I thoroughly enjoyed the chat yesterday. Besides getting to know everyone better (some, too much LOL) I learned something very important. We are all here for the same purpose, to bring back conservatism back to the GOP. What I realized though, is that we are all different. Our viewpoints take many different shapes and sizes. There is no one size fits all when it comes to conservatism. Some of the topics we came across last night was the importance of chocolate, and how to correctly say you all. Since we were surrounded by southerners, ya'll seemed to be the consensus. A few of the more important ones were the legalization of drugs, and the auto industry buyout. There were some really good debates with many varying opinions. I've always been rather stubborn when it comes to my opinions, (as some of you know) but what I have come to realize is that if you don't open up your mind you will never grow and mature as a person.
We've had a few people that have taken issues with the fact that opinions are like....well you know the saying. For the first time, I am actually thankful for all the different viewpoints presented. I've realized that to accomplish our goals we need to open our minds and really listen to opposing viewpoints. In the end, they might still be dead wrong....... but it will only strengthen our views and opinions, and if we come out with just one thing that we not have thought of then we are the better person for it. We need to respect the differences among us, and unite in the things that we have in common.
We are here to debate, discuss, and pursue the true definition of conservatism and only through that, can we accomplish our true purpose, bringing conservatism back to the GOP.
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My dear Jenn, you have touched on something that I think is extrmely important to accomplishing the goals that all of us share.
We know there are numerous factions within the GOP and each one of them has a particular issue of emphasis that is the most important to them. It has resulted in a fragmented party that spends as much time fighting within as it does outside. We aren't getting any traction this way.
The entire second paragraph is important. Opening our minds and listening to all points is something everyone says but no one really does! I admit I am guilty of it at times, because debating and arguing is fun...
To move forward and find those areas where each faction can agree, coming together, moving forward on those issues....then we can argue over all of the various small things.
I hope that everyone will continue to find this a great place for open minded thought and true conservative thought...
"I've always been rather stubborn when it comes to my opinions..."
As are we all.
I like to ask people to give me a list of the opinions they hold that they think are wrong.
Then I ask, "If you think they are wrong, why do you hold them?"
They always look at me strangely.
As do most.
I agree. Except when I don't. :)
BTW, was I the person you got to know TOO well? :)
I wish that time would allow me to participate in the chat but alas it does not. But it sounds as if you had a very good discussion.
I have found in my experience that when one listens, especially to a liberal that one simple question is all that is needed in order to find where someone stands and whether that individual is either a follower or one who thinks on their own.
Thst simple question is , "why ?"
Libs usually get extremely flustered and follow the usual talking points before getting angry and lashing out.
Conservative in most cases are able to articulate what they beleive and why, in detail.
While ,like you mentioned Robert, there is some infighting within the GOP the core of the party is still sound and strong. The problem is that those who are the leaders and the elected in most cases are at odds with the majority of the rank and file and that is where the contentions lies.
Stubbornness in our beliefs is a good thing but the necessity to being open to others opinions also allows us the patience to put up with opposing views as well as the ability to handle an intelligent discussion which very well may have the effect of convincing opposing or different views into understanding and/or accepting our own.
BTW, I would also like to suggest that CC get involved with Blog Talk Radio. This avenue opens a great opportunity for conservatives and listenership in that venue is very strong. If you would like a more detailed idea of how well it works e-mail me at theliberalslies@yahoo.com
I would also like to set up interviews with all or each of you on my show. I have already had Gayle several times and getting conservative views from different areas of the country also helps to show how strong conservatism is.
E-mail me if you would. Thanks!
Patrick....no, that was Chris! LOL
He can dish it out, so can I! :-)
Ken, Jenn and I have already discussed hosting a show, and we are just getting things established here before we give it a run.
I am going to email you right now...I am interested in the deails. I already have us a Blogtalk radio account set up.
Patrick, can't remember what you did the other night? :)
Now I feel all misunderstood. :(
Awww, Patrick it's okay, we still love you! :-)
I'm in the south, but I don't say "Y'all"! I guess that's because I'm not actually from the South. My husband and I just adopted Texas as our home state.
No, Jennifer, we are definitely not all alike, but I do believe our values are similar. One of these days when I have a lot more time, I'll write a post on what conservatism means to me, but I'll need the time to do it justice.
Y'all love me long time? :0
Great post, Jenn... sometimes the simplest things such as the perspective of like-minded views, are the first casualties of ideological battles.... well said!
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