Let’s talk about opinions

The definition of opinion says “a view or judgment formed about something, not necessarily based on fact or knowledge.”

By the way, that is the only part of this column that was researched. So, with this being an opinion piece, no one reading has to agree with what is written. Here’s my opinion – if something is explicitly stated as “opinion” and you read it and disagree, just keep scrolling and go about your day.

Let’s face it, at the end of the day there are always going to be things that you disagree with. Just because you don’t agree, doesn’t mean you have to say something. The whole world does not have to be a debate class. What happened to agree to disagree? 

My whole life, I feel like I have been the mediator. The middle man to both sides. Whether it be parents or friends, I am always in the middle. I have always been the one to want to hear both sides. Let me tell you, that gets exhausting. Nothing is more tiring than listening to opposing arguments that have no reasoning behind them. Or having to explain what is being said in a different way so that the other side understands it. 

So, that being said, here’s another one of my opinions. You do not have to agree with everyone. You do not have to like everyone. However, I think if you are not able to have an adult conversation without bashing the opposing side, you should not speak in the first place. So many of the issues in today’s society are because people can no longer have conversations. Everything that is said is taken personally and people get way too defensive. We need to realize that everyone has had different experiences in life and some beliefs are just already set in people’s heads. I also think that questioning someone’s opinion and asking why they think that way (as long as it’s in a nice way) should not be taken offensively. I think it’s a respectable question to want a better understanding.

I have passionate views on some things, so I know it is easier said than done, but why can this not be something that we work on to improve society? I think social media has greatly influenced this because it’s so easy to type a snappy response and hit send or post. I think it’s about time we start thinking through what we respond with. Think about if it is really worth the energy you’re going to use on the subject at hand. If it is, think it through before you respond. Have a conversation, not an argument.

If we spent more time discussing peacefully, it might lead to a better understanding of each other. This is not something that happens overnight. Still, I think with discussion over an argument, in time, things could at least be brought to a level of understanding. 

Carly Thompson is a Hutchinson freshman in general studies

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