Each of us, every day-debate.
Who will wash the dishes?
What movie do you want to see?
Where should we go for dinner?
When should chores get done?
How should we spend that extra money?
Why did you do that?
As a preschool teacher, I encourage my students to "use your words" (as opposed to hitting Johnny over the head with the block that you want).
We talk, sometimes argue, fight until...agree to disagree?
Our Founding Fathers welcomed debate. They found it necessary- the foundation of democracy. Free Press was the insurance of an informed public- to grasp an understanding of issues concerning the welfare of the people who were then able to weigh the pros and cons and vote accordingly.
Campaign debates allowed voters to hear both sides of "this is what I want to do", "this is what I will do" "vote for me". This has been our country- our way of life for over 200 years.
But now, today, after a joyous signing of Health Care Reform, my heart is broken. Two members of my family have officially disowned me. No more can we talk about sunsets and sleigh rides, pumpkins and lollipops. There can be no common ground, nothing to agree on- because I am a liberal.
So sad. So very very sad.
Years ago, my then nineteen year old daughter participated in the "Right to Life" march in Washington DC. I remember at the time agreeing to disagree with her views and steered away from any political talk, yet at the same time I was a little proud knowing she was willing to stand up for her convictions. That's how I feel and that's how I will always feel. Debate- differences- are necessary. I may not agree with what you say, but you have the right to speak.
Now she and my sister are totally brainwashed by Rush and the idiot hate mongers at Fox. They do not know the truth and cannot be told otherwise. Their churches claim the biblical truth- we are in an Obamanation, destined for doom. And I am a doom deliverer- because I am a liberal.
Two close friends have left my 'circle' last year, choosing instead to hop on board the Freedom Bus- to get their country back. I have not spoken to them since. Their choice, not mine.
Functioning families do not condemn the dishes, consider movies and restaurants 'death traps' or ignore chores in the hopes they would go away. Reasonable people do not allow someone else to do their thinking for them
The common talking point is now, "not since the '60's has this country been so divided." I disagree. I survived the '60's. This is more like 'brother against brother' 'sister against sister' 'daughter against mother'.
I truly fear the split happening now cannot be repaired.
Something has to be done about the propaganda speech, the brainwashing lies that are being told to foolish angry people.
Like Sarah Palin. Hey Sarah- who is 'palling around with terrorists' now?