John McCain, once again, demonatrates why I liked him. Having met him, having done his make-up for CNN and MSNBC, having witnessed his kindness to his staff ( a must in my mind to demonstrate true character), and his kindness to a “common” make up artist, I feel like he has earned my respect again.
From an op-ed in the Washington Post:
President Obama gave a terrific speech Wednesday night. He movingly mourned and honored the victims of Saturday’s senseless atrocity outside Tucson, comforted and inspired the country, and encouraged those of us who have the privilege of serving America. He encouraged every American who participates in our political debates – whether we are on the left or right or in the media – to aspire to a more generous appreciation of one another and a more modest one of ourselves.
I believe, what Moonhowler and I have been trying to convey, is that although we cannot and should not assess blame, we can look inward and wonder, how our words, and how are actions, can be better, can rise above the anger.
I disagree with many of the president’s policies, but I believe he is a patriot sincerely intent on using his time in office to advance our country’s cause. I reject accusations that his policies and beliefs make him unworthy to lead America or opposed to its founding ideals. And I reject accusations that Americans who vigorously oppose his policies are less intelligent, compassionate or just than those who support them.
He goes onto say being respectful is a goal, not always an achievable one, but one we can, and should strive for.
The suggestion that disagreement cannot our should not be spirited is not realistic, nor does John McCain imply that is our end goal, but I believe when we call for civility, we can still call for vigorous factual debates, without suggesting your “opponent is the devil incarnate”, “a traitor”, or any other pejorative !
