In the 2+ years I’ve been blogging I think I’ve only had a couple readers disagree with me.  Either I haven’t been controversial enough (quite possibly) or… people may not want to post a comment that would be in disagreement with me.

It’s OK if we disagree.

Yesterday, I talked about how this social media thing is a conversation.   I want you to know, dear reader… it’s OK to disagree with me.  I welcome education in all forms.  We all have something to learn and something to teach.  I certainly don’t have all the answers.  I’m just like you… I just happen to have this platform to share business-y type things.

Why bring this up?

A friend of mine posted a comment on a blog (not in our industry) and it was not approved by the author.  She is a very respectful professional.  In fact, she gives some of the most insightful comments on wedding and business blogs.  (Yes, I notice!)  But, she did disagree with this blog post.  Apparently the author didn’t want any contrary opinions to be shared with their readership.  It’s a shame, really.  This is all part of the conversation.  When you have a conversation there are points where two individuals may disagree.  It’s an opportunity for one side to learn from the other and vice versa.

Be respectful.

On the flip side, I’ve been witness to some blog posts that become very unbalanced in the comment arena.  The comments take on a life of their own where the writer is bashed for expressing his or her opinion.  This is disrespectful.  Comments should be insightful and helpful and should ADD to the conversation.  If you find yourself disagreeing with the point-of-view of a blog, be respectful in the opinion you share.  It’s easy to hide behind our screens and say things we’d never say to someone in real life.  But, on the other side of that internet is a human being with real emotions.  Be respectful.  Be kind.

What do you think about this?  Have any of these scenarios happened to you?