Over the past few weeks our political landscape seems to be turning very toxic. We have people on Newsvine who have picked sides and dug themselves very deep with regards to their political leanings. It seems that conversations can not happen without name calling, post being closed, deleted, people being suspended or banned.

     It is troubling to see fellow viners going after each other in this way. Pushing your political beliefs doesn't have to be a blood sport especially with a forum like Newsvine. Newsvine gives every one an equal chance to state fact, opinions, likes and dislikes...it is really a good place to state your case or opinion.  

     I've seen people leave Newsvine because its tearing them up inside. While some leave for a break some never come back. We all loose yet another voice when they are gone. I've found myself getting headaches, anxiety and stomach troubles because some viners want to push the envelope to get a equally offensive response. I, like other, fall into that trap on occasions and that doesn't make me feel good about myself. Being a progressive and considering myself a generally nice person I try to follow the CoH but it has become hard and something I have to work on every day.

     Is it possible for all Newsvine members to get alone during the next few weeks? I think we can. But we will have to approach each seed thinking... is it possible for me to post a comment without posting an offensive remark?

     Standing up for your beliefs and being able to defend them are very important to many of us on Newsvine. But just sometimes we have to say... can we all just get along?