After taking some time to think about this I find, like so many others, that I cannot throw my hat into one place and say that I am this or that politically. What I can do is place here, on the www, what I believe. Some things I believe stronger than others but I certainly cannot bullet point those either.
One thing I do believe in as a priority is freedom. I believe in the freedom of the individual, of mind, of thought, of religion and of speech. I frankly detest closed-minded people. They literally make my skin crawl. I find that throughout my life these people have generally been right-wing in their political persuasion. I will admit that as this is the case that particular feeling could well be me - I am liberal by anyone’s standards. I have never thought that government should come within a mile of privacy of the person, all that seems too often to happen in this day and age. I see right-wing enthusiasts as common gossipers (I dislike them, too) - the all seeing busy-body who just gets up everyone’s nose just because they can.
I don’t believe in poverty! I believe that all citizens of this world should have a life worth living irrespective of which country you should reside. Added to that, I do not believe in violent protest unless every single avenue of dialogue has been exhausted. I will not, ever, accept the use of ones own citizens to propagate a political agenda, i.e. terrorism. I see terrorists as political as well as moral cowards. I do believe that a country born of freedom has the right to defend itself and those who believe in those freedoms - yet I do not believe that the freedoms as percived by one nation be forced upon another.
I also believe that it is the duty of any government to provide the best healthcare that it can for its citizens. This is where I cannot accept any excuses if this is not done - it is beyond any rational thought as to why paying for healthcare gives you more of a right to live than if you cannot.
I don’t believe in income tax unless it is used for healthcare, education and basic utilities, such as water, provision of law enforcement, fire fighting and the right of all citizens to lawful council. With this I believe that taxation should be on what we buy, if you can afford to buy a Rolls-Royce you can afford the 20% tax on it. I would stop income tax for a fairer tax on goods bought and sold. I do accept that governments have to provide certain things that society needs and they do need the cash to do such a thing. I only believe in a nations right to defend itself - not to the detriment of another nation on a perceived idea of defence. If you are attacked, you defend yourself, if you are strong you help those who cannot, defend themselves. Because you are weak you should not attack those who are strong because you have a perceived idea that they are going to hurt you.
Governments should be open to public scrutiny at all times! A government is only representative of the people and any who are in government should fear those people because of the power they have. I certainly don’t agree with a written constitution - they are not fluid enough for the future. They may seem a good idea at the time but mean nothing hence. There are fundamental right that every citizen of this world should have, yes, I agree those should be set in stone and be blindly adhered to.
I believe in equality of all, from Kings to commoners. Education for all that is provided by the state. A way of including all representations in society so no voice goes unheard.
These are some of the things I believe and don’t believe in - some will agree, some will not. That is one thing I would cherish because it means you have that freedom that I hold so dear. If I think of more to complicate things - I will write them down.
All Images designed by Alison Rhodes (LastingExpressions)
19 responses so far ↓
thebeadden // January 31, 2008 at 10:23 pm
Did you write that? It’s everything I’ve wanted to say but didn’t know how without sounding like I’m ranting off about everything under the sun. I want to print it and hand it out! I get so worked up when it comes to politics and the media ignoring important issues. I’m Canadian but it seems lately it’s hard to find any difference between the two boders with our current Government.
Will Rhodes // January 31, 2008 at 10:58 pm
Yes, I wrote it, and by all means if you wish to use it please do. All I ask if you do is that you credit it back to me or give a link out where you got it from.
The Sunday Report #3 « The Bead Den // February 3, 2008 at 9:34 pm
[...] probably become a regular reader of his blog. At the top of his blog there was a link called “political ethos” Being quite political myself, I was curious at what I might find. When I finished reading it [...]
garymurning // March 8, 2008 at 7:23 am
Bravo!
Al Trees // May 8, 2008 at 4:24 am
Ironically, you sound rather conservative and don’t even know it.
The things you say you believe in are (I hate to be the one to break the news) largely conservative…i.e. “right wing” points of view. I don’t mean in mere word but in honest application and practicality.
It is the left who gives lip service to the cliches while fighting the practical, honest application of those cliches. You say your experience has shown most close minded people have been on the right. What is interesting is that my experience, is that most close minded people I have observed, have been on the left.
