This past week was a tough one for conservative Americans as we witnessed the largest government takeover and expansion since FDR and social security. Congressional representatives from both sides of the isle complained of being victims of hate “crimes,” vandalism, ugly and nasty comments. Some liberals have accused the right of being racists, bullies, uncaring and hate mongers. Some on the right have have indulged in name calling (“it’s a baby killer”), “communists,” and so on. There is a lot of anger in our country today. We see this on the news programs, hear it on talk radio, and read it on Facebook of all places. We’ve all heard it before that it’s taboo and an Emily Post no-no to discuss religion and politics in social situations. Of course that was long before social networking like Facebook.
I’ve been asked “where is this anger coming from?” So I’m trying to think through this question. Why are people angry at our politicians? Why are we angry with each other? Is there in fact increased anger today or is it more in plain sight because of increased visibility created by the blogosphere, the internet, success of talk radio, and of course FB?
I am very concerned anytime government expands and creates a larger dependent population. I don’t “hate” anyone but I do hate high taxes. It robs me of my hard earned money and ultimately the more taxes I pay, the less I have to spend on manufactured goods, home improvements, travel, entertainment, and savings. Increased taxes results in less job creation. And where do the taxes go? I posted a comment earlier this week asking if anyone could name a single entitlement managed by the government, funded by tax payers that was doing a good job. There is none. Why would anyone believe this entitlement is any different? I’m angry because this is not the hope and change promised. Obama never crossed the isle as a senator (for a full 18 months) and he has shown so far the same partisan politics. We were promised by Obama that “all this will be seen on C Span,” which was a lie. This bill was passed with sleaze, deals, and largely behind closed doors. Is this the political transparency Obama promised? Have you heard Obama speak lately? Can any objective listener say that he doesn’t sound divisive and angry?
I’m angry that people apparently don’t understand what debt is and at citizens who have little concept of “pay as you go.” It’s a simple concept, balance your checkbook. Someone has to pay for government services but we hear little about how things will be paid for.
The liberals I’ve spoken with are still mad at Bush/Cheney. They refuse to place any blame for problems of the past year on Obama or the Democratic leadership (Reid and Pelosi) who, by the way have been in power for several years now.
Yes there is anger. Political and Religious beliefs go deep into the heart and soul of people. Individuals dig into their beliefs and refuse to listen and learn from each other. When this happens, pride slips in and prevents us from seeing the “big picture.” In this case, I believe the “big picture” is the growth, protection, and success of The United States of America, the greatest nation on earth.
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