Yes; more metugh. Forgive. But things are really just kinda nuts around here and we are moving into campaign season where we will be much more effective if we're playing nice in the sandbox here and working toward common goals. I know we share these in abundance, whatever our quarrels may be.
So, in the interest of that and seeing far fewer comments of the "I don't participate much here anymore" variety, I submit the following suggestions for life here at the Big Orange.
1. Stick to the facts.
This really requires no explication, so I will just say this: Before you click post, ask yourself if you are 100% sure about what you are claiming. If yes, rock on! If no, to the Google! In this modern day and age when answers are so readily had, there is simply no reason to ever get a knowable fact wrong.
For example, the debt deal actually expanded Pell Grants tremendously and did not, as is sometimes claimed, gut student aid. Provisions of PPACA entitling seniors to preventive screenings and check-ups at no out-of-pocket expense went into effect immediately.
etc.
2. Analysis, not emotions
This is somewhat of a corollary to number one, in that it also exalts facts over other considerations, like how one might respond viscerally to information. Have that response; live it. Honor it and move through it. Most of all, use it, but as an impetus, not the means/end itself. Ask any master of the martial arts and they will tell you that anger and fear cloud the mind.
3. Don't say things that aren't true.
Noticing a pattern here? Facts reign supreme. The problem is, some things are less empirical than others. We can, for example, verify what is and isn't in a piece of legislation. But there is no Google to verify whether or not Obama hates so-and-so, desires X in his heart of hearts, or is some kind of Manchurian fill-in-the-blank.
Short and hopefully sweet. Have a lovely Sunday!