The old adage that you don't talk about politics or religion in social situations has never been more true. You can also add sports and the weather to that list.
No more just being sure to avoid your Uncle Harry or cousin Sue at the family cookout because you don't want "to get them going." You can pretty much extend that caution to everybody at the party.
We just don't understand anymore where people's hot buttons are. The reasons why we find ourselves in this situation can be a debate unto itself.
I personally look at technology and the inability of many to use it responsibility.
Twitter has allowed those, who not that long ago would walk away muttering in disagreement after a conversation, to now broadcast their frustrations for all to read.
It's given bullies -- never the bravest people in the world -- the opportunity to attack or shame others without having to deal with the consequences.
The media is at fault, too. The obsession with being first and not necessarily right has led to misinformation and needless controversy. Let's face it, hardly anyone reads the corrected story, so the error takes on a life of its own as truth.
Fr. James Martin, SJ is a noted author and journalist. He's been making headlines recently because of his writings about how the Catholic Church should do more to reach out to the LBGT community. As a result, he's also experienced his share of social media attacks from alleged "Christians" because of his position.
Many of us are familiar with the Serenity Prayer. Fr. Martin has penned a version that is useful for our times.
The New Serenity Prayer
By: Fr. James Martin, SJ
God, grant me the serenity to accept the people I cannot change, which is pretty much everyone, since I'm clearly not you, God.
At least not the last time I checked.
And while you're at it, God, please give me the courage to change what I need about myself, which is frankly a lot, since, once again, I'm not you, which means I'm not perfect.
It's better for me to focus on changing myself than to worry about changing other people, who, as you'll no doubt remember me saying, I can't change anyway.
Finally, give me the wisdom to shut up whenever I think I'm clearly smarter than everyone else in the room, that no one knows what they're talking about except me, or that I alone should have all the answers.
Basically, God, grant me the wisdom to remember that I'm not you.
Amen.
Keep it in mind the next time Uncle Harry wants to talk about climate change.
