Each morning, I turn on cable news to find out what is going on in the world.  I flip through all the different news channels in an effort to expose myself to more than one point of view.  I try to tune in to each channel for at least 15 minutes so that I have an opportunity to listen to several different personalities.  Some days, those 15 minutes are as unnerving as nails on a chalkboard.  News anchors have turned into political activists.  Political pundits present opinions as facts.  News stories are cherry-picked to support one narrative or the other.  The hearts and minds of the American people are being influenced by a media which has lost its ability to present the facts without the bias.

I have also begun to follow politics on social media.  It is shocking the things people will say to each other.  The constant vitriol that has become the norm in all forms of media is completely out of hand.  We all have the right to exercise free speech but there are times when it is best to exercise restraint. Not everything that crosses our minds needs to pass through our lips.  We have all become so wrapped up in our freedoms that we have forgotten it is necessary to live alongside each other in this world.  Let us make an effort to be civil to one another.

I direct this post  to politicians, media personalities, and those who feel the need to come out swinging at every opposing view.  The next time you have the urge to eviscerate someone on social media or chastise a person who does not share your political opinions — just zip it!  Control your emotions.  Challenge yourself to take the high road.

Try it for a day… or an hour… or a minute.

#justzipit