What does close minded mean anyway? The definition is somewhat subjective I think! Does it mean anyone who will not believe as you… or I…. is close minded? In all honesty, I could concede that possibility, if they fail to be persuaded by me, after a thorough vetting and discussion of a given issue. I would tend to believe they are “close minded” ; - ) If I’m wrong then there would be only one conclusion. They are dishonest socialists and don’t believe in the freedom of individual, (of mind, of thought,…one in the same I think) of religion or of speech.
Interestingly enough…I believe it is the left who fights all these things every day, while claiming to be the champions of these very ideals.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying this is you. Merely borrowing your words as a concept. I believe a strong case can be made that it is the left who actively works against these basic principles.
You have made it clear that you dislike me, even though we have never met, because after all, I am a conservative…or as you would call me, a right winger! I wonder, is that close minded? Just curious! But I digress…
Let’s get specific on some of your comments or “beliefs”. I have (at least in verbage) many of the same beliefs you have. Perhaps the difference would be in definition. Perhaps we would both be surprised…assuming of course we each remain open minded.
We agree, we each believe in the freedom of the individual, of mind, of thought, of religion and of speech. Yet it is the left who does not believe that law abiding citizens should have the right to keep and bear arms, to use school vouchers to get out of the under performing schools and get into a highly accredited one.
By the way, I think another thing we would agree on…I don’t believe in monopolies. Oh..and by the way, teachers unions are monopolies! This is one of the constituents of the left wing politicians, and the ones standing in the way of competition in schools which would force an elevated standard for the poor. I believe it is not in their interest however, because an educated constituency would not continue to allow such incompetence. This would eliminate their monopoly, which would eliminate their power. That just can’t happen! We all know it.
Being a “right winger” I am a firm believer in competition in the market place. This is what eliminates complacency and mediocrity! “Only the strong survive”. In other words “Survival of the fittest”. These should be concepts that many left wingers can get their heads around.
I believe it is the left who stands in the way of freedom of speech as well. Case and point, it is the left which will not allow conservative commentators to appear before the groups which invited them to speak on college campuses. They are interrupted and even shut down on a consistent basis, because they don’t like what they have to say.
It is the left who wants to monopolize health care by implementing more regulation and effectively eliminating competition by putting it under government control. Name one government institution that operates efficiently (besides the military) and I may reconsider my position.
Have any of you who are gung ho about Universal Health Care ever checked out Canada’s problems or the UK? Those are just two examples of free societies that have had what the left in this Country want, for years. They are both miserable failures, on many levels. I won’t bore you with details. Do your own research…I mean research, not just looking at pudants oppinions. It is the left who is against medical savings plans, pre tax, for ones use on ones own health care. When the person reaches a certain age the money can be used for what ever, or willed to family members.
Why is this unfair? It’s not asking anyone else to pay for mine or your health care. I leaves incentive to seek medical attention only when truly needed, including preventative. No incentive to seek attention for a hang nail. One of the problems with health care is demand. What will happen when it is free. What will happen when it is rationed?
Rationing of health care is inevitable if it becomes “Universal”. There is simply no way around it. Pretty soon, my 80 year old Grandfather (example) is not worthy of the medical attention he needs, because the budget is to thin already and Grandpa has lived long enough already anyway. What about in five years when now your 70 year old Grandfather is “to old” for that bypass surgery? After all…”he’s lived a long (enough) life.
Knee surgery? that’s elective!….you don’t need it. That’s what crutches and wheelchairs are for anyway. Back surgery? ….stay in bed!
Somehow, it wouldn’t be fair to allow one to opt for a health savings account, because not everyone can afford that.
This is the basic problem with left wingers as I see it. Rather than aspiring to lift those less advantaged UP…..they would have you believe it is more fair to bring those with perceived advantage DOWN! Because this is considered “fair”.
The gall of someone to do better than another must be punished! i.e. the current tax code. It isn’t fair one should make more than another so we are going to punish you if you make more money this year by making you pay more in taxes. This of course eliminates the incentive to work harder and do better. Why? If I work harder to improve my lot in life the government is going to take most of it anyway, so I’ll be content with mediocrity! It’s easier and I won’t be punished for it.
