By Greg Richards
Why did it take until 100 years after the Civil War, until 1964, to pass a Civil Rights Act? Because the Democratic Party would not take its boot off the neck of the black man until Martin Luther King made the black vote a political force. Dedicated to being in power above all else, the Democrats had to make a U-turn on their race policy in the 1960s and join the Republicans in passing the Civil Rights Act because they realized that after the black vote was counted, they were not going to win any more national elections without it.
But there was a problem. How was the Democratic Party going to overcome its deplorable record on race? It was the party of slavery, segregation, lynching, and the Klan.
What to do now? Get back in front of history with comprehensive rather than palliative welfare — the Great Society. The Democratic Party would become the friend of the black community by giving it things it wasn’t asking for, but were hard to resist.
But there is a big problem with comprehensive welfare: it destroys the role of men in the community and this was disproportionately true of the black community. There is nothing worse than taking away a person’s mission in life, making that person unnecessary and thus unwanted. That is evil. And today we see the results of that evil.
Single mothers can cope, but the family as a force in the community cannot flourish without men as a responsible presence. Without men, there is nobody to show boys how to behave, have someone to look up to and emulate, to set them straight when they go off the path, to show them how to be men. This has been true of every civilization in history.
But over the last 50 years, the Democratic Party wiped out the black family by wiping out the role of black men in order to stay in power. The black family had withstood 250 years of slavery and 100 years of Jim Crow, but was destroyed by 50 years of Liberalism. In 1960, the illegitimacy rate in the black community was 30%. Now it is 78%. And as Star Parker has pointed out, there is nothing unique about blacks. Whites are now where blacks were in 1960 and are on the same path.
What is the result of this devastation? There are now two Americas — Welfare America and Enterprise America.
The Democratic Party is the party of Welfare America and the Republican Party is the part of Enterprise America. Enterprise America is that part of America that is hands-on in its affairs. That does not mean the top managers of big business, which either out of necessity or out of temperament, in many cases cozy up to Big Government. There is also the billionaire effect, where billionaires, unaware of the wellspring of their own success, do not preach what they practice and support Welfare America for reasons of social standing.
Let’s compare the cultural attributes of Enterprise America and Welfare America.
Give us Men!
Men-from every rank,
Fresh and free and frank;
Men of thought and reading,
Men of light and leading,
Men of loyal breeding,
The nation’s welfare speeding;
Men of faith and not of fiction,
Men of lofty aim in action;
Give us Men-I say again,
Give us Men!
Give us Men!
Strong and stalwart ones;
Men whom highest hope inspires,
Men whom purest honor fires,
Men who trample self beneath them,
Men who make their country wreath them
As her noble sons,
Worthy of their sires;
Men who never shame their mothers,
Men who never fail their brothers,
True, however false are others:
Give us Men-I say again,
Give us Men!
Give us Men!
Men who, when the tempest gathers,
Grasp the standard of their fathers
In the thickest fight;
Men who strike for home and altar,
(Let the coward cringe and falter),
God defend the right!
True as truth the lorn and lonely,
Tender, as the brave are only,
Men who tread where saints have trod,
Men for Country, Home- and God:
Give us Men! I say again- again-
Give us Men!
A number of times I’ve heard Conservative leaders indicate a dire need to educate the American public about the current status of the political system in the US. The Party of JFK, for instance, is not Obama’s party. Neither is the party of Sen. McCain, the party of most Republicans. Party lines have been skewed … or blurred … or even erased in favor of self-interest.
In light of this mass confusion or mis-identification, some questions are listed below to clarify the mis-information espoused by the media and those pushing to deceive the American people for selfish gain.
So, without further ado, YOU might really be a Conservative if …
you think our federal, state, and local governments ought to be required to formulate a budget and stick to it … Period! (just like you and me!)
you understand government is hired by the People, and must answer to the People for their policies, decisions, and actions.
you know ALL humans are greedy, not just the rich.
you think a “Fair Tax” (or flat tax) is the most equitable way to tax the nation. It’s simple and fair!
you there are many types of intelligence, most of which can not be well measured!
you think any individual’s greatest personal treasure is his/her dignity.
you understand that every human being needs a purpose, a reason to live, and that most find that in work and family.
you know that the earth has “seasons” for various things, and that while the earth is actually cooling, it has nothing to do with “greenhouse gases,” which are actually Carbon dioxide – what you and I exhale and what green plants ingest. You also understand that things like “green” electric cars must be plugged in, and therefore actually use MORE fossil fuel while claiming to be “green friendly.” It’s all a scam!
