As the Internet would say, word.

The fear of being an asshole (or seen as one, rather) is major, especially with this insane cancel culture going on around us. It's gotten to a point where good people are afraid of expressing genuine, non-aggressive opinions, for fear of some stranger misinterpreting it.

Though it does betray a deeper insecurity, now that I think about it. I mean, obviously there's a social component to it, not to be overlooked. but as long as I'm secure in my knowledge of self, and in knowing that I'm not an asshole, then someone misinterpreting (purposefully or no) my words and intentions shouldn't phase me.

But maybe I'm not secure enough in my knowledge of self, and so, other people thinking I'm an asshole actually risks convincing me of that "fact", you know? Food for thought.