Lately, it’s become disturbingly normal to see people mocked online—someone shares a thought, and within seconds, they’re ridiculed. Maybe it’s misplaced revenge, an attempt to feel superior, or just another cycle of hurt being passed along. But what we’re really witnessing is tolerated bullying.

Imagine this happening in real life—to a coworker in a meeting or a child in a classroom. The sting of relentless laughter, meant to diminish rather than uplift, is more than hurtful; it’s damaging. And yet, somehow, we’ve accepted it as part of the culture. But should we?

Fear of judgment keeps us from growing, from connecting, from evolving. If we truly want a less divided world, it starts with choosing compassion over cruelty. No one should be considered “fair game” for mockery. Instead of tearing people down, let’s choose to lift them up.