you appreciate the benefits of living in a nation enriched by a multitude of cultures imported by legal immigrants.
you know Jesus taught “personal responsibility,” not “personal entitlement!”
you wonder where all the bra-burning feminists are when it comes to the growing college interest in radical Islam that enslaves women.
you favor the Constitutional rights of the individual over the assumed “good” of the “collective.”
you think greed has corrupted corporate America, but also government and the Unions, and only a free market can hope to counter greed’s effects.
you know that even when it’s rainy and overcast, the sun is still shining!
you understand a universal moral code is necessary for a civilization to thrive.
you remember the days when neighbors actually knew one another, helped one another, and accepted our differences, instead of suspecting them of any number of crimes.
you understand that “political correctness” is just another word for censorship!
you’ve been a convenience store clerk, a school teacher, a soldier, a mother, and never been on welfare even though it might be more … politically correct.
you think most Hollywood celebs would be much better actors (and people) if they remembered what it felt like to struggle.
you question the message of both Lenin and Lennon!
you understand that making welfare a lifestyle is not HELP, but just another name for slavery.
you believe in the “Hand up,” but not the “Hand out!” For something to have value, it must cost something.
you want our federal government to STOP sending money and weapons to those who are NOT our allies.
you believe all individuals are created equal under the Law, that each individual has the right to pursue his/her life according to his/her dreams, values, and goals as long as they don’t infringe someone else’s right to the same.
you believe we are all different, uniquely gifted and valuable to society.
you believe it is impossible to create an education system that will produce only “successful” students.
you adhere to the right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.
you are willing to fight to maintain the Right to bear arms in defense of yourself, your property, and your Constitution.
you think education’s role is to equip students to consider options and think for themselves rather than program them how to think.
you think the purpose of government is to facilitate the ability of the People to pursue their individual life, liberty, and happiness.
By Arnold Ahlert Why conservatives may be more vulnerable than ever to persuasion.
“America remains mired in the weakest recovery since WWII. The unemployment rate of 7.4 percent obscures the reality that we have the lowest workforce participation rate since 1978, 75 percent of the jobs created in 2013 are part-time with lower wage levels, and American incomes have declined 4.4 percent since the recovery began in 2009. In short, Americans need jobs. Despite that reality, President Obama is aiming to pursue comprehensive immigration reform, even though it is utterly anathema to the interests of American job-seekers.
“A report issued last summer by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) and Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) reveals that American job-seekers would get hit with a double whammy of lower wages and higher unemployment levels. “Taking into account all of those flows of new immigrants, CBO and JCT expect that a greater number of immigrants with lower skills than with higher skills would be added to the workforce, slightly pushing down the average wage for the labor force as a whole, other things being equal,” the report states. “Although the average wage would be lower than under current law over the first dozen years, the minimum wage would keep the wages of some less skilled workers from falling, dampening businesses’ demand for those workers,” the analysis added.
“Comprehensive immigration reform supporters cling to the one nugget of good news in the report, noting that the CBO estimates a reduction in the federal budget deficit of $175 billion over the first ten years following reform, along with a decrease in the federal deficit by another $700 billion the decade after that. In other words, the federal deficit would be reduced by an average of $43.75 billion per year over 20 years. In March, the Senate adopted its first formal budget in four years. They want to spend $3.7 trillion for 2014. Thus, assuming the CBO numbers are accurate, America would be shaving a grand total of just under 1.2 percent off 2014’s budget total. Since the federal budget has nearly doubled since 2000, the ongoing savings over the course of two decades would amount to little more than a rounding error.
“Furthermore, assuming the CBO’s calculations are accurate is a big “if.” According to a devastating report by the Heritage Foundation, comprehensive immigration would cost taxpayers $6.3 trillion in new spending on entitlements and social programs over a 50 year period. Heritage contends that $9.4 trillion in government benefits included in the Gang of Eight bill, namely Social Security, Medicare, social programs like Medicaid and food stamps, and coverage under Obamacare, would be offset by only $3.1 trillion in taxes paid by those who receive de facto amnesty.
“The business community isn’t buying Heritage’s contentions. As a result, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, along with the nation’s leading trade associations, will be backing Republicans who favor immigration reform when they run against Republican candidates who don’t in upcoming primaries. In Michigan, Reps. Justin Amash and Kerry Bentivolio will be targeted. In Alabama, business groups hope to undermine the candidacy of Dean Young, whose grassroots campaign propelled him into a Republican Party runoff with former state Senator Bradley Byrne. Business groups may also support Republican incumbent Rep. Mike Simpson, who faces a tea party challenger who pushed Simpson to embrace defunding ObamaCare.” Read MORE
Meanwhile, back on the ranch … or at the local McDonalds, min wage earners, prodded by Unions, STRIKE for $15/hr wages, so they can buy shoes for their children. Strangely, across the nation, the theme of shoes for kids was part of the “random response” from striking workers. Not one mention of greater educational opportunities, or trade school options, or maybe just looking for another job for increased wages. Strange, huh?
