-Isms: Views on life in rural America

It does not matter which side of the political aisle you gravitate toward. Saturday’s assassination attempt of former President Trump should give you pause and make you wonder how this nation has wandered so far apart.

In the aftermath, I’ve seen tasteless memes and an abundance of misinformation spread through social channels. I urge you to take a step back, take a deep breath and critically think before clicking the share button or opening mouth (and possibly inserting foot).

I’ll offer what I believe is sold advice, because it’s 1.) basic media literacy; and 2.) common sense.

First, if you choose to post political viewpoints, post wisely. Always. Not just leading up to the election.

Contribute to the conversation instead of promoting division. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. We can agree to disagree. Each of us is entitled to an opinion and, if our opinions are at opposite ends of a spectrum, so be it. It’s ok to disagree;

Always, always, check facts, especially from a variety of sources. You can’t read or listen to a one-sided conversation and honestly believe you’ve completed a fact-check mission. You’ve only heard one side of the story.

Memes are fun, no doubt. They capture attention, make people laugh. But, they are also harmful, create false narratives and spread negative content.

As Americans, we need to be better, even when we find ourselves at odds. We need to work together to create a world in which we wish to live, instead of working against each other because of a warped sense of “I’m right and you’re wrong.” Only when we start listening and talking to each other, instead of at one other, will we see improvements.

Saturday’s act of violence is despicable, a sad commentary on the state of a nation. How we collectively respond will say a great deal about the direction we’re headed.