There Is No Time for Reflection
Some time ago, I published a summary of a podcast episode where we discussed questions about equine influenza vaccination. The response was overwhelming – so much so that I eventually had to close the comment section. I was even reported and ended up in “Facebook jail.”
It stirred up strong emotions. The discussion quickly became polarized – for and against – and even expanded into debates about other vaccines. Despite the consequences, I do not regret bringing up the topic. On the contrary. When reactions are that strong, it shows how important it is to talk about difficult issues. The level of interest was clearly enormous.
Before each podcast episode, I create a few short reels as a preview and post one each day. There was a great deal of engagement there as well – many comments and strong opinions. So when the full podcast episode was released, with clear links to make sure no one would miss it, I was surprised by how few people actually listened.
I had expected that those who were so engaged in the posts and reels would also want to hear the full conversation. That made me reflect. How many people take a stand based on a short post or a one-minute video, where they only see or hear a fraction of the discussion? Have they truly explored what it means – whether they are for or against – or is their opinion based on something they heard from someone else? Is there real experience behind it, or is it simply a reaction in the moment?
It sometimes feels as though we are quick to judge without knowing the full background. We live in a stressful time, where we are expected to take a position on almost everything. Yet there is time to comment – just not always time to listen to the entire discussion.
Many people also choose to write anonymously. They want to participate in the conversation, but not necessarily take full responsibility for their words. We want to be seen and heard – but often only one way. When someone holds a different opinion, it can feel threatening, and then it becomes easier to report than to engage in dialogue.
I do not like when the space to express oneself – whether in a post or a comment – is restricted simply because opinions differ. If you are certain you are right and do not want to encounter other perspectives, why not simply scroll past what you do not like?
I will continue writing my blog, producing my podcast, and addressing new topics. I hope that even those who do not fully agree with me can see it in a broader context – and perhaps also explore the many other conversations and interviews I have shared over the years.
We can never agree on everything. And as I often say: do you stop watching TV just because there is one program you do not like?
Thank you to those of you who continue to follow, listen, and engage.
My podcast is called Horse and Health, and you can find it on most platforms.
