General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Do not ever make the mistake of thinking that the Republicans are anything but the enemy. [View all]davidthegnome
(2,983 posts)I'm going to have to respectfully disagree. In ideological matters, I am almost always in opposition to most republicans. This does not mean that they are evil or uncaring - as I know it can often seem to many of us here. Some republicans really are creeps, as are some democrats. Most of us though, are relatively decent people overall who are trying to get by in a confusing world, in a modern age of extreme stress... the conservative ideology has appeal in large part because it is so black and white, there is precious little room for grey.
While I may argue, often and loudly with Republicans who I feel are ignorant, that does not make them enemies. Some of my best friends have views severely different from mine both politically and ideologically. It has often been through debate that we have come to understand each other better, respect each other more as human beings. For the most part I find their beliefs inhumane, selfish and often absurdly cruel... but I believe it is due to ignorance and not malice. They do as they believe is right, just as we do.
We are all in this together - ultimately understandings must be reached. Ultimately we must learn to respect each other and find common ground from which to build. The alternative is almost unthinkable. Another civil war? Ideological warfare in the streets? No. Somehow we have to overcome our differences so that we can all strive for a better Country and a better world. It will be a slow process that should prove educational and beneficial to both sides... but we must do something enormously difficult for this to occur.. we must attempt to swallow our pride.