Yesterday, we saw an example of what the vitriolic tone of the political arena in the US has created. The consequences of which are tragically devastating. I am of the opinion that if you choose to be one of those in the media or politics who tries to breed hatred and discourse in such a flippant manner as Fox News, Sara Palin, Sharon Angle, and others have, that they should be held responsible for any consequences that come from it.
Yes, I believe in free speech. But the example I kept thinking about yesterday was how freedom of speech does not allow for people to yell fire in a theater. (One of the examples I still remember hearing as a child). And the reason is, because it can put lives in danger, much like the vitriol in today's political arena has. Any politician or media personality who played any part in yesterday's tragedy, should be admonished by their supporters at a minimum. Anyone who supports their vial hatred towards another American is a part of the problem. We can accomplish great things in this country when we pull together. We can cause great discourse when we don't.
I think we all, each and every one of us, need to make sure that we encourage healthy and constructive dialog amongst ourselves regarding politics. What I've seen in the past decade is a push to force everyone to think as a few do. It's not only wrong, it's unAmerican. It doesn't have a place here. This country was founded on the principles of people being able to have their own thoughts, and to decided not only what religion they would practice, but whether or not they would practice any religion at all. Many have forgotten that, as they feel their beliefs should be the beliefs of all.
I hope that now is the time that a lot of people feel it's time to heal, and not continue the hatred that has been spreading so rampantly. These next few weeks will determine what direction this country is heading, and I can only hope that the direction is towards healing, and not towards more death and destruction.
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