The consumption tax is something Will that we could agree on, perhaps. Maybe a flat tax. These both have merit and I agree with your assertion that if someone can afford a Rolls Royce or yacht they should be able to pay the tax. Problem is, the left won’t allow that to happen. The claim is that it punishes the poor. The poor shouldn’t have to pay taxes on food, or health care or cars or…anything! “Because it isn’t fair”!……HUH?
The truth….If the left looses control of the tax system as it stands, they loose their power. Notice I don’t use the labels of Republican or Democrat because most Republicans in many cases are liberals in Republican clothing or linguini spined whimps. Democrats are primarily (but not totally) made up of socialists who do NOT believe in true independence or freedom for the average person.
I’m speaking of the political leadership primarily. They believe their subjects are incapable for one reason or another to do for themselves. Therefore, they..the government must intervene and control and quell. Ironically, those who consider themselves to be liberals and always worry about the government coming to close to the privacy of an individual are usually perfectly fine with the government “invading” and controlling most other aspects of their lives…i.e. health care, energy, education, increased taxes, etc….these are all major areas of control the government has over our lives. This reduces…and I suggest will eventually eliminate individual liberties.
I don’t agree with your view that health care is a “right”. That I have an obligation to provide it from my pocket to those who “can’t” afford it. Right now, with the semi socialist system we currently have in place, the poor has health care. It’s called Medicaid….and I pay for it. You know what is funny? I don’t have health care, because I make to much to qualify for Medicaid. I don’t make enough to afford my own insurance…because I am self employed and make a modest living. That said, I don’t believe you owe me my health care! I do believe the government should get out of the way so it is easier to afford a plan. Allow competition to flourish, allow pre tax medical savings accounts so I can pay…then you won’t have to pay for mine.
I do believe there should be a safety net in many areas for those who truly need it. I’m O.K. with Medicaid on a limited basis in some cases. I’m O.K. with food stamps on a limited basis in some cases. I believe in means testing for all these programs however. Those on the far left would say “it’s not fair”. This is proof, I am a heartless conservative. That I would dare hold people accountable by means testing. Sorry! but not really.
I totally agree with your statement, “Governments should be open to public scrutiny at all times! A government is only representative of the people and any who are in government should fear those people because of the power they have”.
You could not be more wrong however, on your statement of disbelief in a constitution. You completely negated the previous belief…of your “non belief” by uttering the following “There are fundamental right that every citizen of this world should have, yes, I agree those should be set in stone and be blindly adhered to”. It is impossible to have the later without the former!
What is it about “All men are created equal” you disagree with? What is it about freedom of speech, religion, right to keep and bear arms (assuming you are law abiding and follow current laws) unreasonable search and seizure, freedom of the press….what is it about these things you think are fluid and should not be written in stone? I’ve thought about it long and hard on many occasions and have failed every time to fall for that liberal college professor bull shit.
It seems like it is so enlightened to buy that crap on it’s surface, but when you actually get to it…it is insane and a sure way to erode rights and open the door to tyranny! But that is just my opinion. I would hate to be considered closed minded.
Last but not least, a comment on your statement “A way of including all representations in society so no voice goes unheard.” With all due respect, This comment seems redundant to me and ignorant of our style of government, which you almost name in your statement…”representations in society”. Did you mean representative government? This is exactly how we make sure “no voice goes unheard”. This is exactly how the “little guy” is sure to be heard! We haven’t even begun to talk about all the special interest groups that give the “little guy”, not only a voice but even more power than our representative government affords. This is exactly what will disappear without a written constitution, in the name of fluidity.
These are merely a small sampling of my views on some of your views. I don’t know if it will get any views but it was fun making the attempt to get them down on “paper”, hopefully in a logical, perhaps meaningful, with any luck convincing manor. I suppose time will tell.
Because I not only know what I believe, but why i believe an “argument” must be posed that is based in logivc and reality, not utopia, fantasy or ignorance in order for me to reconsider my beliefs. I use history, logic and facts, primarily, to form my beliefs. If this makes me closed minded or a right wing Zealot, then I wear the label proudly!
It’s been fun.
Will Rhodes // May 8, 2008 at 7:54 am
Nice long post - it will give me something to ‘think’ about.
But, you mention Canada and the UK health service.
I live in Canada - I was born and raised in the UK, it amazes me that those who have never used those services criticise them.
