by Jim Gordon
Here in the United States we are always talking about freedom of speech. I have to say I am in favor of it, yet many times the practice of it seems to be done in the wrong manner.
Freedom to say what we think, how we feel and what we believe should be the right of every individual. Done in the right way it should not be a problem for anyone. There are questions as to how far we go with this and what is beyond freedom in regard to the rights of others and disrespect towards others, but that is for another discussion.
The trouble starts when one group thinks they should be able to say what they think but the other group should not. Or one person is very judgmental and condemning in what they say and are very rude in their presentation. Or the person or group speaking thinks everyone should conform to their way of thinking.
Freedom of speech should be done in a respectful way. Make your point and speak your mind but do it in a way that is not mean and judgmental.
Also remember that we will all have different views and opinions and just because we are free to speak them out, we should be accepting and respectful towards others whose views are going to be different.
Most of the time we would rather fight and argue over opinions, trying to prove ourselves right and the other person wrong. Name calling gets started and it ends up in a mean free-for-all and nothing gets accomplished.
Just because we have the right to say what we think, we have to realize that it is only our opinion. Not everyone will agree with what we say and we should be respectful of others opinions.
It would be best if we could say what we think in a kind and respectful manner, yet I know that does not happen most of the time. By being mean and condescending towards others we usually cause people to be defensive and respond in the same rude manner.
Enjoy your freedom of speech. Express yourself, give your views and opinions in a respectful way but allow the other person to have the same freedom. If we could express ourselves in this manner I think we would make more of an impact and we could actually have meaningful discussions with one another.
Done with Religion 
Free speech is a good thing, yet should be done respectfully. Thanks for commenting.
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Free Speech is a great value for Citizens, one we do not share for us Canadians.
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Yes, and especially with the touch of moderation. Thanks for commenting.
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You are right .Freedom of speech should be practiced with a touch of moderation.
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Thanks for the link. Isn’t it funny how our thoughts change over time as the Spirit teaches us and guides us.
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It’s here- http://dechurched-and-next-move.blogspot.com/2013/08/the-dechurched-wilderness-experience.html It’s an old post when I was still toying with the idea of the small, house church format. I’ve since abandoned that idea, mostly because of a book called Finding Church. I need to rewrite, just haven’t had the time!
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jmwe29 – what is the link to your article you mentioned?
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I understand. Freedom of speech should be done respectfully. Unfortunately it usually is not done that way. Thanks for your comment.
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Problem being so very many think their opinions are facts, and thus the hairy confrontations begin. Just had a comment on my blog about how it’s so very sinful to leave church. Hmmm.
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Thank you Carol. I appreciate it.
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Thank you Jem.
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Reblogged this on carolsimmons.
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Such a good reminder for us all. Thank you, Jim, for such wise words.
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