I do tilt a bit toward the conservative side; however, our problems are not solved by histrionics or vague appeals to principles. President Obama meets with sympathetic billionaires while small business leadership is ignored. Meanwhile, extending the current tax rates becomes a flash point for berating the rich, while basic economic realities are ignored and our foreign policy is in shambles.
The Holiday Season of good cheer is not the time to introduce austere realism, but here are "thoughts for the thoughtful" that I hope will stimulate intelligent and passionate communication from the grassroots to the "representatives" in Washington, D.C.
- Americans are allergic to socialism. We are not adverse to government activity, but we have an organic allegiance to personal liberty and property.
- Americans do not want to be part of a "global governance" scheme where self-appointment elitists (Soros, et. al.) tell us what we must do as a nation.
- Americans are compassionate. We want to help those in need and the unemployed need assistance and training.
- Americans love the military. Waving flags, wistful strains of Taps, and the courage of women and men stir us deeply. We also want our troops fighting battles they can win. Bring them home with dignity, Mr. President.
- Americans are self-starters. We want equal opportunity, not a system rigged by social engineers.
- Americans are religious, but they do not want a government cowering in the face of radical Islam or regulating what can be said in the public square. We are especially upset that Judaism and Christianity can be excoriated while Islam gets a free pass from the Left.
- American love scientific and technological innovation, but not at the expense of humanitarian principles.
- Americans are learning to leave racism behind and live joyfully with diversity. We do not need to be reminded daily of past transgressions. We want to build a better future.
- Americans believe in traditional marriage. Utah left polygamy behind in order to enter our Union. Redefining this term will ultimately open a Pandora's Box of confusion and state control.
- Americans are tolerant. People of all faiths or none, and people of all orientations can live peaceably with their deepest differences. This is what the First Amendment is about.
- Americans are children of immigrants and we are hospitable. We just want entry and participation to be legal, safe and non-subversive of our national principles. Secure borders and opportunity for all the "huddled masses yearning to be free" are compatible.
- American believe in balancing the checkbook, even though they have been on a credit-card binge for half a century. Hopefully our leaders at City Hall, State capitals and in Congress can set a new tone.
As we welcome longer days, remember the courage of the Maccabees and celebrate the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, let's open our hearts and homes, looking for ways to encourage each other, honor the dignity of each person and create a better future.