What do you suppose it all means?
First, Obamacare is thrust upon us. The White House’s attempt to impose federal healthcare on 300 million adults, plus unknown numbers of illegals, will fundamentally change the relationship between government and people to sovereign and subject! In addition, it will flood the healthcare system with needless tests and procedures for routine “hemorrhoids and hangnails.” (Just spend an hour or two in any ER and see who comes in and why!) Add in the flood of healthcare professionals leaving the field, and you have hospitals, doctors, and clinics overrun and overwhelmed and therefore unable to properly tend to the needed healthcare concerns to those truly in need of care.
A government run website costing $635 million launched 1 Oct is still not working properly on 23 Oct. Worse yet, almost any IT tech worth his salt could probably build a WORKING site for about $100k. And worst of all, NO SECURITY!!! We’re asked, if we manage to get through, to input all kinds of personal information with no safegaurds in place. No background checks are done on those working with our personal information. It’s a security nightmare!
Second, the White House and Congress conspire to grant “AMNESTY” to the hundreds of thousands of illegals already in our nation enjoying FREE food stamps, FREE housing, FREE college tuition (or reduced), FREE “obama-phones” … all funded graciously by you and me, citizen tax-payers!
Do you suppose it’s FAIR that these illegals be allowed to stay at the expense of those who waited LAWFULLY for their turn?
Do you suppose it’s FAIR that these illegals reap benefits they never paid into, again, at the expense of those legitimately in need?
If this White House is all about FAIRNESS, when will he be FAIR to the working men and women of America? When will the White House and Congress strip away the crippling regulations and restrictions and allow AMERICANS to do what we do best … CREATE WEALTH???
Whether it is the nation as a whole, or my little corner of it (family), the challenge is the same. IDENTITY!
Many of us have been quite active over the last few weeks working toward the defunding of Obamacare. It didn’t matter that logic was on our side. It didn’t matter that the American people were on our side. The media was not, and perhaps, never will be. So … now what?
I saw a discussion on facebook about the creation of a third party. The poster stated, correctly in my view, that the Republicans have left a large segment of their constituents behind and become the old Whig Party, denying the Conservative stand of most Republicans. His claim is that the media ignores or tarnishes anyone who disagrees, and this prohibits contrary views from being part of the public domain. The IRS scandal (which has been quickly pushed out of the headlines) is clear evidence of this “silencing” of views that oppose the President.
The question remains, how do we, the opposition, move into the next election cycle without faith in our leaders? How can we change our leadership? It’s not so much the fiscal issues that divide, but the social issues. Abortion, even after 40 years, is still as hot a topic as it was back when Roe v Wade went to the Supreme Court. In addition, we have now the gay marriage issue which divides us and even gun control.
I don’t know if a third party WIN is possible, but I do know that Americans have to make a decision, the sooner the better, concerning morality and civility. We must decide WHO we want to be. Are we going to be the compassionate, helpful, generous, and kind people we have been until this current President took the reins? Or are we going to continue down the road of hate, destruction, resentment, his false notion of “fairness,” and poverty?
The political actions of this administration are very simply make clear Obama’s hatred for everything America has represented for over 200 years. And, while some people declare him incompetent, he has succeeded beyond expectation in the destruction of America’s economy, America’s middle income industry, and small business. He has brought a depth of jealousy and greed between socio-economic levels that never existed before his regime. He has also brought about a resurgence in racial tensions as he drives false wedges between races and other social differences. We now experience the lowest morale within the military ever known resulting in unprecedented numbers of suicides and untreated PTSD among Veterans. In short, in the 5 years of his presidency so far, he has succeeded in turning Americans against one another in record numbers simply for his (and his party’s) benefit. It’s all about CONTROL!
The Gun laws are all about CONTROL!
Obamacare (The un-Affordable Healthcare Act) is all about CONTROL!
The Global-warming myth is all about CONTROL!
On and on the list grows while the people of this great nation ignore the outrageous scandals, the dismantling of our 235+ yr old brilliant CONSTITUTION, and generally surrender more and more CONTROL to the government. If only those who have sworn to “support and defend” our CONSTITUTION for ALL enemies, both “foreign and domestic,” maybe America could self-correct.
