"Free speech or abuse?" Topic

Other people think?

That is a novel concept. I will have to think about it.

Actually the only thinking going on is inside my own head. Or, at least if feels like that is where thinking is going on. I don't really know.

I have discovered this correlation: what I think leads to what I might have to say. So I try really hard to not foster unkind thoughts for anybody. A lifetime of thinking well of people, especially those who are least likeable, has channeled my life in positive directions. There really is something about how we relate to the universe which characterizes how our lives tend to work out. Negative, attacking behavior grows similar responses in everything/one around us. Pleasantness originating from within tends to create a buffer or zone of pleasantness around ourselves. And that spreads outward wherever we are.

I feel more sorry for the cretin with the rude mouth than I do the waitress….

You're exactly right. Negativity is death. A positive attitude and being optimistic is generally the best way to handle things.

Thinking the best of others tends to bring out the best in you.

I don't know which of the pair I feel more sorry for. The waitress may just have been having a bad day in general, which lead to her outburst. So might the racist, for what it is worth. Either way neither was able to contain their emotions and I pity them both, but I think both of them are capable of being better.

I don't know which of the pair I feel more sorry for.

I'm so glad to see empathy!

To be honest PS, if I didn't half suspect your arguments were no more than internet posturing, I'd be worried about you.

I was taught at an early age etc

The application of such psychological armour, to avoid the pain that can be inflicted by others, is indicative of a difficult childhood &/or bullying.

It was said (above), I think jocularly, that you need a hug. In all truth, I think you need several.

Good luck & best wishes.

Do you feel hugged today? I do….

I wouldn't be holding my breathe waiting for a hug from me, Doug. I have standards and all….

"The application of such psychological armour, to avoid the pain that can be inflicted by others, is indicative of a difficult childhood &/or bullying."

I had a great childhood. My parents loved me and were very engaged in my life. They encouraged me in my interests whatever they were. I was bullied in elementary school on the bus one year, but they stopped when I wouldn't stop doing what they wanted me to stop doing.

This isn't indicative of a difficult childhood. This is understanding the psychology of bullies.

In my life I have plenty of affection and attention. Probably one of the reasons why I don't need to pay attention to the thoughts of random strangers.

It sounds like everyone else here needs more hugs.