If you were anywhere near social media yesterday, you probably watched the video of Ellen DeGeneres sharing about her experience of sitting next to former President George Bush during a football game. She talked about how they are friends despite their opposing views on various topics. It was a reminder of how our society has suddenly flipped the switch on the basics. You know, simply being nice to other people. Remembering that we are all in this shit show together. Jesus,when did everyone get so prickly?

Do you give out a questionnaire to prospective friends to see if they align with your beliefs? I didn’t think so. Fun fact, I have friends who don’t have the same views as me. (Gasp) I am married to someone who has different opinions on a wide-range of topics. Guess what? It makes life more interesting. It doesn’t make me love them any less. And, I don’t resort to name calling like a three year old. (Okay, sometimes I do but that’s only when my spouse can’t locate shit that is right in front of him? Totally different.)

The solution is simple, we all need to stop being assholes. Seriously, just be nice to one another. It isn’t hard. It doesn’t require passive-aggressive social media posts. It doesn’t require personal attacks on one’s character, if you don’t agree with someone else’s view. My other suggestion would be to stop commenting on posts that aren’t in alignment with your beliefs. So simple. It may surprise you, but you won’t be changing anyone’s mind with a Facebook rant. Staying in my own lane. Focusing on my own shit instead of pissing on someone else’s lawn. Harsh visual, right? Well, I wanted to make sure you were still paying attention. I can guarantee someone reading this will be offended. They will tell me that being “kind” isn’t going to help what’s going on in the world. They will think that I am being naive. Color me surprised.

Do you want to know what we all have in common? We are human beings. Just regular people trying to live a quality life. Sometimes I feel like I am attending nursery school without the supervision, nap time, or snacks. It’s chaotic. It’s frustrating. But, most of all, it is terribly depressing.

Be nice. Don’t comment on posts you don’t agree with and if you do, don’t insult people in the process. Everyone is allowed to have their own beliefs. Respect that novelty.