Calling on BOTH Democrats and Republicans
to uphold their Oath of Office
I don’t really understand this mindset. Does it really feel that good to sit around and watch “Let’s Make a Deal,” and collect welfare? Or are we too busy working 2 or 3 part-time jobs (since Obamacare is moving quickly to eliminate our 40 hr week)? Have we all pulled back into our shells in the hope the bad behavior of our leaders will just go away? Or maybe their bad behavior justifies ours?
If we want our “Representatives” to be honest, WE must be honest!
If we want our Leaders to be KIND, WE must be kind!
If we want our elected officials to respect LIFE, WE must respect LIFE!
We must demand integrity in ourselves first, then we can search for it in those who wish to represent us. We must treat others as we want to be treated if we want our leaders to work together in spite of differing ideals. We must respect our differences if we hope our representatives in government will consider all sides of a debate. It’s up to us! Don’t you see? This is exactly why our Constitution is so BRILLIANT!!! Ultimately, the POWER is in OUR hands. Over the past few decades, we have abdicated our responsibility and surrendered our POWER, but it’s TIME to take it back, don’t you think? The ball is in our court, so to speak. What will we do with it? Will we mature and take responsibility for our lives, our fortunes, and our honor? Or will we continue to yield our Liberty in exchange for leisure?
Perhaps a little reminder of the COST of FREEDOM will help to inspire us.
The Americans Who Risked Everything
Maybe a reality check will help us appreciate the VALUE of FREEDOM.
Lately, I have tried diligently to pull back from the political aspect of what is happening in America. There is no political solution to the mess we have made of this nation. None! Yes, we might change one or two people, but can we change the nation?
As I look around, and I do look around all the time, I see a nation of people (myself included) who are so comfortable in our circumstances, even though they aren’t perfect, that we exclude God. It isn’t until something goes wrong, until we get sick, or are fired, or wreck our car … until we are faced with a difficult, seemingly impossible challenge that many of us turn to God and blame him for our situation. “Why me, God? If you love me so much, why have you allowed this cancer, or this unemployment, or this sheriff’s sale, or?” “If you are so great, why are there poor people? Why do children die from dreadful illnesses? Why … Why … Why?”
A man and a few of his friends once lived in a nation conquered by another. The “enemy” king, as he sought to establish his counselors and advisers, looked for truth, wisdom, and understanding to do what was best for his people, rather than only his friends or those who blindly agreed with him. He interviewed thousands of young people, regardless of their nationality or heritage, including the young man and his friends. He narrowed the field, and then made an impossible request to the finalists. He had a dream that troubled him, so he asked these would-be advisers to tell him not just the interpretation of the dream, but the dream itself. The candidates begged and pleaded with the king to simply allow them to interpret his dream, but the king stood his ground knowing they would simply try to appease him. No, he wanted them to give him the dream, then interpret it, or they would be slain. The young man and his friends understood only God could see into the thoughts of men, so they sought God in the matter of the king’s dream. God answered and showed the young “enemy” the king’s dream which he then told the king and received great honor. But the young man and his friends thanked God for caring for them, in spite of their precarious situation.Daniel 1-2, my paraphrase
For false christs and false prophets will rise and
show great signs and wonders to deceive,
if possible, even the elect. Mt 24: 24
From the Garden of Eden to Washington DC to your home and mine, the love of this world distracts all of us from the Love of God and and deceives us from perceiving the Love of God all around us. Brother and sister argue over inheritance across the nation. Parents and children despair over belongings or lifestyle choices. As believers, our focus SHOULD be set on things above, on allowing God’s character to grow and mature in us, rather than on seeking that next pay raise or mortgage approval.
Whether rich or poor, in America, we ought to be content (Phil 4:12) and GRATEFUL, rather than blame others for our perceived lack. Just because my TV is only 24 inches and not a 55″ flat screen doesn’t mean I lack! Just because my car is 10 yrs old doesn’t mean I lack. Just because I rent and do not own a home, doesn’t mean I lack. Just because I haven’t eaten meat in a month doesn’t mean I lack.
Americans, we have allowed our hearts to become too worldly and tangled up in carnal matters, myself included. Are we too haughty, too intelligent(?) to need God and let Him lead us. Or too sophisticated? or … what?
A God-less people will never thrive or know the Liberties declared by our Founding documents because Liberty issues ONLY from the throne of God. (definition of God is an individual thing). It’s quite amazing to me that we have been brow-beaten into accepting the mandated prayer times for Islam but Christians are not permitted to pray. Students may carry a Koran to school, but not a Bible. It’s no big deal that thousands of CHRISTIANS are being slaughtered in Egypt and Syria by Muslims, but we dare not raise our voice against a culture that has brought NOTHING but hatred, destruction, and bigotry to global civilization since its inception.