Go to the UK without health coverage - you will be treated at no cost. The only time that there is real problems in the UK health service is when ‘competition’ is brought into the scenario and that is done only when you have a right wing government.
I will come back to your points over time - and correct your interpretations about me.
Al Trees // May 8, 2008 at 11:09 am
I of course would not expect you to take just my word for it….check out the website above.
I have nothing against other countries, but if you feel like you need to go to other countries like Turkey, Germany, Hungary, Malaysia, Poland, Spain, or India for your health care while living in Great Britain, How bad does it have to be?……Sorry, it’s a cop out to blame right wingers. This is a socialist system run by a “far from right wing” government.
“Dozens more countries are attracting health tourists as well. New research has shown that the growing NHS bureaucracy has left nurses will little time to see patients, most of them spending long periods dealing with paperwork. Katherine Murphy of the Patients’ Association said the health tourism figures reflect a shrinking public faith in the government’s handling of the National Health System.”
More examples to follow.
Will Rhodes // May 8, 2008 at 12:11 pm
I came to Canada to be with my wife - If that is what you mean, not sure exactly what you mean at all.
But the US system has 50 million people without healthcare, the UK has zero without healthcare.
Al Trees // May 8, 2008 at 12:26 pm
Let me just ask you a few questions about what I believe to be facts. By the way, I have family and friends living in Canada. I don’t have to live there to know it gets cold.
I’ve seen a bumper sticker that I thought was great. It said, “If you think health care is expensive now, WAIT TILL IT’S FREE!” It was so accurate and concise. I loved it!
Canadians and Europeans are taxed HUGELY… No? I believe the basic off the top tax rate is about 30% of your income up to $115,000. Yes? Anything above $115k is taxed at 45% Yes?
Then you have about a 15% sales tax….15%!!! Holy Crap! What does it cost to license your automobile? About $500.00 plus per year?
What about property taxes? Around $3,000.00 per year for a 1,200 sq ft house and no yard?
You, my friend Will, are paying these taxes, (I assume) but I will bet you are seldom, I dare say, near never using any “real” health care. Aside from perhaps the basic sniffles stuff? I assume this because it appears you are young. Statistically, the young don’t need health care. But you are paying through the nose for it! For years you have and will continue to pay through the nose. But will hardly every use it. I don’t know, maybe it’s o.k. with you sense it is being TAKEN from you indirectly, through taxes, which you have become desensitized toward.
You have heard the analogy I’m sure of the lab experiment where if you place a frog in a pail of water which is boiling, it will jump out immediately. However, if you place it in lukewarm water and turn up the heat slowly, it will boil to death. Liberals know this concept and practice as well as implement their principles using this method every day.
Didn’t the government cap the salaries of Doctors and Nurses not to long ago? What do you suppose the result of that is going to be? I saw one study that indicates by the year 2025 there will be an extreme shortage of health care providers, because there is no incentive any longer to invest the incredible time, effort and money to enter the medical field. Many health care professionals are either retiring or moving to the U.S. with no new blood coming into the system. This may be about the time Will that you will need those services more and more.
About medications….Canada has a cap on the cost of medications. U.S. citizens wonder why it is so much cheaper to get their meds from Canada. What they don’t realize is that it is the U.S. companies which do all the R and D on these drugs, wholesale them to Canada, which has no investment to recoup and “abra cadabra” cheap medicine. Of course Canada can afford to sell them cheaper. They have no R and D cost…duh!
Problem is, people, armed with this ignorance, points to this superficial “non” reality and say
“see, America sucks, we need free health care too!” While younger citizens like you say, “see, I had a cold last week and I got to go to the doctor for “free”.” ….sorry for the double quotes.
I’m just curious about your basic concept of competition Will. I mean no disrespect! I know sometimes the written word can be misinterpreted….or not, when it comes to attitude. Do you think it is better for the consumer to have one place of business to go to for service, or better to have several places who do the same thing, to choose from?
Your answer will tell me (and perhaps even you) a lot about how consistent you are, which should translate to your belief in liberalism vs Conservatism.
You see, (if you hadn’t guessed ; -) I am a die hard, unapologetic conservative..hard core to the bone!!! You might call me a “Right Winger” or “Capitalist Pig.” O.K….so sue me for believing in competitive capitalism. Even for believing in the human spirit and that if Government will just get out of the way, those concepts and principles will provide exactly what you claim to want. The elimination of poverty.
