1. Don't.
Really. Just don't.
If your FB friend posts something you find extremely offensive - consider following this handy guide to determine if they are an actual friend, true FB friend, or just some rando.
- Do you have their phone #?
- Have you ever met them in person?
- Have you ever had a meal with this person?)
If the answer to all the Test questions is NO - ignore the post and them. You don't know this person - it's hardly worth your time.
2. Take It Offline
If you can't let it go - or if you actually know the person - then send a private msg saying:
"Wtf? Your post really upsets me bc of xyz. I'm personally affected bc my wife/best friend/loved one is pdq. I don't want to get in a long back and forth - bc neither of us has time for that - but I just want to msg and let you know that actual loving breathing people are affected by this topic and here is an example of how: abc."
Or better yet, if you have their phone number, TEXT THEM. Don't play out your conversation in public comments for others to fuel the fire.
3. If You Have To Make A Comment...
Post this:
"This comment/post hurts my soul. Your hatred/bigotry/ ignorance/violence towards a persecuted group has increased my feeling that humanity is doomed. So sad that you feel that need to spread lies and negativity on your wall. I pm'ed you to explain more"
And just leave it at that.
Don't get in an hour's long back and forth - it's not worth it and it changes nothing.
Trust me, you will not change that person's mind.
You can drop a little TRUTH if it makes you feel better. For example:
"There are ZERO reported cases of a transgendered person going into a bathroom and assaulting or bothering ANYONE. Zero cases. Period."
Use facts not opinions. Back up your facts with real sources and research (not just "I saw it on the interwebs").
4. Know When To Walk Away
If it starts to get uglier or personal or name-calling time, just end it.
"This has devolved into name calling /ego trumpeting BS / narcissistic masturbatory idiocy- I'm done. I wish you all the best in all your endeavors. The end."
And go play with a puppy or a toddler or yourself and forget about it. You can't save the world all the time and changing a person's mind on FB is usually impossible.
5. Your Wall, Your Rules
It's different if someone comes for you on your own wall and starts trouble. The answer here is easy:
Just delete their bullshit.
After all - it's your wall.
6. But really, just DON'T
Post cat vids.
"I love you's."
"You are awesome."
If you really want to change the world - meet someone for coffee.
Listen. Respond. Listen some more. Be willing to disagree.
But in the end...
❤️Choose LOVE❤️