Choosing Isolation

I like to think of myself as a people person, but I’m finding that more and more difficult as I grow older. The art of conversation has died, and in its place, we are left with arguments seemingly decided not by the validity of a position but by the volume at which someone yells their part at everyone else. 

Even before the volume increases, things have generally deteriorated into name-calling and insults, none of which leads to any meaningful discussion. Everyone is on edge and on guard lest they be caught unaware by someone who disagrees with them. 

I used to love meeting and getting to know people, but now I would rather stay home and avoid the inescapable and unnecessary drama. I don’t claim to be right any more than the next person, but I’m just sick and tired of the hatred and intolerance out there. 

There seems to be no space for Kindness in so many people’s lives, which is sad. I wish I knew what could be done to increase kindness, but so many people will consider some infringement on their rights or nonsense. I can only focus on the here and now with Hal and The Stooges at home. I have a great life and don’t want to risk it by inviting turmoil and anger into my life. I dealt with those feelings for years, and I gained nothing from it. I wasted those years and ruined my health in the process, so I speak from experience.

When all is said and done, what are we trying to accomplish in this life? Now that we are here to live and support one another, that requires communication that we sorely lack in this modern world, with the irony that communication is faster than ever, but the message gets lost in the noise.