If however, we foster dependence, by turning the heat up slowly on the burner. Incentive for excellence will completely disappear, replaced by complacency, mediocrity, and total dependence. The natural, undeniable, absolute final result of all that? Poverty and weakness, with anarchy looming around the corner waiting for an excuse to pounce!
America is and has never been perfect. We have many faults and even disgraces in our past. However, this does not stop millions each year from trying to get into our borders. For what?
Seriously….What do you think the reason is? Is it because the founding principles which still exist (though diluted with socialism here too) are what all free “men” long for? I dare say, YES! oh…and by the way. Those founding principles…they are written in “stone.” It’s called the constitution! The second greatest document EVER WRITTEN!!!
I will subside for now. Just a few more morsels to chew on. I hope I make some sense, even if you don’t agree. Of course, if you are open minded, you will have no choice but to agree ; -)
Until next time!
Will Rhodes // May 8, 2008 at 12:43 pm
OK - lets go down the tax route - an interesting route.
People are taxed and in the UK people also pay National Insurance. This covers, with taxes, everything that can be foreseen with healthcare. The US citizen pays taxes - lower taxes?
You are taxed with income tax - then you have to pay for healthcare, now, unless you are wealthy, and I am mistaken, US healthcare will cost a minimum of $12,000 per year. If you have greater coverage - that costs more. That is an indirect tax because you have to pay it if you want healthcare. Now, how much does the average Canadian and UK citizen pay into the health service?
I think, if you did your research correctly - Canada does do quite an incy-wincy bit of R&D, but that isn’t the point.
As for being open minded, you will find that I tolerate your views on this blog as much as anyone elses - while I may disagree with you, I believe you have as much freedom to say what you wish as I.
My age, just to give you a stand point, is 46 - 47 this year. I used the UK health system when I needed it - I paid my NI willingly - because I believe that all citizens should be covered not just me and mine - that’s called a caring society where we all look after each other.
UK Dr’s are (GP’s) earning $200,000 a year, some specialists are earning much more.
Not sure what your point was about the US constitution, it has been changed before (Booze) it can be changed again. Which was the first greatest document ever written? The Magna Carta? There are 12 versions of those, each one amended as needed for the time - maybe the US constitution should do the same?
You know - bring it up to date for the 21st century.
pipmeister // May 9, 2008 at 7:52 am
One of the problems, at least for me, when leaving such a long post, is that some of my thoughts get left behind or maybe out of order. Before I know it, I have been posting for far to long and need to move on, so I submit without editing very well. I’m not saying that I would have caught all the mistakes or meandering thoughts. Lord knows I’m not a writer.
Let me just take a moment and say, that I respond to you in each instance in good spirit. It is not my intention or desire to antagonize or demean you or your views.
You will find me however, to be passionate and hopefully logical. Some of the seemingly cynical comments I made were done so mostly tongue in cheek, with a “wink and a rib,” because of your comments about “Right Wingers” being closed minded and “common gossipers and you dislike them too.” I could take offense to this but I choose not to do so.
On the other hand there are some points which I do intend to make in very strong terms and can, I know, come across as condescending. Let me just apologize ahead of time and ask you not to take offense.
You and I are nearly the same age. I recently turned 45. So in terms of “times around the block,” we are equally experienced. The big difference apparently, is our perspective. I have now doubt you will correct me where you feel I am wrong, but you tend to see people as victims of capitalism and I see them as victims of government. I see capitalism, while not being perfect, as the mechanism for leveling the playing field. Capitalism is a vehicle for any average Joe to climb onto and take them to any destination they can dream. It is the only thing that can keep prices in check, standards high, and choice for consumers.
Capitalism…i.e. “freedom”, again, while not perfect, is the only mechanism to do everything you say you believe in, or don’t believe in. For example, you say you don’t believe in poverty. I think that is an interesting way of putting it, but I think I know what you mean. My first reaction is, how can you not believe in poverty? It surrounds us throughout the world.
