It used to be that if we wanted to be critical of people we had to write an op-ed piece or a letter to the editor of a publication. Today all we need to do is log on to facebook or twitter and ream the crap out of them. We get mean. We get cruel. We viciously assault them with our harsh judgments. And what's worse, we cloak it in self-righteousness. it feels so good. Unfortunately, it's really bad what we're doing. It reflects very poorly on us, even if we have millions of minions supporting our mean-spirited rants. Additionally, it shuts off dialogue which could provide an opportunity for real communication, perhaps understanding and compromise. So what's a self-righteous crusader to do about all this? Put your own house in order and treat people as you wish to be treated. Disagree with others if you feel the need to, but do it with compassion and integrity.