Calling for Respect in a Nation That Should Know Better
Let’s be honest: social media and other platforms have turned into a bit of a mess. Instead of being spaces where people connect, share ideas, and celebrate what’s good, too often they become battlegrounds full of insults, name-calling, and anger—especially when it comes to politics. It’s like we’ve forgotten that behind every screen is a real person with real feelings.
How Did It Get This Bad?
It didn’t happen overnight. At first, the internet seemed like a great way to share news, opinions, and even jokes. But as time went on, it got easier to say anything we wanted—without thinking about the impact. With a few clicks, a single angry post can spread like wildfire, and before you know it, people are trading blows with words instead of talking things through.
The Problem with Political Vitriol and Hatred
When it comes to politics, the ugliness seems to double. People use harsh language, twist facts, and attack anyone who disagrees. It’s not just about sharing different points of view anymore; it’s about winning at all costs, even if that means tearing each other down. This isn’t just unhealthy for our country—it’s downright shameful, especially for a nation that often talks about being guided by faith or values.
· Calling names and spreading lies online doesn’t make anyone right—it just makes the conversation meaner.
· Gossip, slander, and hateful posts divide families, friends, and entire communities.
· Even people who mean well can get pulled into the negativity, making it harder to fix the problems we actually face.
“In God We Trust”—But Do We?
Here’s the thing: many people in this country claim to stand for what’s right, to honor God, and to hold themselves to a higher standard. But if we’re using God’s name while spreading hate, we’re missing the point entirely. The Bible and other faith traditions teach about kindness, respect, and treating others as we want to be treated. If our posts and comments don’t match up with those values, what does that say about us as a nation?
It’s not just about religion, either. It’s about basic decency—about remembering that words can hurt, and that we don’t have to agree on everything to still treat each other with respect.
What Can We Do?
Nobody’s perfect. We all mess up, especially when we’re upset or passionate about something. But that doesn’t mean we can’t do better. Here are some simple ways to clean up the mess:
· Think before you post: Would you say the same thing face-to-face?
· Disagree without disrespect: It’s okay to have strong opinions, but it’s not okay to attack people for theirs.
· Spread kindness, not rumors: If you wouldn’t want it said about you, don’t share it about someone else.
· Remember your values: If you claim to stand for faith, justice, or respect, let your words reflect that—even online.
Let’s Raise the Bar
In the end, the internet is just a tool—it can build up or tear down, depending on how we use it. If we want our communities and our nation to get stronger, it starts with us. Let’s be the ones who choose honesty, kindness, and respect, even when (especially when) it’s hard.
We all have the power to change the conversation. Let’s make our words count, and show the world—and ourselves—that we’re better than the cesspool of hate we see too often online. If we truly believe in higher values, let’s live them out, one post at a time.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 