Free speech means that we can say anything we want. The government cannot interfere unless we incite others to violence.

But free speech does not mean there are not consequences for what we say. What we say can make us deeply unpopular. We can get into trouble with others and start debates. Free speech does not mean no consequences or having the last word.

Even though I might wish people would agree with everything I believe in and show respect for it, to start restricting what and how people speak is really complicated. I wish people could disagree civilly, but you can't legislate that. Of course there are hate-crime laws and anti-discrimination laws, etc., and those are necessary. But they can be stretched to the point of ridiculousness. For example, when my brother was in jr high, he was sitting with a buddy watching girls in their p.e. class do a tumbling routine. He leaned over to his friend and said in his ear, "Wish I had some butter with that roll" (meaning the girl was fat). Well, her friend overheard and told the teacher, who turned him into the vice principal and he got written up for sexual harrassment! Come ON! People get way too worked up over speech issues. Sure, it wasn't kind what he said, but he didn't publically ridicule her. Had he, then it would've been appropriate to punish him. But, in general, I think people need to relax!. Otherwise, we'll be living in a police state. Can you imagine being afraid over everything you said?! .