You say tomato and i say tomahto

A short time ago I logged out of Facebook for almost a week.  I did this for several reasons, one was that I couldn't take the fighting and hatred being flung about - the polarization, the us vs them mentality;  secondly I was finding myself getting so angry that I was afraid I was going to start spewing meanness and not only did I not want to act like that but I didn't want to think or feel that way either and lastly I think the world just crowded in on me and I needed space. 

Leaving Facebook helped enormously, I had more time and more peace, and I think I will continue to take breaks.  However, I enjoy the connections, the inspirations, the camaraderie, and the humor so I didn't want to stay away for too long.
 
With that being said I wanted to make a few statements in reference to some of the posts that trigger me because we seem to be choosing sides in issues that don't even require it.  I think underneath most of us can unite.  So here goes and please know I do not mean offense to anyone with my words.
 
Just because I support Black Lives Matter does not mean that I don't support other life - in case you hadn’t noticed I am vegan - so I take the respect for life thing pretty seriously.
Black Lives Matter vs All Lives Matter
 
Just because I support Black Lives Matter does not mean I am anti police.  I know there are many fine, honest, caring officers, and their lives are being put into greater danger by those that engage in brutality and injustice.
Black Lives Matter vs Police
 
Just because I support compassion and support for immigrants does not mean I am advocating for them INSTEAD of veterans.
Immigrants vs Veterans (apples to oranges in my opinion)
 
Just because I support full punishment for cruelty to animals does not mean that I don't support full punishment for crimes against people.  Are comparisons really necessary when it comes to abuse and suffering?
Michael Vick's cruelty to dogs vs crimes against people
 
Just because I support the notion that every being (human and animal) has the right to medical assistance when needed, does not mean I support socialism.
All sentient beings vs wealthy ones.
 
Just because I support a woman's right to choose does not mean that I am pro-abortion.
Abortion vs the right to choose
 
Just because my opinions about the way this virus is being handled may vary greatly from yours does not mean I am right and you are wrong, or vice versa.
Freedom vs security
 
Just because you say tom "ah" to and I say tomato does not mean that we can't find value in each other.
 
Let's talk, let's discuss, no bashing, no hatred, no snide posts.   And before you speak or post, ask yourself what is my goal in sharing and what energy am I generating and passing on.  Is my goal to inform, to empower, to bring smiles or laughter, to insult, to cause dissension, to unite, to vent, to garner support?  Am I looking for a discussion or an argument, am I learning or teaching?  Maybe if we can get a little clearer on our intentions, we will be more mindful of our words and posts.
 
So, you bring your value and I will bring mine and maybe, just maybe we can move forward together.

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