Have you noticed where poverty flourishes? EVERYWHERE Capitalism is not allow to operate freely. Think about it. America is one of the youngest countries in the world yet it has been the richest, most powerful country in the world for most of it’s existence. How did this happen? Very simple! Freedom and Capitalism. America was created for the precise reason that government was in the way and “messing with freedom.”
My point about the Constitution is the fact that it is the rock solid document that has guided the US to being the single greatest country in this worlds history. The guiding principles are what I refer to as being “written in stone.” As you have pointed out, it has been amended. This is as it should be and is currently. Your last paragraph seemed to contradict itself.
You pointed out the fact that the constitution was amended, as one example, for prohibition. Then you suggest that perhaps the Constitution or America, should allow for amendment. You know- bring it up to date for the 21st century.
You never told me yet what it is about freedom of speech you think should be changed?
What about freedom of the press?, Religion?, Unreasonable searches and seizures? Cruel and Unusual punishment? Which of these is out of date.
I’ll bet I can think of one. Let me just take a wild guess here. You would amend the second no doubt. The right to keep and bear arms. Just a guess…but am I right? Is there another change you would make?
Our Founding Fathers in their infinite wisdom believed in States rights. The Constitution can be amended, but it is not and should not be easy to do. Sovereign States have the power to make laws according to the will of the people. The Constitution is changed the same way…just not as easily. PERFECT!
Your numbers, by the way, for health care are way off. Unless of course you are speaking of a 76 year old male with cancer and emphysema. The average person does not pay $12,000 per year for health care, period. Now, if you’re talking about covering an entire family, then it’s possible, but that would be for pretty good coverage.
America has the best health care system in the world. There is simply no debate about this. I feel I need to keep qualifying this, because you don’t know me. I don’t believe anything is perfect. But to trash the best system in the world because it is not perfect is simply …well, less than wise.
I think I made the point about Canada’s health care cost, which you did not refute. When you add up all I laid out in various forms of taxes the average citizen pays more than you incorrectly claims the average American pays.
You say there are 47 million people uninsured in this country. This number includes tens of millions of young people who have the free choice NOT to have “cafe” style health care. I made the same CHOICE. My wife and I were young. She had health care through her employer and I chose NOT to be added onto her plan because I was/am young and healthy and we had other desires. This is the thing. We chose the boat instead of health insurance for me.
I get so tired of whiners who think it’s my responsibility to make sure they can suck on the governments hind tit while they choose to buy the boat instead of health insurance also. Then they complain that they can’t afford insurance so the government should provide it for them. Translation- Take it from that guy and that guy and that woman because they are “rich” and it’s not fair that they can afford it and I “can’t.” Right after they get done wiping the tears, they head out to polish their boat….or motorcycle…or second car…or ??? you get my point.
Why is it my responsibility to make sure they get to drive a second car? Have you seen the census reports? America has the richest poor people in the world, as you might expect. The average poor person makes more than 13,000 per year cash…tax free. Plus all the government programs they choose to take advantage of…i.e. food stamps, free health care (medicaid), two televisions, at least one car and is some cases two cars. etc. etc.
Did you know that it is Federal law to treat ANYONE who shows up in an emergency room throughout America…for free? Don’t tell me there are 47 million uninsured in this Country. It simply is not true and a distortion of the truth.
On the other hand I will concur that maybe there are millions who don’t have it paid for if they need a hang nail removed or a slight case of the sniffles. I think what you are saying though is that it should be my responsibility to pay for those things for everyone else? First let me suggest that if it’s really that bad, let them make the sacrifice for themselves. If not, then they don’t need it that bad anyway. If it’s an emergency, go to the ER and I will pay for it.
As far as a caring society, the American people are the most generous in the world. Have you ever looked at how much Americans donate ever single year? Especially during a crises? There is no country in the world that comes close! Period!!!
If you were to live your life consistently, you would make an oath to poverty and give away all you own. You paid your NI willingly because you believe everyone should be covered, not just you and yours. Guess what…I still don’t have health care. Are you willing to put your money where you mouth is and pay for mine? I will shop around for the best deal, I promise. When I’m covered, there will be someone else who needs it. But I suspect you think that suggestion is ludicrous. But I KNOW you don’t have a problem forcing me and everyone else, to pay for the next gut. That sir, is ludicrous!
Who decides when enough is enough? You? Me? the guy down the street? the government?
