Choose Kindness in a World of Rudeness

What Is Going On in the World?!

Seriously, what is happening these days? In my 56 years on this planet, I’ve never seen people so divided! It’s like the world has become a giant game of dodgeball where no one remembers why we started playing, and now we’re all just chucking balls at each other. Politics, for example: the left is against the right, the right is against the left, and us Independents are stuck in the middle, scratching our heads, trying to make sense of the madness. It honestly feels like common sense has gone out for coffee and never come back. What’s right is wrong, what’s wrong is celebrated as right, and if you don’t go along with it, you get slapped with a label—maybe it’s “racist,” or “extremist,” or, I don’t know, “pineapple-on-pizza hater.” (Okay, that last one might be fair…) The point is, we’ve lost our middle ground, and with it, our ability to think rationally.

Let’s face it: social media is the world’s biggest instigator. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube have become arenas for people to vent, argue, and roast each other like it’s a national sport. (Seriously, where’s the medal for “Best Comeback of 2026”?) And the news? Don’t even get me started. It’s changed so much over the past 50 years. What used to be a source of information has turned into a drama series where every headline feels like it’s competing for an Emmy. The sad thing is that most of it is made up propaganda. I’ve talked to so many people who’ve just stopped watching the news altogether because it seems like all it does is stir the pot. Then there’s the comment sections on social media posts. Someone shares an opinion, and suddenly it’s like watching a cage match unfold. People go from “I disagree” to “You’re the worst human ever” in about two seconds flat. But here’s the thing about rudeness: it’s easy. It requires zero effort. Honestly, it’s a shortcut for people who don’t know how else to respond.

Now, being kind? That’s a whole different ballgame. It takes actual effort, especially when you’re dealing with someone who seems determined to ruin your day. But kindness is worth it, and here’s why: When someone challenges you, mocks something you believe in, or just generally acts like a troll, remember this: they’re being rude. That’s on them, not you. Don’t let their behavior drag you into the mud. Instead, show some self-control—it’s a superpower these days! Staying calm doesn’t mean you’re weak; it means you’re the adult in the room. And hey, not letting your mood depend on what others say? That’s life-changing. Your peace of mind is precious. Don’t give anyone the power to hijack it.

How to Deal with Difficult People with Strong Opinions

Here’s a crazy idea: if someone offends you, instead of going full keyboard warrior, try reaching out to them. Ask questions. “Why do you feel that way?” “What’s really bothering you?” Then—brace yourself—actually listen.Listening doesn’t mean you agree with them. It doesn’t mean you’re surrendering your beliefs. It just means you’re giving that person the dignity of being heard. People are less likely to lash out when they feel like someone is willing to understand them, even if they’re a little rough around the edges. Now, let me be clear: you don’t have to change your views, beliefs, or values to listen to someone else. You just need to take the high road—and trust me, the high road has way better scenery anyway.

For those of us who are Christians, it’s easy to feel discouraged when the world feels like it’s falling apart. But here’s the good news: God’s still in charge. He hasn’t left the throne, and spoiler alert—He’s not going to. At the end of the day, our actions and choices are between us and God. It’s not about proving we’re right or forcing others to agree with us. It’s about living in a way that reflects His love, grace, and kindness. And let’s be real: I don’t know about you, but I want to hear “Well done, good and faithful servant” one day—not “Depart from me, I never knew you.” That’s a pretty big motivator to keep my focus where it needs to be!

Never underestimate the power of small acts of kindness. A smile, a kind word, or even just choosing not to engage in negativity can make a huge difference in someone’s day. You never know who might need that little bit of light in their life. So the next time you’re tempted to fire off a snarky comment or get sucked into an argument, take a deep breath. Smile. Be the bigger person. And remember: kindness has a ripple effect. It might start small, but who knows how far it can go?

Look, the world’s a little wild right now—okay, a lot wild. But that doesn’t mean we have to join the chaos. We can choose to be kind, to listen, and to love, even when it feels hard or inconvenient. So let’s rise above. Let’s hold on to our faith and our sense of humor, and let’s spread kindness wherever we go. Because at the end of the day, kindness isn’t just about making the world a better place—it’s about being the people we’re called to be. And hey, if all else fails, remember this: God wins in the end. That’s one spoiler you can count on. :)

Remember, don't underestimate the impact of a smile, a listening ear, a heart of compassion and sharing God's love. It may just turn their day around. Start the conversation. Be kind.