Political Pet Peeve

Editor's Note: I am not going to make this a political rant of raw, epic anger. I promise. There is an issue that I feel very strongly about right now, and I thought I'd take a moment to address it. Please don't set fire to my house.

So, friends, it is a politically hot time right now. If we're being honest, it's been a politically hot time for about 8 years exactly (once this Friday rolls around). One thing that has gotten scary about the political landscape is the increasingly personal nature of the rhetoric--with both sides of the aisle demonizing one another and giving the general perspective to the American people that these differences are going to pull us apart.

I think this unnecessary drama needs to stop. Pronto.

America is filled with many people of differing backgrounds and opinions, and that is what I love about this country. We don't have to agree--in fact, it's great that we don't. Personally, I love it when an intelligent person disagrees with me. If we meet on a polite debating ground, we both come away having learned something. Even with differing perspectives, there are precious acres of common ground we must find together.

The politics of invective must end. I'm sorry, but I can not respect the views of those who have no apparent respect for others thoughts or their right to think them. That is not democracy. I'm actually in favor of partisan politics--political parties are good! A multiple-party system makes sure that the minority's opinion is always heard. And as a lifelong holder of minority opinions, I appreciate that.

However, there has to be a firm base-line of respect. There has to be.

So, my political pet peeve:

I don't care what your opinion of President Obama is. I really don't. He is our president, and we as Americans should respect the highest elected office a person can attain in this country. If you disagree with his policies or viewpoint, that is your undisputed right. But, please show respect for the office. Don't refer to him as Obama--it is disrespectful. Don't refer to him as "that man"...that is disrespectful and ridiculous. To be quite honest, I disagreed with most of President Bush's positions, and I was outright enraged by some of his actions. But, I referred to him as President Bush because I think the debate platform should have some class...especially in today's climate. I respect the office, and frankly, any person who attains this great office deserves my respect. It's a tremendous accomplishment, one worthy of respect.

Are you worried about what messages your children are being given at school and in the media? Fine...there's plenty out there to worry about. However, a child that is raised in a house where respect is a valued attribute learns to respect others. That is an important step in making our future better for those who are to follow.

And just to set the record straight, I am not a Communist, despite what some of you have said to my face. Ridiculous. I am an American, a Democrat, and a patriot. I love this country that allows me to reach the greatest of my potential, and I will defend her dignity against those who say she is dying. The debate may be full of invective, but God willing, our union will remain strong.

God bless you, and God Bless America.