Voltaire said it best: “I may not agree with what you say, but I would die for your right to say it.”
This notion is at the very core of our nation: The right of dissent. At the heart of this philosophy is the very essence of free speech.
Journalists stand on the blood of the martyrs who have secured this precious freedom. Through their sacrifices they built a solid national foundation, understanding that “a house divided cannot stand.”
These are uncertain times. Some believe the previous administration has done harm to this nation. Others find themselves deeply concerned with the new directions the nation is taking. They fundamentally oppose excessive deficit spending, which they find alarming.
All have an unalienable right to their personal perspective. So regardless of our political affiliations, we must show that we are a tolerant people.
As Gen. Colin Powell said, “Free speech is intended to protect the controversial and even outrageous word; and not just comforting platitudes too mundane to need protection.”
I recent weeks, our letters to the editor have revealed the deep divide that exists in our nation. This newspaper understands, and encourages differing political opinions. But please, keep comments targeted to subject matter. Do not let passions spill over into accusatory language, or worse, threatening behavior. That is not the American way.
Sure, we could all duke it out in a no-holes-barred national fist fight – arguments always beget arguments. We could engage in endless debate with no agreement, but in point of fact, little is accomplished in this manner.
If readers have differing opinions, we welcome them — with one caveat — make your arguments constructive. Try to win others to your belief system with principled persuasion, rather than personally vindictive rhetoric. Differing views are best represented with the weight of reason, delivered with a healthy dose of compassion. Understand that those with differing opinions have a Constitutionally-guaranteed right to freedom of expression. If you wish to take issue with an opinion, clearly express your views, and why you believe as you do.
And please, never accost someone publicly, or privately, for a difference of political ideology.
Former President Ronald Reagan and the late U.S. House Speaker, Tip O’Neill, had virtually noting in common politically. But they were wise enough to check their politics at the door at day’s end. Politics aside, they found they made fast friends.
A person is more than their political ideology. People are three-dimensional and complex, with good and bad qualities.
We would submit that the Constitution is bigger than any one President or any collected Congress. It survives, endures and stands on its own merits. It has survived bigger challenges than those it now faces, and it will likely survive these difficult times, as well.
At the end of the day, what the politically passionate often forget — on both sides of the isle — are three simple words — the most important words of all…
“We the people…”
Beyond voting, we are all somewhat limited in what we can do to impact day-to-day policy decisions in Washington, D.C. This newspaper would suggest that letters and e-mails to your respective representatives are a good expression of political preference. And yes, constructive letters to the editor area also a fine participatory forum, but try not to personalize your criticisms. Not only is it a matter of taking the ethical high ground, but newspapers can face liability issues if personalized attacks on private citizens are not caught during the editing process. Politicians, however, are fair game.
Ours is a community of compassion. On Lake Travis, we know what it is to roll up our sleeves and work for the greater good.
It is safe to say we can all agree that these are troubled times. There are needs all around us that demand addressing. So we can always do something that can make a difference right here at home. We are, as one wise person in our community recently said, “Volunteer, Texas.”
That is a moniker we can be proud of.
We are all neighbors, so let us embrace that most noble of notions. It is the most American of qualities.