At what point does hate turn into violence?

            Will that ever-changing level move that darkness of loathing into our rural communities, which, for the most part, have avoided violence?  Can we express and share opinions openly and honestly without having them result in verbal or written smears and violence?

            Can't we just agree to disagree?

            There was a time in our rural communities where people knew just about everyone in their small towns.  Friends were plenty.

            Times change.

            We have had our share of threats of violence.  Instead of ignoring them we report them to the police.  The file just keeps getting larger, and one day, when the threats become actions, the file will be unloaded and those named may have to answer questions they don't want to.

            Is that what some people in our communities are building up to?

            At what point is the threat of violence enough to trigger those who already risk falling off that dangerous cliff into doing something that we all should regret?  In the past few months there have been many examples of that happening.  And, plenty of grief and arrests to go with it.

            Protest?  Go ahead but do it peacefully.  Voice your opinion and concerns at public meetings?  Absolutely, but do it in a sane and coherent way that your audience will understand.  They may not agree but, hopefully, they will understand.  Who knows? You might even change a mind or two.

            Don't like the opinions of your local elected officials?  Here's something you can do.  Run for office and spread your goals and qualifications for the office.  Do so in a manner that will encourage voters to cast their ballot for you.

            Or you can volunteer for any number of public service groups.  It can be a great way for you to meet new people – even some with differing points of view.  It can lead to friendly discussions on those differences.  Again, who knows? You may even change an opinion or two.

            Hate is such an ugly word.  Dislike or disagree is better.  But none of those words written or spoken by you should ever lead to threats of violence or encourage others to violently act on them.

            Vile attacks using social media?  It is election season, what do you expect?  All you can do is fact-check as best as possible, even if the poster doesn't.  Also, fact-checking using another person's social media posting isn't really fact-checking.

            How many folks love each other and agree all the time?  Even doting couples disagree at times, but they still love each other.

            Maybe now is not a good time to broach a particular subject.  Maybe a simple yes or no in response will put a controversial subject to rest without the theatrics many enjoy.

            It's time we take a good look at ourselves and do a better job of controlling our emotions and working a little harder to engage in civilized argument and avoid confrontation.