Coming Out

It seems like liberal Americans likes to often say, “that’s why the world hates us” to show our imperfections as a country. I have been in the world more than most of my friends and relatives, and those who say that phrase seem to hate America for than the world does. Talking to natives in Korea, Bali, China, or now here in Vietnam, I see that people still think highly of American opportunities and freedom. They speak of it with a quickened voice and a sparkle that is long gone from those critical of the U.S. As I have said often, it’s not an attitude that you must love Bush and the war and all that goes along with that to be considered a good American. Rather, I wish they didn’t lose the forest for the trees. More time is spent complaining about Bush and Republicans and conservativism which drowns any remaining joy about being an American. This attitude of malcontentness, while at times can initiate change, will not simply dissolve with a new administration. If a Democrat wins in 2008, you’ll still find something to complain about, because there are too many conservatives in Congress. Or the Supreme Court. Or, in local politics. Or on the school boards. Or in your workplace. Or on the radiowaves. Or on Fox. As a conservative, I feel like you will continue your harange until we all are wiped out, and your Master Political Race not only rules, but also is the only voice in this land. I have learned a few things from being around you and reading your articles. The main point I gleaned is this: you do not want me around. Other than a whipping boy or the reason America is in the toilet or why the world hates us, I serve no purpose in your mind.

The irony of this is that I welcome the discussion, and I could be persuaded to vote in your direction on some issues if we had more of a discussion on these topics. I do not vote “conservative” like a well-trained puppy. I welcome the discussion, but you do not want me in. Your starting point is an ad hominim argument. Your complaining interferes with debate and discussion. You exaggerate and caricature. Eye-rolling never convinced anybody of anything.

I met another teacher here whom I’ve grown to greatly respect. Kim is a strong liberal who is critical of Bush, etc. I recently “came out of the closet” to him on my political beliefs. He asked why I never said anything earlier. I told him that when I tell people of my affiliation, I am judged. I want you to know who I am before you put me in your prepackaged container. It’s a lot like skin color. You judge before you know anything about me. So, I’ve adapted to the hostile environment you created by hiding who I am. I gently smile at your jokes and knowing nods and cruel insults. You have made it clear that you are not as “tolerant” as you like to tell people you are. Where is your tolerance now? “Minds Are Like Parachutes…” your bumper sticker says. Where’s that open-mindedness when you are around someone who voted for Bush?

What time does the goose-stepping lessons begin?