We judge rather than seek God. We see what we’re told to see and refuse to see the TRUTH. Our hearts have turned to stone as those in power corrupt our sensibilities calling evil good and good evil. Unless the American people return to God and ask His help in setting America right, we are doomed to reap what we have sown. Destruction.
When has our nation been more greatly divided … ? Hatred and bigotry have issued from THIS administration … regardless of the source. Its not about blame, but about correction! Let’s get back on course and allow one another to WORSHIP as GOD instructs: from our knees!
Engaged or Tuned out:
Who has personal beliefs anymore!
There is mass confusion (and apathy) in America today and a desperate lack of clarity. The definitions of some terms we throw about at random have undergone radical changes in many cases, without the population realizing the degree of change. Liberalism has been defined and redefined in the past decades even more than Conservatism.
Many Americans this week are shocked and disturbed by news of several scandals that have converged on the White House. NEWS FLASH: Each of the current scandals represents the very nature and definition of LIBERALISM. Take some time to read through and digest the comparisons below. Maybe write YOUR choices on a separate sheet of paper or print the page to help better define your personal beliefs.
Constitutional Rights Conservatives: Our Constitution sets the guidelines for our legal structure ad must be supported and defended by the People! The Bill of Rights must be supported even if it offends. If changes need to be made, there is a process to accomplish it legally.
Liberalism: The Constitution is outdated, and the Right to free speech is limited to speech that does not offend. (Political correctness) Liberals support the authority of the President to override Congress as needed, therefore he can secretly authorize wiretapping of journalists or private citizens at random,as he deems necessary.
Size and Scope of Federal Government: Conservatives: Limited federal government with more power given to state and local governments. Less government is better. Wants only necessary regulation of business, economy, and individual lives, resulting in more freedom.
Liberalism: Powerful centralized federal government with limited state and local control. More government is better. Many regulations are necessary to achieve a more fair & just society which is government’s primary role, resulting in less freedom.
Economic Growth Conservatives: Free market economy allows open competition to regulate prices, increase demand, and create jobs.
Liberalism: Government regulation of economy. With the magnitude of regulations, there’s an increased need for “enforcement” jobs in government.
Business Conservatives: Business is good: creates jobs & improves lives. Let free market supply and demand adjust practices and employers and employees determine wages/benefits.
Liberalism: Business is evil: out to exploit employees, environment, and consumers. Needs to be regulated to protect consumers, employees, and the environment. Government regulates employee benefits.
Competition: Winning and Losing Conservatives: Competition is good. There are winners and losers in life, in business, and in school, as well as in sports. Conservatives support the right of every American to succeed and to fail; that ultimately, failure is just as good a “teacher” as success, maybe better.
Liberalism: Competition is unfair, and that allowing failure may damage an individual forever. According to Liberalism, there are no winners, and there are no losers. Employers should fill job slots by first come, first serve since we are all “equal.”
Social demographics:
Conservatives: Society is composed of individuals to be judged on their individual merit. Values individualism, self-reliance, and independence.
Liberals: Sees society as composed of groups: black vs. white, old vs. young, rich vs. poor, male vs. female, gay vs straight, “religious” vs atheists. These groups are pitted against each other. Stirs up racial and class envy and division under the guise of “civil rights.”
Human Rights and Culture: Conservatives: Western cultures are more desirous than others because they aspire toward equal rights (Personal Freedom, Parental rights, Property, Religious, Guns, respect for Life) for each individual under the Law.
Liberalism: All cultures are equal. Can’t pass judgment on any even if they don’t value freedom, rights, and life. Muslim Sharia Law, is a current example. While Shariah contradicts our Constitution, Liberals support the “right” of Muslims to disobey our Constitution in favor of Sharia.
Morality and Faith: Conservatives: God (no specific definition given) is an important part of the moral and cultural heritage of many people groups and bring great richness to any society. Absolute truths, like “The Golden Rule,” guide our American culture. Faith inspires people to strive for self-improvement and character development. Traditional morality, including traditional family, is established by absolute standards of right and wrong.
Liberalism: State is secular (opposed to idea of God and hostile to Christianity). Liberals seek to eliminate references of God through doctrine of separation of church and state. Tolerance of all lifestyles & beliefs except those that hold views liberal leaders consider to be “intolerant.” No absolute standards of right and wrong. Moral relativism is practiced, so breaking International Law by running weapons through the Mexican drug cartels to forward the President’s gun control agenda is fine, and practice for doing the same through the American Consulate in Benghazi via members of Al Qaeda and/or the Muslim Brotherhood through Turkey to Syria is perfectly acceptable. The ENDS justify the MEANS!
