Christmas Message – Free Speech with Tolerance

Two Sides to the Coin

Christmas is often considered a time to reflect, and with the Blog having been going for over a year, I reviewed what I said 12 months ago.

Not surprisingly my thoughts remain pretty consistent, and the topics remain much the same.

My blogs continue to promote freedom of speech, but with free expression there is I believe a responsibility.

Unfortunately it is evident that many people still wish to voice their opinions but without really considering the implications.

It is abundantly clear that many just say the first thing that comes to mind and worry about the true impact later or not at all.

I made the conscious decision that the blog would always be written when able to review and check what is said, being mindful that once out in the big wide world, it can’t be retracted, despite some thinking deleting an ‘X’ message after its been read and re-tweeted, will somehow undo the hurt caused.

The old adage, ‘if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all,’ remains a good starting point.

I also advocate that, ‘if you say something, make sure it’s worthwhile saying.’ This means that when you do put forward an opinion, most people will appreciate it, and know that you more often say meaningful things.

I find that the other saying, ‘empty vessels make the most noise,’ is very appropriate for the vast majority on ‘X’ and on social media.

I also note that a large majority of people, are really only concerned about what they have to say, or blindly agreeing with others that share their opinions, without really taking time to consider matters.

Wouldn’t it be so much better if everyone respected others perspective. It doesn’t mean you have to agree with it, but at least acknowledge there are always two sides to every coin and case.

Also over the last few months the conflicts of old are in the main stream media. There continues to be a blind belief that only one view is right. But as with everything in life there are ultimately always two points of view. No matter what the conflict there needs to be a desire for peace and acceptance of others.

The Gaza conflict will never be resolved without some reconciliation and acceptance of the other sides point of view. I find it rather hypocritical when there are UN demands for Israel to end their war against Hamas, but without the same apparent demand being made on Hamas to end their continued objective to kill all Jews.

Social media and unfortunately in the minority of wider world, we see intolerance and a belief that there is only one way in life. But nothing could be further from the truth.  We are though, fortunate that the silent majority usually knows best, and they perhaps at times, should stand up and be counted.

So my message is, please feel free to express your opinion – it is your right – but be mindful that others may have differing views. It is not for you to impose your take on things to others, in the blind belief that you are always right, but to recognise and accept their will always be another point of view.

You don’t need to accept it, but please at least acknowledge it.

Please be more tolerant and understanding of others. We should always strive to live in harmony and make the world a better place – if not for us then – for our children and future generations.

Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year, no matter what your religion, belief  or persuasion… and as the humorous Dave Allen would say…. ‘and May Your God Go With You.’