It is interesting how divided we all have become. I don’t believe it is because of the 24 hour news cycle, or because of the “crazies” at the town hall meetings, or the other crazies who disrupt conservative speakers on college campuses. I believe we are divided because America is divided. The hostility and mean-spirited attacks, are the norm not because people are meaner then they use to be, but because so many people are passionate their beliefs. The reason we are passionate is because these conflicting idea are coming to a head. While I have no idea who you are my guess is that if we met at a super bowl party we would most likely have gotten along just fine.

But we didn’t. We met through a format where people share their ideas on issues that matter. Truth is 90% of the people I call my friends could care less and are most likely just as offended as you with my comments.. even if they agree with my general position.

I do wish there was a better way for me to share my passion without being offensive. I do have several good friends who stand firmly on the other side of the aisle. I would not pretend to suggest that there is any chance I will change my fundamental beliefs that guide my thoughts and actions.

In the end I get one vote and you get one vote. I will try to influence as many people as I can, and you will most likely do the same.. that is our right. We can agree to disagree. But I will always fight for the country that I love. Perhaps some day we both can have a more thoughtful discussion about what exactly it is that we disagree on.

As for your friend you worked with. Let her know that my comments were aimed at her idea that it is governments place to take care of everyone. I am sure she is a nice lady. Have a great day.

Please not I did not mean any of my comments to be personal in nature.. Just interested in having a lively discussion with intelligent people. Happy to have a dialouge.. no interest in name calling.

I’m only speaking from experience… two years ago I wanted to make a documentary… it seemed like the America I grew up in hardly existed anymore… it was depressing… I wanted to go out and see if we could stir up enough nastalgia and recollections from good folks to remembered the good values and regional cultures that existed… it’s taken a lot of personal growth to come to terms with the fact that America is what is always has been and that the world goes through cycles… I’m a Heartlander who has worked the land, lived in the woods, raised animals, but have also lived in or near big cities… some of the social aspects of our history are downright depressing, and you still see the blight in many of our cities… that’s why I think we need balance

Not sure where that thread moved to, but in reply to Mr. Stock’s comments, let me guess, you’ve probably lived in the same state or same town your whole life. You feel entitled to keep ‘America’ exactly what it was when you were born into it in the 1950s. A country run by Anglo-saxons that was using its economic & political power to separate itself from the rest of the world. It’s a shame so many Americans think this country is a world unto itself. This place is a melting pot, and it just happens that the Anglos got here first and had more power, but things will keep changing. America is the leader in promoting and protecting certain freedoms… but the NRA-lovin’ type Americans are going to have to give some ground as this country changes.

JIMMY: There was Progress.. and its call AMERICA. Land of the free, home of the brave. are you saying that there are elements of socialism that represent progress??? One more question Jason… Do you believe that man is inherently good?

You could tell them that you’ll gladly post the news of Obama leaving the White House for good when that day finally arrives.