by Kristen Shlakman
Well, we have done it. Our society has finally become so overtaken by social media that we now use it for our primary form of communication.
Knowing what everyone is thinking and doing at all times has become an addiction, and a necessity, to survive our daily routines.
While I am fully aware that I am no exception to this phenomenon, after last night, I wish I wasn’t.
The amount of hate-filled, uneducated rants about the election results have gotten so out of control that I am ready to cancel all outlets of social media.
If I see another status or tweet talking about how, “we are screwed” or that America is soon going to turn into a socialist society, or anything else completely ridiculous related to that, I might lose it.
Since when does complaining about something over the internet make any difference what so ever?
I have to say, I think the most educated thing I have been seeing, and my personal favorite, is people talking about moving to Canada if their candidate they “support” doesn’t win.
You are already living in the greatest country in the entire world. People literally would kill to have the freedom that we do.
And you’re choosing to use it by insulting everything thousands have fought and died for because your candidate, who you won’t remember the values of this time next year, didn’t win an election?
Every great political figure of the past has to be rolling over in their graves right about now.
I understand that some people are very invested in this election, and have put long hours in to supporting candidates they work or volunteer for.
I applaud those people who are actually being proactive about their support and not just voicing it over the internet.
I just wish more people would actually pick up a book and read about the current issues our nation is facing before they structure their political beliefs.
Every time I see a Romney/Ryan or an Obama2012 status or tweet, I can’t help but wonder if that person actually understands their platform or what they have accomplished during their political careers.
Nothing drives me crazier than an uneducated person jumping on a political bandwagon because they have to pick a side.
If you made your choice based on what you have heard from word of mouth, or on television, shame on you.
By voting you have the opportunity to keep democracy alive and help America stay the greatest nation in the world.
It is people that refuse to educate themselves, and learn to think for themselves, that will eventually contribute to the real downfall of America.
There is nothing wrong with being passionate about your political beliefs.
In fact, more people should care about what is going on where they live.
However, if you’re going to share your opinions, check your facts.
Last time I checked, the world isn’t ending and our lives aren’t over as a result of this election.
So try and remember what is important.
kshlakma@capital.edu