Definition of JUSTICE: CONFUSION exists with the many Americans of faith. “Many Christian organizations strongly support social justice. However, this is a trap promoted by liberal Christianity claiming Jesus was a socialist. We are to help the less fortunate but we are not to become the less fortunate in the process. We are to give according to our abilities but social justice violates “thou shall not steal” and takes what is yours.”
Conservatives: Promotes equal justice as stated in The Declaration of Independence of the Thirteen Colonies. Equal justice for each American regardless of race, religion, sexual preference, gender or age is the goal of Conservative justice. Rights under the Law are not the same as condoning various lifestyles that are contrary to biology and history. Legal rights – yes! Moral license – NO!
Liberalism: Promotes social justice, which “is a term describing the redistribution of wealth for the common good of all. However, this comes at the expense of wage earners and liberty by demanding a society to conform. Those who work and have must give to those who don’t work and don’t have. This is the fundamental basis of Marxism and championed by liberal progressives.”
On Parents’ Rights:
Conservatives believe: Families know best how to raise their children. They need to be strengthened and have the right to raise their children the way they want. (homeschooling, discipline) The role of government is to make a number of tools available to parents to aid in the development and education of their children.
Liberals believe: It takes a “village,” rather than a family to raise a child. Families are unable to properly educate and raise their children without the aid of the government, nor should they be asked to do so. The government can do a better job. Cradle to grave involvement is optimal. (see Julia)
Personal Freedom:
Conservatives: Individuals are responsible for themselves, their property and their actions. Individuals are accountable to family and community for their behavior and that of their family members. Crime should be determined and punished equally. Evil exists, and good must fight against it on individual and community levels
Liberals: Society is responsible for individuals. Man is inherently good, and something causes him to do wrong. (People raised in poverty must not be held responsible for anti-social behaviors>) They talk about how we need to change society when someone does wrong. Even terrorists need to be understood. Case in point: Gun control debate. Will taking weapons from law-abiding citizens cause criminals to convert to obeying the law?
Social Welfare: Conservatives: There is a limit to how much can be taken from hard-working people to give to others. Welfare should help people to become independent (not dependent) and given to those truly incapable of taking care of themselves. All able to work ought to be required to do so.
Liberalism: Supports welfare state. Government is morally justified in taking from those that have and giving it to others because people are entitled to basic needs, including housing, food, healthcare, income, etc. even if they are able to work.
Equal opportunity: Conservatives: Equal opportunity without discrimination or preference. Recognizes people make different choices with what they have and that it isn’t government’s role to make things “fair.” While each individual has equal rights under the law, they are not all the same, therefore their goals and dreams, as well as their skills and talents are fundamentally DIFFERENT. Not seeking equal results!
Liberalism: Equal results through such things as quotas, free college, and equal pay for unequal work. Government has to level the playing field in order to have equal opportunity. Seeks equal outcomes.
Taxation: Conservatives: Supports lower taxes for all because people have a right to what they earn. More specifically, many Conservatives support some measure of FLAT TAX which would tax every American the same percentage (not the same amount!), like maybe 15%. So whether a citizen makes 15,000 or 150,000,000, they would pay 15%. Period! Conservatives maintain the Constitution defines the scope and extent of legal taxation.
Liberalism: Supports progressive taxation with high taxes, at first, for the rich in an attempt to equalize incomes through redistribution of earnings. In reality, however, this system penalizes success and discourages innovation or creativity. Liberals believe taxes are needed to support government programs.
Environmental Concerns: Conservatives: People and property rights are more important than environment. Supports conservation and development and use of our natural resources along with the development of green technology by private enterprise and when it is economically feasible and self-sustaining. Opposes cap and trade due to its high cost and negative impact on our businesses and way of life.
Liberalism: Environment more important than people and property rights. Supports rationing and limiting access to natural resources. Focuses on green technology subsidized by the government. Supports cap and trade to redistribute and control energy usage. Also supports the UN Agenda 21 initiative.
The AMERICAN DREAM: Conservatives: Wealth is a reward for hard work, dedication, and perseverance. All have an opportunity to be wealthy (The American dream). Wealth creates a better life for all through entrepreneurship.
Liberalism: Wealth is bad and unfair innately. Individuals are not entitled to work for material gain, only to meet basic needs. Liberal thoughts on wealth and earning promotes class warfare by disparaging wealth and poverty simultaneously. Interesting side note: Nearly ALL true liberals who adhere to to notion of “fair distribution of wealth” are wealthy. What is stopping them from “donating” more of their wealth than required?
