The Lost Art of the Ability to Disagree

Someone once coined the term: “The ability to disagree without being disagreeable.” Seems this is a great standard to shoot for. Mastodon Migration

Indeed, this seems to be a lost art. Don’t agree with someone, then please, lash out or simply claim that they hurt your feelings/offended you. Make the other guy feel guilty, thus shutting down any future conversation, regardless of subject matter. It’s the easy way out, but where does that leave us?

However, last night on Mastodon, I  saw a small glimmer of light. The author, Mastodon Migration, stated,

Just so proud of Mastodon today.

These times are very challenging. Rather than descend into an abyss of fake news and strident acrimony, somehow Mastodon seems to be largely maintaining a civil tone and self-regulating misinformation. 

It is amazing to see an open social media community functioning this well given the meltdown across other platforms.

Let’s continue to demand accuracy and civility while we debate these seminal issues. Let Mastodon be the beacon in the darkness.

I felt compelled to reply even though the hour was late, and I was already communicating with my pillow.

It gives me hope. It’s refreshing to experience. I hope it remains a place of civility while still maintaining a level of open communication, where we can be discerning adults who aren’t afraid to have a difference of opinion.

I was pleasantly surprised when my reply garnered numerous likes and boosts. Seems this struck a  harmonious chord with a number of kindred souls. Unfortunately, it’s not just social media – it also affects our everyday interactions, however, it’s more prevalent online.

In conclusion, I’m sending thanks to everyone for their exchanges yesterday with the possibility that there’s light at the end the tunnel. My glass is still half-full.