Way too many people take another's opinion as fact.  It is or it isn't.  Maybe some or it is and some of it isn't.  It is their opinion and you have to draw your own based on whether you believe them or you choose to investigate the truthfulness of their opinion when forming your own.

            But, they still have the right to their own opinion.  You can disagree with it, argue and hope they'll change it, or do nothing and stay your own course.  Or, you can downright rage a war of words telling the world that your opinion is the only one that matters and if you don't agree with me you are a racist, bigot, socialist, homophobe, communist, Nazi, Karen, or any other derogatory and insulting name of the day.

            Just because one group or another supports a particular candidate does not automatically mean that the candidate supports that group.  So, don't assume it.  

            The opinion of others may be rooted in facts or may not.  Those quick to hate or jump to conclusions need to calm down and know that a better response might be something like "I disagree with your opinion.  My opinion is _____".  Hopefully a civil conversation will ensue.

            An opinion is an opinion.  You can fact check it all you want and prove it right or wrong, but it still boils down to that person's opinion.  You can work to change that opinion but if try to squash or mock it without reason, or violate their rights while trying to suppress it, you're dancing on a slippery slope. 

            And, if you blame the messenger you are a coward.  Face those you disagree with and offer your own opinion and do it in a civil manner.  If you want to fight or make threats go back to social media.

            We cannot let hate and divisiveness permeate our communities.  We have enough in Harrisburg and Washington, D.C.

            We can agree to disagree and argue different opinions without vile language or actions, or even worse, resorting to threats or fisticuffs.  This is not the right example to set for the youth who watch and learn from us.  Bullying is bullying; in person, in writing, or online.  We are all teachers in one way or another.

            Youth learn so much from adults.  Stop teaching them how to hate.

            Sticks and stone may break my bones but names will never hurt me.  But they do feed the fires of hate and divisiveness.