I hope for a bit of silence

I didn't say that right.

I was falling into what might happen.

I hope for people to start being civil to each other.

People should be able to ask a question,

 within reason,

  and not have it turn into an argument.

We should be able to talk without a debate.

Maybe the bit of silence has an explanation.

Before you respond,

 take a breath.

Count to ten.

Reviews

[Chris Shaw]

Wise words Jon, taking a breath and counting to ten. Unfortunately the downside of the internet is the loss of personal face to face contact, you can't see someone's expression and it can be so easy for words to be misconstrued. Great care needs to be taken to avoid inflammatory situations. Thank you for your words.

Chris

[Jon Roggie]

Sadly, it is not only on the internet.

[barleygirl]

People can't even discuss the nature of our divisive behavior without getting into an argument, huh? Here you've discussed the way this happens, without using a bifurcated blame game, which is why this doesn't feel abrasive at all. We can all own this. It's much less divisive if we all do own it. I've often used your final parting shot when on Facebook . . . I never give my first impulsive response to something stated in an inflammatory way anymore. I love what you're saying here & I love Jacob's response to it (((HUGS))) Fondly, Margie

[Jon Roggie]

I try to look at both sides, and also those sides which start to combine bits from the other. This gets me in trouble on FB. I ask questions. After managing to calm down the other person, we occasionally have a meaningful conversation!

[jacob erin-cilberto]

exactly....we used to have great discussions....but people are so compartmentalized these days...so obscured by technology...the face to face discussions seem almost extinct...we no longer know how to react to one another...so the tempers flare so easily...so much misunderstanding.

j.

[Jon Roggie]

It seems like it always turn into a debate.
I guess I am not the only one to feel this way.

Jon

[Coyote Poetry]

The count to ten. I use often.. better to lead with concern, kindness and listen. Thank you Jon for sharing your amazing words and thoughts.
Coyote

[Jon Roggie]

I feel it also goes back to thinking before you speak. Take a moment, and it might lead to fewer bad feelings.

Thank you.
Jon

[Coyote Poetry]

You are welcome Jon and I agree.