You know, for as many toxic people as I've met from both sides, I've met just as many, if not many more, authentic and genuinely wonderful people. Like me, they are just as hurt by the brokenness we all feel around us. Like me, they often are just looking for confirmation that it's not just them, that they are not the odd one out. Who like me, are seeking genuine human connection and not more division and conflict.

Most of my disgust is reserved for the spirit that produces this vitriol we see all over the political landscape. Or, using Dawkins' language (yes, a genuine Christian independent quoting Richard Dawkins), this meme that is infecting the culture at large. It's a plague and I'm always saddened when I see it rear its head, especially here on HN.

I'm not smart enough to have it all figured out, but I've found the most meaningful work I've been able to do is in small communities where face-to-face is the priority. It's why I really prize community work. We're all here, from different backgrounds, working entirely for free, but for a cause we all deeply care about. I've had some amazing conversations during these times.

Anyways, I appreciate your genuine response. I can tell you care deeply, and I encourage you not to lose hope.