Free Speech is NOT dead

Teddy Roosevelt, 1912

When my Republican friends learn that my centrist leanings have shifted left, they seem stunned. Though there are a few exceptions, when we get into deep discussions about the issues one thing is clear: they don’t listen, watch or read perspectives on both the left and the right, and haven’t opened themselves to alternative views.

We’re living in a time when gaining perspective is easier to do than ever before. Though I watch very little television, I do seek out Olbermann and O’Reilly (two more differing perspectives one couldn’t find!) and use my remote to move back-n-forth between the two programs. It isn’t as schizophrenic as it sounds since there are engaging aspects of each. Sometimes I record one while watching another and then I see both in their entirety. Often I’ll simply watch clips on YouTube and, of course, howl over those shown on Daily Show or Colbert Report.

I read DailyKos, Michelle Malkin, Huffington Post, PowerLine (notice I go left, right, left, right) to ensure that actual “fair and balanced” perspectives can be gained.

During the runup to the last election, I was more deeply concerned about the direction of our country than at any time in my adult life. My concerns, agitation and anger are 10x what they were then, but I’m still forcing myself to listen to both sides, though I long ago formed my opinion and how I’ll vote.

So if you’re an independent and uncertain this close to the election, it’s your own fault. If you’re staunchly anchored to a liberal or conservative viewpoint, shame on you since this country is at about a 50/50 politically and we’ve got to make this country work together.

So avail yourself of what’s out there and at your fingertips — or don’t whine after the election — since access to perspective is unprecedented in an internet-centric world.