You've probably heard the saying, "the road to hell is paved with good intentions." But how often do we think about what that means? The obvious sentiment is that it doesn't matter what you say you intend to do, but rather what you actually do that is important. But lets consider another angle to this common saying. Take it one step further in your actions. Once you've "done the right thing" does that mean your path is secured to "Heaven" (or whatever is your opposite of hell?) Are your good intentions proven by your deeds?

At first thought anyone may answer yes to the above question. However, when applying this question to the modern world- a world of vast amounts of information (both true and false) at anyone's fingertips- we have to consider if our intentions are pure; or in other words, free of outside influence. Are our motives our own?

Take freedom of speech vs. a communities responsibility to the truth. If some one in your local community is spreading lies, it is easy to expect the local community to censor that individual's beliefs when representing themselves other social structures.

However, assume that man spreading "lies" is from another community which believes very much as he does, and would not consider him a liar. In that second community the man is not seen as being simply censored but rather unjustly suppressed- his right to freedom of speech taken away.

The good intention of that first society to censor the "lies" is what we all face in today's modern, interconnected world. Good intentions pave the way to hell. Hell not being a spiritual or post mortal warning, but rather a general warning for the here and now- and tomorrow.

There are many peoples around the world who do not cherish, or even have the freedom to speak their minds. For those of us who have such freedom, we must never allow it to be "censored" or stripped from any people, or any one.

There is an effort from online mega platforms to limit speech. There is an effort in the media to censor things they see as lies. And there is always an effort in governments to limit or restrict "propaganda" of foreign influences on their people, as well as others around the world according to their nation's interest.

Be cautious of what you declare untrue, or what you feel shouldn't be said. You may find yourself on the defense some day for merely having an opinion. If we all took personal responsibility and researched the things we hear and say, there would be no need to censor anything. The truth is always evident, and the lies exposed. For those who have it, freedom of speech is a responsibility as great as it is a gift. If we keep our hearts and minds open we will have little need for conflict with those who disagree with us.

Beware of the "fake news," not because of the actual fake news, but rather the effort that it will soon represent: the censorship of "lies." Cling to your freedoms or some one will take them from you. Freedom to speak the truth only is not freedom of speech at all. Beware those who counsel you to do vigilantly rather than consciously. For vigilance is also a quick path to hell. While the thoughtful decision will undoubtedly guide you upwards.