National Healthcare (Obamacare): Conservatives: Supports healthcare reform that gives consumers choices.
Liberalism: Supports government takeover of healthcare, eliminating consumers’ choices and decisions.
Judicial Participation:: Conservatives: Judicial restraint with strict interpretation of laws according to the Constitution and original intent.
Liberalism: Judicial activism: enacting social policy changes via court rulings. Constitution is seen as outdated and in need of change.
In search of World Peace: Conservatives: Peace through strength via a strong military. Supports a missile defense system.
Liberalism: Peace through appeasement, cooperation, and understanding others’ views. Dislikes showing and exercising strength. Opposes a missile defense system.
American Sovereignty& Exceptionalism Conservatives: American sovereignty comes before globalism. Conservatives see America as good, but not perfect: the best hope for the world. Conservatives believe in American “Exceptionalism,” that because of the unique liberties established at America’s inception, the American people have accomplished “exceptional” things. America enjoys remarkable innovation, invention, creativity, research and development opportunities. Sees America as flawed: racist, homophobic, imperialistic, sexist, ageist and no better than other countries.
Liberalism: Globalism supersedes American sovereignty. Liberals in cooperation with the UN, seek the bring about the fabled One World Government, uniting all the peoples of the earth under one government, one monetary system, one economy, and one government religion. Fair distribution will bring about this “Utopia.”
Vision for the Future
Liberalism (progressivism) wants to pull us further towards a welfare state with an ever-expanding web of social entitlements and more federal power and control over every aspect of our lives. Liberalism sees a nation of people incapable of solving their problems without the government’s help. Liberalism also wants to reduce American productivity and wealth to that of many other nations, thus equalizing the balance of power globally.
Conservatism believes a large and powerful federal government limits personal freedom. Conservatism seeks to stop the growing entitlement programs, encourage individual responsibility, and return Constitutionally mandated power to the states. Conservatism sees a nation of people capable of solving their own problems with minimal government help or intrusion, as long as the people are moral and free.
If you are still unclear as to what the differences between the philosophies are consider this:
If either Party or philosophy held all 100 US Senators, all 435 Congressmen and the President for 10 years, what would our nation be like if Conservatives held them compared to what would it be like if the Liberals held them?
I propose to you that we would have two entirely different nations.
So, let’s have a conversation, America. We’re in the middle of a big fight in the USA,and it concerns the 2nd Amendment of the US Constitution, which reads as above. Most of us realize our President sees our Constitution as a “living” i.e. evolving document. An overwhelming majority of Americans, however, do not see it that way, but as a solid, absolute foundation upon which our nation is built. Problem is, those in agreement with President include 99.9% (conservative estimate) of all journalists/media outlets and celebrities with big mouths and plenty of camera time.
The administration has a history of orchestrating events and “milking” tragedies for his political agenda. Remember, “Fast & Furious?” Remember the Aurora shootings? While I will not go so far as to accuse the President of arranging the “Sandy Hook massacre,” he is most assuredly milking it to further is dream (and goal) of a gun-free America. He has, in fact, rearranged the entire scenario, tampered with evidence, to fit his agenda.
Remember the horror of the “Breaking news” that morning? I do! The initial news report said Lanza used 2 handguns in the event and that an AR-15 “Bushmaster” was found in the shooter’s car. Just 2 days later, that scenario had been rearranged saying the AR-15 was found beside the victim’s body. It is now believed, they say, that the Bushmaster was the primary weapon used in the tragedy. Well … which is it? The result of this obvious and blatant manipulation of the facts is a media BLITZ attack on our 2nd Amendment rights to “keep and bear arms.”
Here’s one with a wood grain stock. Looks more like a hunting weapon, right?
This is a “breast cancer” support weapon with a sponsored logo!
Just for the sake or argument, the same weapon found initially in the shooter’s car in Newtown, Connecticut can look ominous painted black, but it can also be painted other ways to make it appear less threatening. Bottom line is that ALL firearms are assault weapons, and the definition used in legislation is solely at the discretion of the author of the bill. How reasonable is it, though, for someone like Senator Feinstein to hold a concealed carry permit & carry her gun while she proposes a ban on the rest of the American people?
Similarly, there have been several news items posted in recent weeks extolling the benefits of an armed population.
There are plenty of statistics that demonstrate many other items much more dangerous that any type of firearm. Still, the administration is locked and loaded toward the disarming of the American people in open and obvious contradiction to the US Constitution. Shall we put a ban on tobacco products or re-institute “Prohibition?” Shall we ban automobiles? Obviously, the answer is NO!
