How are you perceived?

I had a conversation this weekend with a friend of nearly 20 years about current events and social media.  Jim is one of the most kind, intelligent and thoughtful people that I know.  We haven't had the good fortune of seeing each other since I moved away from Southern California 11 years ago but have remained in close contact. 

Over the last few months some of Jim's posts were less than civil and I pointed it out to him during our conversation.  He noted his anger at the media and the fact that was leading to his outbursts.  I get it, the amount of volume that we receive from all sides of any issue is maddening.   I know that I struggle with this as well and have considered staying away from social media but I am not willing to sacrifice the contact that it provides with friends like Jim that I still like to hear from but don't get to spend much time with.  I have lived throughout the US as I have relocated numerous times for business and made many great friends.  Social Media has allowed me to improve communications with them and allowed all of us to maintain valuable relationships. 

Andrea and I went to Church on Sunday for the first time since the  Covid19 shutdowns and enjoyed seeing our Church Family.  Things were different with social distancing but the sense of community and the mutual respect are still strong.  While listening to the message I was reminded of a Bible Verse (Romans 12:18) that is one of my favorites.  "If it is possible, as much depends on you, live peaceably with all men." 

I spent a considerable amount of time considering this on Sunday.  Does this mean that we all have do agree?  No, it does not.  Does it mean that by living peacefully that we will always be treated fairly?  No!  I believe, what it tells us, is that there will be issues, there will be conflict, there will be trials.  Those are all facts of life and noted throughout the Bible as well.  We are being instructed to confront those challenges in a peaceful and loving way.  We can't do that through arguments, memes, attacks, etc.  I have long had a personal rule of conduct on social media.  If I would not say it at a dinner table, I should not post it online.  Hopefully I do a better job moving ahead. 

Finally, we have more than enough things to create divisions in our country today.  We will encounter numerous people or other outlets that will drive our anger.  Use the block feature in whatever app you are using.  Don't allow negative thoughts to enter your timeline or your mind.  Invest time in things that will enrich your life and the lives of others.