As the title suggests, this really isn't a diary from me. It is from Senator Obama. When I read it way back on September 30, 2005, I was so impressed with it that I saved it as one of my bookmarks. I suggest that folks go back and read it - for at least two reasons: First, to see what his perspective is on polarization - and in the process of polarization the demonization of people who are otherwise your long term and strong allies. And second, to look at the comments that diary generated. Granted, there were many, like me, who were impressed and moved. But there were equal or greater numbers who questioned his wisdom, his commitment, his zeal, or whatever because he was taking a different view and a different approach to dealing not only with with this country's problems, but also with those who's solutions or approaches were/are different than his.
I thought about doing some excerpts - but better to just read the whole thing - and then cruise the comments. If this man will be our nominee, it seems we need to heed some of his suggestions about how to deal with disagreements, and people who sometimes disagree with us.