In the vast and dynamic world of the Internet, it’s disheartening to see the proliferation of The destructive poison of political hate about political candidates, whether Democrat or Republican. This negativity not only tarnishes the platform’s purpose but also harms the individuals perpetuating it. Drawing on the teachings of Florence Scovel Shinn, let’s take a look at the destructive nature of harboring hate and the importance of cultivating a more positive and independent approach to our political discourse.
Shinn’s philosophy centers on the idea that our thoughts and words shape our reality. When we engage in posting or sharing hateful rhetoric, we are essentially poisoning our own minds and spirits. Hate is a corrosive force; it eats away at our well-being and clouds our judgment. By constantly focusing on the negative aspects of political candidates, we allow that negativity to become a part of us, and it begins to tear us apart from the inside.
Political Hate is Self-Perpetuating
Hate, as Shinn would argue, is a self-perpetuating cycle. The more we indulge in it, the more it grows within us, leading to a pervasive sense of anger and dissatisfaction. This not only affects our mental health but also our physical well-being. Numerous studies have shown that chronic anger and stress can lead to a host of health issues, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and weakened immune function. By allowing hate to take root in our lives, we are essentially sabotaging our own health.
Moreover, politics is often a dirty game where some individuals have no scruples and will say anything to sway voters. This manipulation is frequently done by taking words out of context to create misleading narratives. For instance, if a politician says, “Anyone who says one particular race of people are stupid, are totally wrong!” a dishonest party might quote them as saying, “One particular race of people are stupid.” This kind of selective editing is designed to provoke outrage and deepen divisions.
Don’t Fall for it
Unfortunately, many of us fall into the trap of reacting to these manipulated soundbites without seeking the full context. We allow our emotions to be hijacked by those with ulterior motives, and in doing so, we become pawns in their game. This manufactured hate not only distorts our perception of reality but also prevents us from engaging in meaningful and constructive political discourse.
The negative consequences of harboring such hate are profound. It leads to a polarized society where dialogue and understanding are replaced by animosity and division. It also isolates us from those who hold different viewpoints, creating echo chambers that reinforce our biases and hinder our growth. In the end, we become prisoners of our own negative emotions.
However, there is a way out of this destructive poison of political hate cycle. As Florence Scovel Shinn teaches, we have the power to choose our thoughts and words. By consciously deciding to think for ourselves and seek the full context of political statements, we can break free from the manipulation and negativity that pervades the political landscape. This requires effort and a willingness to challenge our own preconceptions, but the rewards are worth it.
Shake off the Poison of Political Hate
Changing the way we think is not easy. It involves shaking off the sticky paper of ingrained beliefs and prejudices that cling to our minds like a stubborn piece of tape on our shoe. But with persistence and commitment, we can cultivate a mindset of compassion, understanding, and independent thought. We can choose to engage in political discussions with an open mind, seeking common ground rather than focusing on differences.
The poison of political hate rhetoric that pervades political discourse on platforms like LinkedIn is a poison that harms both the individuals who spread it and the society as a whole. By embracing the teachings of Florence Scovel Shinn and choosing to think for ourselves, we can break free from this cycle of negativity and create a more positive and constructive political environment. It requires effort and determination, but the peace of mind and improved well-being that come with it make the journey worthwhile. So, let us choose compassion over hate, understanding over division, and independent thought over blind allegiance. It is a choice that will benefit us all.
Tom Monson is an award-winning author and film producer. His book, The Teachings of Florence Scoville Shinn is available on Amazon.