I don’t know who needs to hear this today, but given the state of the world, maybe all of us:
Don’t waste your time with internet arguments. They rarely change minds, and they bring out the worst in us.
If an issue is important enough to try to change someone’s mind, talk to them—face to face if possible.
Have a dialogue. If they seem resistant to your message, consider what may be going on with them emotionally that might be preventing them from seeing what you see. Ask questions. Listen. Be gracious without compromising what’s important. It sounds weak but is actually the most effective way of changing minds, by far.
But if someone won’t listen, no matter what you do—or won’t dialogue at all—ask yourself: How important is it that this person agrees with you?
How important is it really?
Maybe it’s very important. Maybe this person is the sole decision maker on something that could change your life or the world.
But if not, don’t give someone else the power to emotionally hold you hostage. You don’t need to convince that person. You don’t need to prove yourself to them. Let them get the final word if they want it. If you can have a relationship with them despite the disagreement, focus on that. If not, just peacefully exit the conversation, shake their dust off your feet, and go live your life, staying true to your principles and focusing on what gives you life and joy so that you can share it with others.
Because the people in your life need your presence and love more than the internet needs your argument.
