Sunday, January 19, 2014

Fight the Good Fight

At one point in every one's life, our eyes were opened to one thing or another. Someone said something that made us think or possibly even changed our mind. What if that person had never said anything? If anyone has taught you anything, made you think or even changed your mind, there's a good chance you can do the same for someone else.

 I've been told I'm too opinionated, that I should just leave well enough alone and there is no use arguing with theists, conspiracy theorists, etc... I firmly believe there is a use, it just may not ever be seen or may not be seen right away. Just opening a discussion in general, starts people thinking. Maybe they find something you said interesting and delve a little deeper on their own. Maybe someone that is not even part of the discussion is listening/reading and you're reaching them without even knowing.

 One thing I've learned is that if you want to be heard, you need to be respectful. Nothing brings out people's defenses and shuts them down faster than being disrespected. Once you start name calling, everything you've said becomes instantly discredited. Being passive aggressive doesn't work either. People can see right through that. Always be genuinely courteous, even if someone starts being disrespectful to you. Keep your composure, as hard as it may be, and remember that they are most likely taking that route, because they have nothing else. They're starting to feel defeated. Again, you never know who you are reaching and somebody reading/listening will most likely take you more seriously and respect what you are saying, if you don't fall into childish behavior.

 Always make sure you can back up what you say. Don't state your opinion as fact and if you state something as fact, be prepared to prove what you say and for the love of all that is good, don't back up your claim with here say.

Finally, realize there is a point when you just need to give up. You can only say so much before you realize that no matter what you say, it is falling on deaf ears. Once you have made your point, realize it is a lost cause and stop wasting your time.

 Never stop fighting the god fight. Never.

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