The last 24 hours in the news has consisted of violence due to differing views on politics. This really is nothing new here or all over the world. After all, this is one of the reasons why people are not getting along, anywhere!

                                              Violence Thru the Decades

Being born in the mid 60’s, I have seen political violence growing up. Whether it be protests of anti-war advocates which turned destructive, or riots involving abuses from both police and protestors, violence and politics go hand in hand. In some form or another, politics contributed to the assassinations of Martin Luther King, John and Robert Kennedy and even Malcolm X.

Differing views brings on heated discussions and many times more serious outcomes. Yesterday was just one more example of how people won’t respect others opinions. Now in my opinion, this individual also had some serious mental issues. Unfortunately, that combined with radical political views, can spell disaster.

                                            Keep Political Views Private

I practice this everyday. Especially, in the workplace. We are advised to not discuss certain topics through mandatory training modules . Most people adhere to it, others don’t. The best way to avoid drama is just not to create any. Sometimes, we just need to get over the fact that, not all of us agree on the same thing. It’s how you react that causes the problems.

It’s sad to say, there are those among us who can’t handle differing views from theirs. The events of Arlington clarify that. Yes, we live in a country of free speech and opinions. But now we have seen, that some don’t believe that to be the case.

                                          Violence in Politics and Social Media

It’s obvious by now the effect social media like Facebook and Twitter, have on politics and people. If you are on one form of it or another, you’re constantly exposed to the vile language and comments spewed by the public on occasion. Most of us just consider the sources and move on. Others do not and thus we have the problems today. Politicians on all sides have not helped either. Toning down the talk, should come from them first. When they continue to keep it going, the public will also.

                                                    So What Can We Do About It

There is a comment I’ve heard the last 24 hours on talk radio. Maybe now it’s time to change the rhetoric. We can all set examples. If you choose to discuss politics, respect others views. This isn’t the first time I’ve mentioned this one. Open mindedness seems to have gone by the wayside, for so many who speak about others narrow minds. How about just don’t discuss it? I know, slight chance of that, but once again, don’t expect everyone to agree with your politics.

I’ll end with this. Many people seem to be amazed at how nutty others are behaving since the election. I for one, am not totally shocked. This is where we are today. It is sad, but it is a fact. Luckily, for me and others, I’m not a violent person. Opinionated yes, but only at certain times and in limited places. And this won’t be over in 4 years. It’ll probably continue, because this is the direction we’ve headed in for a long time. It’s all a matter of how we are going to handle it the rest of the journey!