We have lost the art of conversation, of civility, of discussion and vigorous debate. Why? Because we can all hide behind a keyboard. It is all too easy to spit our vitriol and feel puffed up never having to see the pain on the other person’s face.

But, it seems more than that. There seems to be uncivil “Discourtesy” where horrific shaming and ugliness is directed at anyone whose opinion differs from yours. Guess what? We are all different, and if you are alive, there is going to be someone who has a different opinion than you.

So let’s bring back chatting. Good old speaking and dare I say listening? What the devil are we all fighting for? I feel like we are all popinjays or mockingbirds or in the spirit of Hunger Games, jabberjays who scream horrific fears at others without considering consequences.

Jabberjay, jabberjay, jabberjay…

Issues should not spoil our love for one another. Or good fortune, or “fill in the blank”. We have become more than a nation divided, we have become a people divided with strong loathing instead of strong weeping. Do not be so hasty to throw another over lest you be consumed.

In your wrath remember mercy. Madness has no mercy. You see without mercy we become mad, beasts instead of human. So instead of holding court try holding someone’s hand. Instead of hanging them about the neck with your words, kiss them on the cheek.

Because, maybe not today, but one day, you will need that hand to hold, you will want that sweet embrace, you will look for mercy and compassion and understanding, and maybe, just maybe you’ll find it because you gave it first.

Let’s hold more chat.