I grew up asking my parents who they were voting for every election, as most kids do once they understand the concept; and every time, my parents would tell me that that's something you don't need to broadcast to others.
Well, it's very clear social media laughed at that concept and turned it upside down. Just by looking at our social media feeds, we can tell who most people are voting for this November. It's become our nature to share something if we agree with it, and occasionally comment if we don't. For some of our younger friends, it's the first presidential election that they are eligible to vote in. For others, it's round two, three, four, or five.
But for all of us - whether you've voted once, twice, or for decades - this is a damn dirty election; and a scary one, too.
It's no secret that our country needs some work. We're attempting to pick up our messes while simultaneously creating new ones. It's also no secret that we as voters are really just choosing between the lesser of two evils. This election has taken the concern for our country to a new level. Frankly, it has busted through my faith in the people of the United States.
Like most of us, I find myself on Facebook with my thumb doing the repetitive scrolling motion as my brain turns to mush after a long day - or on my lunch break. Facebook, and social media as a whole, have done a lot to change politics and, ultimately, elections. Articles are plastered all over our feeds, some fact-based and some opinion-based. Opinions flood in with hashtags and memes. Debates between users arise.
And it. gets. ugly.
** Screenshots have been edited to remove names and pictures**
Going to the comment section of almost any post is cringe-worthy. For every comment full of valid rebuttals and factual information, there are two full of direct insults, immaturity, and blatant lack of respect due to the simple fact that not everyone agrees on everything. People of all ages throwing the "r-word" around like a hot potato, commenters making personal jabs at those whose beliefs don't align with their own.
I'll give you a hint, folks: Just because someone disagrees with you, doesn't necessarily mean either of you are wrong.
Of course we have our first amendment rights (the first excuse we commonly hear). I respect that as well as I find it interesting to see the mature discussions and the points that arise; don't get me wrong, I myself have learned new things through getting involved in political discussions with others. But the line between a discussion and being a belligerent bully is so bold - how do people keep crossing it?
Our candidates aren't the only ones showing signs of a scary future for our country.
This election is destroying my faith in humanity. By seeing people become so cruel and ugly towards others, our future becomes more questionable. Such ugliness, believe it or not, isn't going to change who sits in the oval office for the next four years. Calling someone names because they disagree with you won't make them agree with you. None of this will make a difference.
You know what will? Voting.
Before you tell me to stop getting offended by everything, before you try to return fire, consider this: It isn't the words that are worrisome; but simply that we are as much of a part of the future of this country as any president - so let's get it together, shall we?
