Status updates, rants on Facebook, and your friends refuse to stop sending you endless memes. When did everyone become so determined to share their vehement opinions and beliefs? Of course, we do need people with convictions; sometimes even with full force – to influence others and have an impact on this misguided world.
We all have beliefs that we are emotional, even steamed up about. When was the last time you took a stand? Do you have any causes? Do you assert yourself, or champion for what you believe in? What is worth fighting for?
People say that you act like you don’t care. Oh, it’s not an act, you say? If you wish to see change, why not do everything in your power to make it happen? A minimum-wage attitude will not get you million-dollar results. Perhaps you choose indifference, and simply allow wrongdoings to happen around you. Not caring may seem harmless, but a disregard for others or for promoting goodness may be a greater threat than you realize. Apathy is the acceptance of the unacceptable. Evil can easily slip its hand into the glove of indifference. Are you willing to fight for justice, freedom, or truth?
Let’s be honest. Most of us can’t simply focus on the issue at hand, without taking things personally. Disagreements can surely bring out the worst in us. Know this, if they have to disrespect or insult you, it simply shows how truly shaky their argument is.
There is no need to remain silent about things that matter. Sometimes the only person who can give you the life you want is you. If you do not resist wrongs, or speak up for what you want, you may end up having to come to grips with a life you don’t want. What could at times be worse than change? No change. Campaigning for what you believe in is no pretty process, my friends.
Do you avoid conflict like you avoid the gym? Or, you forgot to post on Instagram that you’re going to the gym, so your entire workout was a waste of time? Truth is, unless you fell off the treadmill, nobody wants to hear about your workout. You know time really flies when you’re not on a treadmill. But I digress…
Haters and energy drainers abound nowadays. You know that haters are people who secretly wish to be you. Many will be threatened by the strength of your convictions. Sometimes your stand needs to be nailed to the ground, when fighting to preserve your core values in this world. A climate of fear has stifled alternate opinions and even facts on many issues. Have confidence in the level of knowledge you gain, despite their lack of popularity in the media. Let your understanding and intuition drown out your doubts. Others need to know what you stand for. But they also need to know what you won’t stand for, my friends.
Do not believe so-called “truths” that are told to you. Please bear in mind the wider implications of most decisions made by government, so-called leaders, or the powers that be. From the moment you get out of bed till the second your head hits the pillow, the media is bombarding you with their biased positions, implying that they know what is “best” for you. Watch any TV lately? It’s called “programming” for a reason. Do research on alternative media sites. Pause and ponder your own principles.
You know most people think climate science is fake, but pro-wresting is real. Heh. The media demonizes humans and humanizes demons. Do not allow your ignorance to be their power. Come to think of it, why haven’t you seen a Lamborghini commercial before? It’s because the people who can afford them aren’t sitting around watching TV.
Use your critical thinking, but do not be afraid to stand outside of your comfort zone. The more difficult it is, the more crucial it is to do battle for what you believe in, and know to be just. Remember that society does not dictate your moral-ethical value system. Others may tell you that your concerns or views are illegitimate. They may even suggest that your ideas are ill-advised, even crazy. You do not need strangers on the street to support you. Do not allow others’ negativity to become a mantra in your mind. Please don’t give others the pen to write your story. It is yours alone.
Sure, you are fighting an uphill battle, but just imagine the view from the top. And don’t forget to wear your good shoes. It always seems impossible – until it is done. You know what they say: Always give 100 percent, unless you’re donating blood.
The world actually needs bold, brave, and bright people right about now. Your way of thinking distinguishes you from everyone else on the planet more than anything else. Of course you do not wish to argue with others; but how then do you keep your moral integrity? You fear backlash if you speak your mind. I get it, truly. But it takes bravery, backbone, and moxie to defend a belief or view, particularly an unpopular one.
Sure, you can sit around waiting for someone else to lead the charge, but guess what? They may very well be waiting for you to be the one who makes the noise.
Above all, always fight for your right to love and be loved, sweet friends. Heck, I loved you at first fight. Remember that relationships that last are simply two imperfect people who refuse to give up on each other.
Caroline is a licensed psychotherapist, crisis counselor, and writer with an office in Queens. She works with individuals, couples, and families. Appointments are available throughout the week and weekends. She can be reached at 917-717-1775 or at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or at facebook.com/pages/Safe-Haven-Healing.