Posting points with no point

      I am on social media quite a bit for a variety of reasons.  One of the reasons I started this blog was to avoid the daily arguments I see amongst many of my friends and those people who are connected to me for no more reason than belonging to a common site group.  Here's the thing I've found so far....

      Everyone, and I mean everyone, has an opinion about everything (or so it seems).  That, in itself, isn't surprising.  That so many feel the inherent need to post it all the time is what floors me.  My great aunt in Texas said it pretty plainly.  People will say things on social media now that they wouldn't have stepped out on their front porch to scream to the neighbors 20 years ago.  The virtual world has removed the filters of common sense, propriety and decency.  No one said that a person isn't entitled to an opinion, but the question is whether everyone else needs to be subjected to it.  

     It isn't to say that some of what is being said isn't worth being said, but I question the use of a format that gives me your opinion in the same breath as it offers me ads for ED medication and pre-made meals shipped straight to my home.  For all intents and purposes, we have commercialized the concept of communication.  Like a post, reTweet, whatever......but I see it like this.  If you post something controversial, your friends will like (or not comment) and your haters (so to speak) will argue against it.  So what's the point of putting it out there if not to stir the pot.  Like-minded individuals already feel the way you do and don't need convincing.  Those opposed aren't going to be swayed by what usually amounts to hateful rhetoric and finger-pointing.  Those on the fence, won't be impressed either way by the follow up commentary (and I use that word lightly) that follows the initial starter thread or post.  

     I'm dating myself a little, but this post sort of started as I was listening to some music from my youth and came across Anne Murray's "A little good news."  We don't hear enough positive as it is and yet everyone feels the need to express whatever is pissing them off.  The combination of instantaneous gratification via virtual media and the lack of any cool-down time to consider whether posting is really necessary or wise has led to some of the most ridiculous and hateful interactions I've ever seen.  I do not think I have a single friend that would actually engage in this type of behavior and argumentation in real life unless a great deal of alcohol was involved....and even then....?

     When you have that urge to make a point, consider who you're making it to.  Does it tip the scales for any good reason?  What can you possibly achieve by sharing your anger or misery over something that cannot be controlled by mere postings and tweets?  If you want to stir the pot, try actually getting involved in whatever cause centers around the issue your upset about, or.....simply.....make some gumbo  or good old chicken noodle soup.  At least your stirring there makes a difference.  I've seen too many friends suddenly "unfriend" each other because of disagreements on social media that really had no bearing in their everyday lives and interactions.  Agree to disagree and remember that silence is golden (but duct tape is silver).  I won't use my dad's phrase on this one, but I will repeat another I've heard before....put up or shut up.  Or, to quote Elvis....."a little less conversation, a little more action, please...."