Mike Tyson once said:
“Social media made y’all way too comfortable with disrespecting people and not getting punched in the face for it.”
As a Gen Xer, I can’t help but nod in agreement. We grew up in an era where you had to say things face-to-face. You knew there were consequences if your words cut too deep. Today, it feels like too many people hide behind a keyboard, firing off words they’d never dare say in real life.
But here’s where it gets heavier: it’s not just about hurt feelings online. Our kids are growing up in this digital world. They’re watching, learning, and absorbing how we treat each other. And the truth is teenage suicide rates have been climbing, with online bullying being one of the contributing factors. Behind every comment is a human being, and behind every screen is someone’s child, parent, friend, or sibling.
So yes, Tyson was right. We are too comfortable with disrespect. And it’s costing us more than we realize.
We need to do better, not just for ourselves, but for the generations coming up behind us. They deserve a world where empathy isn’t optional, where respect isn’t outdated, and where courage means lifting others up instead of tearing them down.
Rebuilding Digital Respect
We can’t (and shouldn’t) unplug entirely. Instead:
- Pause Before You Post — ask: would I say this in person?
- Challenge “Virality Logic” — stop fueling sensationalism with shares and comments.
- Seek Discomfort, Not Confirmation — occasionally look at views that unsettle you.
- Demand Humanization — remember there’s a person on the receiving end of every post.
What do you think-have you ever posted something online you wouldn’t have dared say out loud? Drop a comment (respectfully).
THE OUBAITORI EDIT 
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