not ruin friendships.
