Rule 19

Rule 19 of the Rules of the Internet states that the more you hate something, the stronger it gets. I think this is something most people need to know. I think it's something we need to always keep in mind when we find ourselves indulging in hours on hours of negativity directed towards others.

For instance, I saw the title of an article that someone posted today about how the atheists are fearful or mad or something about more people coming to religion. I was like, whatwhat? Really? As a rule, while atheists don't like religion and wish people would see the folly of joining them, I don't think they spend their time being butthurt over people joining them. What is the point of being free from religion if you're just going to obsess about it?

In terms of communicating about the things that you want to have other people listen to, I think it's important to remember what you're really empowering with your words, posts, and time. After all, the more you talk about something, the more people are aware of it. And if you come off as fearful, angry, or crazy, the less inclined they will be to see your side of things.

So when you post about things, especially if you post about them a lot, are you doing so in a reasonable manner? Are your arguments sound and logical? Or are they laden with emotion? Do they pit one side against the other, with one side CLEARLY being wrong and the other side CLEARLY being right?

Hatred is a strong emotion. It isn't one we should just fall into. Hating something takes a lot of time and whether we notice or not, it takes a lot of energy and commitment. These are finite aspects of us that could be used in better ways.