The following is an editorial blog by Managing Editor Travis Ruiz
Like so many others, I was raised to treat others like I wanted to be treated -- the Golden Rule.
In today's age, with social media dominating our everyday lives, it seems as though we're losing that respect we once had for each other.
We are now using our cell phones, tablets and computers as a shield: a shield to protect ourselves from our own, many times, hurtful words.
I can't tell you how many times I've seen or even experienced personal attacks on Facebook.
Would the person that was saying the rude and hurtful things ever say it in person? No, probably not. Instead, they hide behind their computer screens and muster up the fake courage to viciously attack.
Seriously, would you walk up to a person and say something like "I don't like you. I hope you fail."?
It's much easier to complain, ridicule and belittle people from behind your computer screen. It's like people develop this super power of building themselves up and pushing others down.
People are not the same as they once were, especially online.
What happened to the rule of only saying something if you had something nice to say? Yes, I realize we live in a different world now but I believe we should still have the common decency to respect others.
Facebook is an open forum and yes, we should be able to express our opinions. We should be able to express our own opinions, whether negative or positive, without hurting others.
Words hurt, even from strangers.
And if you want to personally attack someone, why don't you do it to their face? Everyone has the freedom to express their opinions but let's remember the golden rule.
Would you want to be treated the way you treat others?
