Social media is a very interesting place. It’s where you can join a group that’s meant to include people all interested in the same things, and still watch, in the comments of each post, a battle royale of differing opinions, all just as loud as one as one another, and all apparently lacking in spell-check. Everyone is right and wrong simultaneously, and they’re all ready to “talk” about it.

It occurs to me that the majority of people, even while meaning well, are lacking in finesse when it comes to giving advice. That’s putting it mildly. My usual response when I read some of the replies to advice questions is “Who taught you how to talk to people?” and then I remember that I should be more compassionate and kind, and not hold people to a high standard.

Strict with myself, but understanding of others. Not everyone has the education I do. Not everyone has the same discipline. Some have very narrow perspective. Some have very fragile egos. Some aren’t willing to learn to communicate well.

I don’t have to let it bother me. These people exist. And they aren’t in my control.

If I have to learn anything here, it’s that maybe I could learn how to give advice in a kinder, more easily received way. Or alternatively, learn how to argue better, if such things present themselves as necessary. Who knows.