Commo Karma

We all know that in this world of instant communications with texting, facebook, instagram, twitter, snapchat, and etc., communications has been revolutionized. This has its good and bad points, like most things. Unfortunately, the ability to instantly post one's thoughts about pretty much anything to the world at large can be as much dangerous as helpful. While we can now speak with people around the world at any time, opening up the possibility of a new era of understanding, we can also argue with and anger complete strangers at the drop of a hat.

Once upon a time, when upset about Linda daring to look at her

boyfriend, or whatever, Sue had to go all the way home, get access to a phone that is actually shared and tethered by a cord to a wall, and then, one by one, call her friends to start the grapevine. This would at least give Sue some time to gain perspective before going off "half-cocked" and possibly opening up a can of worms that should have stayed closed. Now, Sue can immediately blast her invective to FaceBook, her address book, twitter, and potentially hundreds of other places - thus accessing thousands, or even hundreds of thousands, of people instantly. There is no time for reflection and no thought of consequences at the spur of the moment. This causes much heartache both for Sue and others. We need a minute to think before we act.

If you wonder about this... just open FaceBook and read down the home page. Yes, there are a lot of nice posts and good wishes... There is also a plethora of people spewing invective about things of which they have no true knowledge. It's extremely negative overall.

Also, it is very east to misinterpret a text or a post as to the intent of the person who sent or posted it when we can't see the persons facial expressions, body language, or hear the tone of their voice. Many fights have been started because Kevin commented, all in fun, on Tom's post. Tom, unaware that Kevin was just kidding, blasts back... The war is on. This happens all the time. Friendships end and feuds begin that last for ages over silly misunderstandings.

I guess what I'm saying is... Think before you text/post. Take a moment to breathe. Also, before you take offense at what someone sent, ask them about it. Don't just assume the worst possible interpretation. Let's use the ability to speak to people around the world to promote understanding and peace, rather than division and hate.