Fifth Column

I have been looking at the term “fifth column.”  It seems to me there are “fifth columns” at work in Australia.  I read a lot less papers today but there are nationally syndicated papers aligned to various causes.  I have subscribed to many news magazines over the years.  A cursory look at headlines shows what is supported.  The audio/visual media contains an incredible amount of good stuff, but it seems to be intent on undermining.  I do not know if it does that all the time, but it is what I see at the moment.
We get Foxtel.  There is a news on there that I refuse to watch.  I may or may not agree with them, but I prefer to be presented with the story and make up my own mind, rather than be told what to do.
Various dictionaries and commentaries describe “fifth column” as, “clandestine group or faction of subversive agents who attempt to undermine a nation’s solidarity by any means at their disposal.” (Britannica) “a group of secret sympathizers or supporters of an enemy that engage in espionage or sabotage within defense lines or national border” (Merriam-Webster) “any group of people who undermine a larger group from within.” (Wikipedia).  Although it started out as a military term, and can still be used as such, in civilian life it is used these days closet to the Wikipedia definition.
I recently read a post on Facebook which was balanced, but someone reading only a comment would have been forgiven for thinking it was unbalanced.  However, what was said had nothing to do with a comment made.  It was like what was said was not taken in at all, and only what was believed was communicated by the commenter.
To me, that was like a fifth column comment.  They undermined from within.  In this case from within Facebook.  That does not mean that all disagreement is fifth column stuff.  Disagreement is healthy.  For an open person at the very least it gives pause for thought and can lead to a re-evaluation of a conclusion reached.  To me, fifth column stuff is when the link is tenuous at best, and an “enemy” within pushes an alternative agenda which is diametrically opposed.
Every person has their own view of the world, informed by their experiences and beliefs.  Just because I may think they are wrong does not mean they are wrong.   I may be wrong, but I will never know if I do not remain open.  I do not believe a person’s view of the world should ever be taken lightly or dismissed out of hand.  There seems to be a lot of that these days.  Agree with me or be slammed.
There are many voices in the world, and none are without significance.  Some I agree with and some I don’t.  Some make me change my mind, and some don’t.  It seems to be a bit of a dream, but we hear a lot about respect these days.  You are allowed to disagree, but do it with respect.  Although that falls on many deaf ears, generally a person who is respectful will be respectful.  Those who are not will not be.
I try always to be respectful.  I try not to be a fifth column unless the circumstances demand it.  It does not mean I always succeed in everything I do though.  As has been said about me “is trying.  Very trying.”