This adminstration is working overtime to install a”dumbed down” approach to life in America. President Obama believes, and he wants US to believe the American people are not smart enough to rule ourselves, even though we have done so successfully for more than 200 years. This is the whole “nanny state” mentality that he is encouraging in his “food stamps” push toward Seniors, repeated extensions for unemployment, and his lack of success in job creation. He doesn’t WANT to create jobs, America! He isn’t even trying to create jobs. We aren’t responsible enough to own and operate firearms, so he must take them from us one way or another.
The US Constitution contradicts this policy vehemently, and so do the majority of American citizens – both Democrat and Republican! So … TAKE A STAND!
Just for the sake of argument, though, what do you think of the ideas in this graphic? Cars are regulated by state governments, according to state laws and oversight. Might firearms be managed likewise? Would it be an infringement of our 2nd Amendment rights to regulate firearms in this way? You tell me! Let’s have a REAL DISCUSSION here, America!
I am compelled to apologize for any words or images I have shared throughout this election season that disrespected the Office of the President or the person of Barack Obama. My intention was to make no judgement about him as a person. It is his policies that are contrary to my beliefs, and it is his policies I take issue with. That is all. His personal life and character are not for me to judge except where it affects public policy.
There has been a landslide of nasty, irresponsible ads, cartoons, and slurs from both sides, and it prompts one simple question:
What gives us the impression we deserve a more truthful,
more Constitutional government
when we cannot even engage in a civil discussion
among ourselves as neighbors, family and friends?
I suggest we have more in common than we have differences, or at the very least, we have a foundation of shared beliefs:
We are, after all, all Americans despite what some politicians believe. We come from different nations, backgrounds, ethnicities, religions, etc, but none of those things are really issues unless someone turns a spotlight on them. We are British, French, German, Spanish, African, Russian, Jewish, and Arabs. We are Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and atheist. We are rich, poor, thin, fat, tall, short, but we are all Americans. We have been foolish to allow politicians to drive wedges between us, focusing only on our differences and ignoring the things we share.
We all care for our children, our elderly, and the weaker among us, and seek ways and methods to help improve their lot. None of us can abide purposeless suffering and will do whatever we can to “fix” the problem. We want our children to excel in whatever they choose. We want our Seniors to have purpose right up to the end of their lives. We want to alleviate pain where we can, and comfort the suffering as best we can.
We all feel the need to be safe in our homes, and live the life we choose, as lng as it doesn’t infringe on another’s right to do the same. We all know the world has some craziness in it, but we need to feel safe, at least in our our homes. We acknowledge that the choice between safety and freedom is an ambiguous one difficult to fathom and harder to apprehend.
We all need to feel like we matter, like we’re a part of something noble that is much larger than we are and we have a part. We are all disappointed when we learn that “noble” something turns out to be less than perfect. This is a basic human need – to be needed or appreciated. This is the point and function of families. Each of us, ideally, has a family that provides a “safe” growing place, but we know this is not how things always play out. Nevertheless, individuals require a circle of support, in lieu of a family or in addition to it, to help in times of need, but also to be a place of giving for each one. We all – each one of us – have something of value to share with others, and it is vital to to preserve and develop our individual promise, our personal dream.
The hatred and bitterness that ripples across our land is a potentially fatal virus. Though we disagree on the “HOW” of these issues, the goal is the same for Democrats and republicans, for Liberals and Conservatives, for Libertarians, and Tea Party Patriots. We want a strong, vibrant America with productive citizenry and opportunity for every American.
We ALL feel disenfranchised, cut off from the power, right?
We ALL feel a horrible disappointment in the way prices continue to climb and our pay doesn’t, right?
We ALL feel unfairly helpless as life appears to be dictated by the powerful elite in DC or Big Business, right?
We ALL believe the goal of government, as stated in the Constitution, is to facilitate the ability of each American citizen to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” The attainment of happiness is up to each of us since it is different for each of us. If the men and women currently running for office are not the ones to get us to this goal, it is up to us to find the ones that can and will, and if we cannot do that, perhaps we should consider running for office.
In another week or so, we will elect the man to lead our nation for the next 4 years. Some of us will be very upset by the results and some will be content, but either way, we are ALL Americans! The hatred and divisions do not serve ANY good purpose, and only serve to divide us for easier … manipulation? I am only one person, and claim no authority but that of citizen, but still I urge any who read this to put aside the foul emotions of this election season, the name-calling and lies, and put our energy into pushing our government to actually represent OUR wishes.
blogsense-by-barb 