As heartless and cold as you think I am, I do believe in a safety net for real need. I’ve said this before. I also put my money where my mouth is. I am not wealthy by any means but I give to charity on a regular basis. If I have it and I see a need I give it, and I love doing it. I’m no different than most Americans. But if you tell us you (liberals) know know how to spend our money better than we do, and where it should be spent. Well, I will probably “arch my back” a bit about that.
pipmeister // May 9, 2008 at 8:02 am
Oh..by the way. I am a Christian, so to answer your question about the single most important document ever written? Well, I’m sure that goes without saying.
pipmeister // May 9, 2008 at 8:04 am
How do I change the icon? It portrays an attitude which is not meant and I don’t wish to display. That is an icon of anger. I prefer one of passion, with a sense of humor….I hope.
Will Rhodes // May 9, 2008 at 10:23 am
You register a blog and upload your own image - that will be used each time you sign in.
At the moment your image is automatically generated using your email address as the template.
I think the angry one looks good on you.
pipmeister // May 9, 2008 at 1:18 pm
LOL….touche’ I thought you might…and frankly that’s what I was afraid of : -)
Al Trees // May 14, 2008 at 12:19 am
I must have made your skin crawl, which is unfortunate, because I am waiting with bated breath to stand corrected. You promised ; -)
Will Rhodes // May 14, 2008 at 9:30 am
Stand corrected on what, if I could be sold bold?
Al Trees // May 14, 2008 at 1:10 pm
After my first post, you said you would come back over time and “correct my interpretations” of you. Also, I have posted under the name pipmeister.
I am honestly interested in your response to some of my contentions.
I want to commend you on your ability to write. I read where you said it is your aspiration and it shows. I’m sure it is equally obvious that writing is not my forte’. My sentence structure and punctuation have much to be desired, not to mention the short comings I exhibit with editing prior to submitting the post.
Don’t let that fool you however. I have full command of the issues. Politics is one of my passions. I do not get my news or opinions as most do, with 10 second sound bites from the evening news. I have paid close attention to the details, “behind the scenes” for many years. I know the specifics of the hypocrisy and ulterior motives of nearly all players.
Having read a fair share of your profile, I again would suggest that you are further “right” than you would probably like to admit. Don’t worry so much about the label. Liberals have succeeded in turning “right wing” into a dirty word. If it makes you feel any better consider the term, “conservative,” or perhaps “libertarian.” Either way, the substance and not the label is what matters. Wouldn’t you agree?
Will Rhodes // May 14, 2008 at 2:22 pm
I agree.
I agree with them.
No idea, sir – that is an ‘American’ problem.
Obviously not in the cartel meaning, but I agree. As I feel they are a necessity when you have employers and employment bodies that will destitute any who are not of the boss-class – we will need unions and their ilk for many more years to come.
Nonsensical! Elite schools will always be elite – do we need them, that is up for debate. Schools for the majority of children should be schools where children can learn the basics and develop from there. Competition does not breed a better child.
I am glad you do agree with that – you won’t be one who stagnates the Chinese economy while it takes all those ‘American jobs’ now will you? Wal*Mart would be proud of such an American who knows such things and understand that competition in the economy will, in effect, cripple the very country you live in. Enlightening to say the least.
Under both Canadian, British and most of the civilised world you would be covered automatically and wouldn’t have that worry – more fool you for not believing in a ‘right’ that would protect your good self, your family, your fellow countrymen and women. I would suggest that you embraced the ‘market economy’ you so believe in and get rich. If you aren’t good enough to make more than a modest income I would suggest further that you go to work for Wal*Mart where they do have health coverage.
Bit left-wing for you isn’t it? To care for your fellow countrymen and women. Yet, you do the opt-out ‘Truly need it’. Truly need it in your eyes I would presume.
I give you the US administration as of now. If you think the US administration listens, let alone ‘gives’ the little guy a voice, you must come from West Virginia.
As for calling myself a conservative – I would disagree; this is because you and I have a different interpretation of conservatism. I was brought up in the UK, have lived in many countries around the world – that kinda gives you a world view, which leaves me with a bitter taste of what conservatism is. I’ll stick with being left and a paid up Liberal.
I know – I just thought you had become less anal – but I can still hope.
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