Before September 2008, I believed everything I heard on the news. I thought that the news reporters knew exactly what they were talking about on everything said. I was naïve. In September 2008, my family had a complete melt down. Unfortunately, my family’s tragic event was reported all over the news. What I learned after this was the news doesn’t always get their facts straight. It is important for the people watching, reading and listening to get all the facts before they ignorantly make a comment or suggestion.
For a long time after September 2008 I wouldn’t watch the news. I was angry that people were so lazy and judgmental. Then I grew up. I realized if I want to know the truth on anything reported, I better do all the research. Even then I am not always sure that what I find is perfect but at least I am more capable of making an educated remark on that subject.
Since that year, I’ve heard multiple stories reported that are not portrayed accurately. A close family friend’s son was in an accident recently, which had a very sad ending. Again the news reported what was assumed to happen and what people in that neighborhood accused of happening. At no point did anyone ask the children involved what really happened or even report the truth of that story; and now two young people will live the rest of their lives with a heavy burden because our society is judgmental.
Countless stories like this happen every day. The people who turn into victims are the ones that are treated so poorly after the event happened. I’m not saying the initial victims are not hurting. I don’t doubt for one second that they are dealing with serious heartache, but I know all people make mistakes and most people don’t intentionally go out to hurt another human being — at least I tell myself that.
Besides the events that happen on a local level, politics are misconstrued for the different political parties. When you listen, are you thinking that they are reporting one-sided opinions on hot topics most of the time or do you believe what is being said to go for everyone? In order to know where you stand and who to trust, you need to listen and watch more than one channel or paper. Interview people if you really want to know more. It’s our job to learn as much as we can on politics because that is our future. Ignorant votes and opinions will destroy this country.
My point is this — I’m so disappointed in our society and how quick people are to pass judgment when they don’t know all the details. I also understand that our media is trying to sell, but in the process they are damaging people. Along with destroying someone’s ability to get through a life changing event they are making it easier for people to be lazy and cruel.
I think if anyone wants to make an opinion about something, they need to find out the whole story beforehand, including myself. Put yourself in an imaginary hot seat. How would you feel if your life were displayed for the entire world to see, only for people to bash who you are and your mistakes? If you were a political leader, wouldn’t you want people to know what you really stand for? Or is life really only about money? Get the facts and then make an educated decision.