I am not liberal. I am not conservative. I am a human being who simply wants peace and harmony in life. My belief system isn’t about politics. It’s rooted in human kindness and equality. But somewhere along the way, kindness became controversial. Why?
I’m not part of the LGBTQ+ community, but if I see someone being mean or discriminatory toward someone who is, I’ll speak up. I’ll say something as simple as, “I don’t care what people do in their lives. Their sexuality is none of my business.” That’s not a political statement; it reflects my respect for others’ autonomy and humanity.

If someone makes fun of another person with a disability, I’ll step in and say, “That’s not nice, and I don’t want to be part of this conversation.” Again, this isn’t about politics. It’s about empathy. Why would I sit idly by while someone diminishes another person’s value because they’re different?
When it comes to racism, the same principle applies. If someone says something that implies another race is inferior or behaves in a racist way, I’ll say, “I don’t think that’s right. I don’t judge people for their differences.” This isn’t a radical stance; it’s basic decency.
I can’t understand why my belief system, grounded in kindness and equality, gets labeled political. Why can’t I just be someone who loves and respects others for who they are? Why does standing up for what’s fair and compassionate suddenly make me part of a polarized debate?
Kindness is Not a Political Statement
I refuse to believe that being kind makes me controversial. I don’t need a political party to tell me that love and empathy are important. I don’t need a political ideology to tell me that every person deserves respect, regardless of their sexuality, ability, race, or background.
I don’t think that’s too much to ask. Do you?
The Problem with Labels
It seems like the moment someone speaks out against discrimination or stands up for kindness, they’re instantly labeled as aligning with one political camp or another. If you advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, you must be “liberal.” If you defend someone being mocked for their disability, you’re “woke.” If you challenge racist remarks, you’re part of some agenda. Why can’t it just be about being a decent person?
Kindness, respect, and fairness aren’t political. They’re human values. Yet, society has managed to politicize even the most basic acts of compassion.
An Example of the Problem
This morning, I came across a video from Fox News where a commentator spoke about the “Me Too” movement, calling supporters of it “psychotic” while adding, “I’m not trying to be mean or insensitive.” She then referenced “Trump Derangement Syndrome” as if that added credibility to her argument.
Let’s break this down:
Psychotic Disorder: A mental health condition defined as a disconnection from reality. Using the word “psychotic” to describe someone’s personal beliefs is not only inaccurate but also harmful to individuals who live with actual mental health challenges. It perpetuates stigma and shows a lack of understanding or care for what the word means.
“Not Trying to Be Mean or Insensitive”: This phrase doesn’t magically erase the harm caused by what follows. Intent doesn’t negate the impact. Labeling an entire movement as “psychotic” is both mean and insensitive, no matter how you frame it.
“Trump Derangement Syndrome” (TDS): Let’s be clear: TDS is not a medically recognized condition. It’s a rhetorical term used to dismiss and invalidate criticism of a political figure. Resorting to such phrases does nothing to foster meaningful dialogue; it only deepens division.
When people throw around words like these, they’re not engaging in honest discussion—they’re using insults to dismiss and belittle. And the fact that this kind of rhetoric is common on major news networks is part of the problem.
When Did Empathy Become Controversial?
Somewhere along the way, the lines between decency and politics got blurred. If you defend someone being mistreated, people assume you have a political motive. If you speak out against discrimination, you’re accused of being part of an agenda. This polarization is exhausting and unnecessary.
Why can’t we agree that being kind is the right thing to do? Why must every act of compassion be scrutinized through a political lens?
Polarization Is the Real Problem
This constant division has created a culture where people feel they must choose sides in every conversation. It’s not enough to say, “I believe in equality.” You’re expected to align with a party, defend a candidate, or take a stance on every issue.
The truth is, I don’t care about politics. I care about people. And I shouldn’t have to defend that.
The commentator in the Fox News clip is a perfect example of how this polarization works. By labeling supporters of the Me Too movement as “psychotic” and referencing TDS, she isn’t engaging in meaningful conversation—she’s fueling division. It’s a tactic designed to shut down dialogue rather than encourage understanding.
Can We Hit the Reset Button?
Some days, I wonder if humanity needs a reset button. The noise, the division, the constant us-versus-them mentality it’s exhausting. But instead of giving up, I remind myself that the world doesn’t need more division. It needs more love, understanding, and people willing to stand up for what’s right.
Kindness isn’t political. It’s human. And I’ll keep standing up for it, no matter how controversial it might seem.
Disclaimer: Journaling is a powerful tool to support your healing process. The CBT exercises in Journals to Healing journals are intended to help you analyze and reframe your thoughts as part of a personal growth journey. However, these journals do not replace therapy or professional help. If you are experiencing intense emotions or feelings beyond your control, please seek professional assistance. Resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) and Crisis Text Line (Text HOME to 741741) are available 24/7 for support. Remember, reaching out for help is a strength, and healing is a process.
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