Be Kind (Not Cruel) Online

I recently saw a picture of Pink cooking dinner with her children. It was a candid moment of the singer who was seen juggling kids and cooking – as many of us moms do daily.

I assume this picture was shared with pride and love on Pink’s social media. However, the back lash that followed what was supposed to be a sweet mommy moment, was far from sweet.

The so called “Cyber Critics” reacted with incredibly negative comments, including insulting the singer’s parenting style and intelligence.

This left me to sit in the question, “Why do we shame others online?”

It’s safe to say that none of us are perfect. We all make mistakes, but it is usually never with malice or ill intent. I assure you that I don’t want any of my mistakes criticized or called out in front of hundreds of people on social media. Do you?

Didn’t think so! How about we make a pact? Let’s get in the practice of asking ourselves, “Will what I am about to say HELP or HURT this person?” If the answer is “Hurt,” then, maybe you should consider not posting. Rather, call the person and discuss over the phone or ask to meet in person to air your concerns.

How about living by this rule of thumb: Don’t say something about someone unless you would feel comfortable saying it to that person’s face.

Can you imagine how much less cyber bullying we would have – and our children would have to endure – if we all lived by this practice? There could be fewer cases of anxiety, depression, and suicide.

This may be one rule of thumb you would like to not only try, but teach your children, as well.

Choose Kind,
The Wear the Cape Team