Word

As turmoil surrounds issues, organizations and leaders, we are reminded that our freedom is there for our taking. The problem might be that some take more than others. I have always felt that a good seat in the neutral section is a good place to ride out the storms, while friends are in the middle of a controversy. Fortunately, diversity in ideas creates different ideas for the future. So maybe, just maybe, all the time bickering and laying blame will not be completely wasted. Unfortunately, when we raise our flags against one another our strength weakens and it becomes sad to see that even the smallest of groups can't find the time to break bread and work things out.


I like to think that I am an even-minded and decent person. That said, for most of my life I have tried hard not burn bridges, to make friends and network in a way that is kind and helpful to others - not just myself, I have eagerly tried to be involved, informed, and productive when it came to my community and my neighbors. To me that is what it means to be an American. I don't think it has anything to do with what type of home you have, what kind of car you drive, if you are a VIP, or a member of the hoi polloi - where I am usually found. Being an American should not involve being judgmental, materialistic, anti-inclusive or quick to lay blame. If that is what it means to enjoy our freedoms then I think we have misused our own powers to create something that is ugly and certainly undignified.

People disagree - people think differently and individually. That is the very reason that you can drive down the street and see brick homes, stone homes, yellow, green and white homes. That is why there are malls and all sorts of shops, because people like different things. I like that and I will always stand by people that say: " Hey I think it needs to be done this way!" So long as they are willing to meet half way on the project. However, what I will not do is sling mud, lay blame, draw attention to the flaws of others, or slam people, issues, organizations and leaders. There is a graceful way to do everything and it pains me to see it when people that mess that up. I wince at the thought of crass and inconsiderate behavior taking itself to public stages. So much so that it makes me not want to be a member of the audience.

So here I am, little "ole" Me - neutral again…for now.