The internet is an imperfect medium. When you are being heartfelt and earnest -- well, sometimes it's hard to convey that intent, even with a slew of emoticons. :)
So I fear that some folks are convinced that (esp'ly when it comes to politics) I am always a blustering blowhard. But is that fair? And isn't fairness one of the most important things to strive for in the political arena?
It seems too many people have shut out anyone professing a conservative point of view, equating them with the likes of Rush Limbaugh and company. Now, sincerely I ask, have you ever thought that about me when talking in person about anything non-political? Or when commiserating about issues on which I lean to the left?
Then why treat me otherwise when I am expressing a conservative opinion? I have been called arrogant, a sleazy liar and told that what I have to say is "crap." This when simply offering a dissenting viewpoint, while backing it up reputable sources.
Why is trying to correct misinformation viewed as bullying or bloviating?
All the emoticons in the world won't always convey a writer's true intent.
Yes, I know, I have this reputation as "thinking I am always right." Well, don't we all? Or more accurately, shouldn't we all? Shouldn't we all be very sure of what we are saying?
In response to being teased as a kid, I liked getting 100% on tests. I liked getting the positive attention from adults. But that was no accident. I studied hard, striving for perfection.
It's no different today. I know I'm going to be challenged on every political stance I take, and so I do my homework. Time constraints with a busy family mean I won't be as perfect as I once was, but I still aim for accuracy.
And thankfully I have a husband who does the bulk of my economic studying for me. He's as ethical as can be, and knows his reputation is at stake. He makes sure he can back up what he writes about, and answers every challenge from the likes of the Washington Post and The New York Times.
So I guess what I'm asking for here is please -- give me the benefit of the doubt. When I say something, please don't assume a shrill posture.
This is me. I know you and love you all. Can't we just talk about these things?
