Human beings communicate verbally as well as with body language and actions. In a society that encourages freedom of speech, the opinion of the communicator is often presented as fact rather than a point of view.

We are inundated with opinion that is presented as fact. Many communicators have lost (if they ever had it) their ability to understand a dissenting point of view. When we speculate on the roots of the rudeness that prevails in our daily lives, we need only watch TV to see that there is little common courtesy. We find that tv anchors thrive on bashing others, we read newspaper accounts from supposedly respected journalists who are close-minded to any idea that is not part of their preaching. There seems to be a need for everyone to talk at once. What happened to the idea that we allow a person time to speak without interruption?

The internet has become an intensely negative voice in our culture. With anonymity (perceived), emotionally unstable individuals comb the medium for prey. Young people who have been raised in a culture preoccupied with sex and violence are no match for these perverted individuals. The internet with its boundless opportunity to share information and enrich the lives of many is a tool that often misrepresents and distorts. It can be a strong voice for educating the masses if they are aware that all information is not necessarily true.

The Garden State Woman website is an attempt to provide information to inspire, motivate and educate New Jersey women. We want you to be the best that you can be for you and your loved ones. How can we teach our children to be polite when all they see is people being rude to each other? Share your thoughts with us.