ridiculous

I've decided I am tired of the word 'ridiculous.' I'm going to seem like an old guy here, but I really only here it overused by people in their teens, 20s and lower 30s. (I miss the cutoff since I am 37.)

People use the word to describe the weather, to describe school and job requirements or expectations, and to share their opinions on social or political issues. It seems to me when you are using the word ridiculous you are showing what a closed-minded view you have. Most debaters will tell you that it is in their best interest to eloquently explain the other side of the argument. This shows that they understand the viewpoints of others but that they still have a different perspective. Then they can explain their side of the issue. When people overuse the word ridiculous, I feel that they are exposing their own lack of understanding, knowledge, or empathy.

I propose that we think a little deeper about something before we simply call something ridiculous.

Two of my favorite quotations I have come across recently

"Everyone is someone else's weirdo"
"The opposite of talking is not listening; it's waiting"