Everyone has good and bad points, strengths and weaknesses. Depending on which one is dominant, makes people either “good” or “bad.” The best of us, the good, there is some bad. And in the worst of us there is some good.
Our attitude and opinions can reveal just how good or bad we are. One way to see this is, those who always find one group or person to criticize and find fault with, makes one wonder where the thinking is. No one group or person is all good or all bad. There are some who can not or will not see any good in a group or person. Constantly and usually publicly criticize and find fault with them. Usually in the areas of religious belief, life style choice, or political leanings.
A positive attitude and approach always results in a better outcome in whatever the subject may be. While a negative attitude and approach results in chaos, damage, bad feelings and division. People with a positive attitude are more pleasant and happier than those with a negative attitude. They are more productive and successful while negative people only seek to criticize and damage or destroy. Being successful is the result of hard work, determination and trying to accomplish something positive. The negative people seem to want success to be punished. Hence the lawsuits and derogatory comments about successful people and their followers, especially political figures.
Are these negative people just jealous of success? Or is there an agenda we don’t hear about. If so, what is it and why?
We have in our country a remarkable system guided by the Constitution. If followed, everyone has a chance to be successful based on their abilities and interests. Yes, there are problems, and nothing is guaranteed. Determination and hard work are the key to success. Whether this results in just having more money or vast wealth, hard work is rewarded. It shouldn’t be penalized or subjected to harassment by political activists.
Everyone has the First Amendment right to Freedom of Speech. We can speak our mind, express our opinions without worrying about being offensive or insensitive. Too often one side is offended by what is said and demands a retraction or apology. It doesn’t work that way, or shouldn’t. Freedom of Speech can’t be restricted or regulated. Maybe these negative people should look up what freedom really means.
Herb Dettmer is a retired Bowling Green resident, U.S. Army veteran and writes this column representing the viewpoint of “Joe Average” citizen. He is freelance writer and author of “Others,” a devotional book. Call or text “Joe” with comments at 419-494-4641.
