I have a plea that may fall on deaf ears, but I will still make it regardless. What distresses me most about modern political discussions is they are not discussions. Too often when an important topic is brought up it devolves into insults and name calling.
In this presidential election we are faced with two incredibly flawed candidates. Those who support either one do so because of a growing worry about the path down which either one may lead us. I believe most of us view this election as one of the most important in our lifetimes. But aren’t they all?
My plea is for people to respect each other’s opinion. We can argue (and I think should argue) about the policy merits of an issue without thinking the other side is evil, misguided or idiots. We are a deeply divided country. Until we take the time to respect the different views of our fellow Americans, then that divide will continue. Abraham Lincoln once said “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” I believe we are on the precipice of gulf much like the Civil War.
It is time for us to stand as Americans and unite in principal, if not in thought. We don’t have to agree, but we must find a way to have faith in our democracy and each other. Our honoring of the principals of the Founding Fathers is what makes us the greatest nation on Earth. It is time we stand together and prove to the world we still do.
Tony Acree 