People can be mean online. 

There is such a temptation, when we don’t have to look our neighbors in the eye, to be rather viscous with one another. 

It seems that no one can post in the local community forums on social media without getting some snarky or downright rude comments. 

Post: “I’m looking for a new job in the Becker area. Does anyone have any openings?”

Comment: “Um, YEAH. EVERYONE is hiring. Maybe try actually asking some local businesses! (Insert passive aggressive laughing emoticon here.)”

Post: “Just an FYI for families, Big Lake Schools are e-learning today due to the snow. Stay safe out there!”

Comment: “What?! Canceled for a little dusting of snow?! This is ridiculous. Back in my day, it could snow twice this much and we’d still go to school, walking uphill both ways. This generation is so weak and afraid of hard work.”

Post: “How are the roads heading towards St. Cloud? I had an appointment today.”

Comment: “The condition of the roads is completely subjective. Maybe actually try looking outside instead of sitting on your butt in front of the computer, sheesh!”

These examples are made up, but very similar to real ones I’ve seen.

Why must we tear each other down? Before technology, when someone needed help finding a new contractor, job, salon, or anything else, they would turn to neighbors for recommendations. It’s not a crime to trust someone’s opinion rather than to blindly approach businesses. 

There was a lovely post in the Facebook Becker Forum awhile back on the factors that go into school cancellation. It’s not an easy choice. And, nowadays, we have the option to let kids learn from the safety of their home. That’s not a bad thing! It wasn’t even an option until recently. (Also, the kids don’t get to make that call, so it’s hardly fair to blame them as being “weak.”)

As for asking about road conditions: We’re all trying to stay safe. Some don’t have the luxury of snow tires or four wheel drive. They’re just trying to figure out how to keep themselves safe and warm in uncertain weather. 

Instead of being rude, maybe we should try being helpful, or, failing that, rolling our eyes and moving on. Seriously. Just keep scrolling.

After all, next year is a presidential election year. We need to save all our viciousness for 2024!