Shut up, I'm not a stalker.

I think we all (or most of us at least) understand the difference between a joke and a serious statement. I also believe that words are constantly being taken out of our mouths and turned around until someone has changed their meaning into something we never intended to convey. You can't help that, but you need to realize it happens and be responsible enough to not do it yourself.

Don't assume someone doesn't understand something, and if they take it lightly, don't bash them over the head with your argument in an effort to convert them to your views. Yes, you're passionate, and yes, you care, but you need to know when and where to pick your fights. Kill them with kindness. The more hostile you seem, the more they'll want to fight you. Listening is most important. Maybe pay a little bit of attention before you jump in with bullets flying.