In our little world, our little community, I think I'm mostly considered a "good girl," and I'm glad. I really work hard to remain neutral, to stay out of disagreements, to work hard and to work towards a common goal. I think on the whole, I'm able to accomplish this. I don't like being wrapped up in drama, and I don't like to single people out and/or make any decisions ABOUT them based soly on online interactions. People are more than the words they write online, they are more than their opinions alone. And personally, I strive to like everyone equally until they give me a really solid reason not to.
So as I sat here getting heated about all the ridiculous antics going on, I realized that getting upset, that posting my opinions on Facebook, Twitter, etc. only fuel the fire. I don't want to participate in that behavior. I want people to speak and think freely, and to be able to that openly and with courage and passion. So my mission became instant: pledge to work together. This is primarily directed at the weight loss surgery and obesity community, but really? Anyone.
I want kindness, support, and unity in a cause to spread like wildfire just as quickly as gossip, backstabbing, and negative remarks. I want us to be unified, even in our differing opinions. That doesn't mean that we have to be in-love with everyone in the community, it just means that we have to "cease and desist" the crappy behind the scenes (and front lines)behavior - and that means YOU. And ME. Let's just stop this, because really? It's getting ridiculous, and blurring the lines of support, friendship, and activism.
TAKE THE PLEDGE:
- I will NOT actively search for conflict
- I will NOT spread rumors or negative comments about another community member
- I will NOT try to interfere with another's purpose, livelihood, or mission
- I will NOT purposely try to negatively promote a company or person
- I WILL speak to a person directly if I have a conflict, differing opinion or problem
- I WILL remember that people are entitled to their opinions, even if I dislike them or disagree
- I WILL remember that although our experiences may be different, we are working towards the same goal
- I WILL speak openly and honestly about my own personal experiences without fear of reprimand
- I WILL be kind to others
- I WILL remember that I am not perfect, but will always try to be my best to others
I WILL be part of the solution, NOT the problem.
I want to create an atmosphere where any of us can walk up to another and say hello, despite any differing opinions because we know that we are part of the same community. A community that is made up of good and bad experiences, but supported by all of us.
I know that some of you may view this as "pollyanaish", but I'm ok with being branded that if it gets people thinking and acting and paying more attention to promoting positivity in our community. Most of us have had a lifetime of hurt, why inflict more upon each other? We're human, we make mistakes - sometimes towards each other - but it's how we recover from those mistakes that matter.
"What you need to know about the past is that no matter what has happened, it has all worked together to bring you to this very moment. And this is the moment you can choose to make everything new. Right now. " ~Author Unknown
Your actions matter, and mine do too. I'm signing the pledge below to promise to do my best to be respectful and supportive, and hope you do too to show your renewed commitment to respect each other. Share this on your wall and with your community if you agree. Pledge kindness, respect, and unity.
Cheers,
Taunia
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