Here
in Texas, as well as in other predominantly conservative regions of the United
States, the term “liberal” is equal to demonic.
Personally, I consider myself a political and social moderate – which,
to most conservatives – still means liberal.
Anything to the slightest left of the small-minded rhetoric of
right-wing, Judeo-Christian ideology is blasphemously liberal. But, as you surely know by now, I deplore
being placed in boxes to suit other people’s needs and desires. Those who have dared to always end up with a
rectal thermometer-style rebuke from me.
Their rules don’t apply to me.
But,
for the past 30 years, liberals have allowed themselves to be defined by the
opposition. They’ve hidden their true
sentiments about politics and social order within the lockboxes of their
minds. Outspoken liberals have been
relegated to the coastal U.S. and urban America. Thus, they are viewed as elitists and
globalists; cretins who dismiss the notion of “American exceptionalism”
(whatever the hell that’s supposed to mean).
In
truth, liberal means educated and open-minded; compassionate and
understanding. I’m steadfast in my own
outlook and opinions. Overall, I’m just
left of the center, which – again – means extremist, bleeding-heart,
bed-wetting liberal to the right-wingers.
They can call me whatever name they wish, if it makes them feel
empowered in their MINI Cooper of a mind.
I’ve endured worst name-calling grade school.
But,
if being liberal means…
- I believe true freedom begins
with free speech and the right to vote and not with a gun.
- I believe the United States was
founded on religious freedom and separation of church and state and not
Judeo-Christian beliefs.
- I don’t believe White males have
all the answers.
- Europe is not the foundation of
civilization.
- I read more than the Christian
Bible and a TV guide.
- Men and women possess different
attributes, but are still equal
- The human race is really the only
race on Earth.
- There is life beyond this planet.
- Industrial enterprises don’t have
the right to profitably pollute the environment.
- Queer people aren’t diabolically
dangerous.
…then
you can call me a liberal. I call myself
a human being with my own thoughts and opinions. And I don’t have to run any of these by other
folks, just to get their approval.
Chief Writing Wolf 