Political Ramblings - Part 2

The pursuit of true solidarity in America seems impossible. Cursory observations of daily media rhetoric reveal a widening gap between the "Right & Left." Perhaps this is 'as good as it gets.' While a sad commentary on our "civilized nation," it's becoming quite clear that solidarity was NEVER the objective of our democracy. This is cool, too. Our differences should never be dissolved into our melting pot of a nation, and any suggestion to do so would be un-American.

My concern arises when we become so polarized that we can no longer get things done! Yes, if one word characterized our nation, it is "Polarized;" separate, divided, disjunctive. How can we get beyond our disagreements on policy or politics? This is the question…

I believe a key challenge is with the unyielding influence of the media. For years, I've listened in disbelief to conspiracy theorists tort on the divisiveness of the media. Now, I believe. One outspoken commentator was asked if he had anything good to say about The President of the United States, and his round-about response was "NO!" To this I take extreme issue. Our president is criticized for doing too much and much of nothing simultaneously! This is simply impossible! However, to get to a point where nothing positive can be mentioned or reported on, at times by an entire network, is simply unforgivable. Typically, the response is, "What about the networks who only report on the good stuff about our president?" I would suggest that both sides should "check themselves!"

This challenge is seemingly unsolvable, due to both parties/sides feeling to be the best representatives of our nation. Much of what both sides are saying are mere mimics of what they heard someone else say. Very little truth is actually made public. To this end, we must continue to sift through the filibustering, until a still small voice is heard…Who will become the voice of reason?

Political Ramblings...Part 1

I have long prided myself on being somewhat of a critical thinker; one who engages arguments and positions with objectivity and fairness. This recent onslaught of political unrest has put me in the greatest quandary. How does one criticize the 'critical' without falling into the trap of sides and positions? As soon as one speaks out against the outspoken, the labels begin to fly; 'liberal,' 'conservative,' 'independent,' 'moderate,' 'racist,' 'sell-out!' For the record (not even sure whose keeping track), I would classify myself as a moderate conservative with a bent towards social justice, founded in Biblical principles, with a view towards real history, personal responsibility, grass-roots mobilization, and unlimited opportunities for all. Whew! (I use these tags/labels because I have to)!

As I watch the 'talking-heads' on television, I am so saddened by the degradation of the human soul. In my honest and humble estimation, no one is getting it right! Hence, we have this cesspool of venomous bloviating that has become normalcy. It is now normal for individuals to disagree with another using logical fallacies laced with systematic subjectivity; to speak in such a way as to intimidate the other, just because it's YOUR show; to use names and labels to tear down one's opponent, thus eliminating the need for them to even speak; and to ignore any/all information that disagrees with your position!

How did we get here? When did entertainers gain so much power? Why do we receive any posting as 'truth,' without maintaining a healthy perspective on all issues? Here's the other side, everyone simply cannot be right! Our arrogance and complete lack of humility are preventing us from sincerely re-examining the evidence, reviewing our motives and most significantly, repenting!

Ok, ok, this is just part 1...