During today’s moment of silence for the victims in Arizona, I’ll be thinking about what I witnessed during the Fort Collins Rally to Restore Sanity.
People of every political party, faith, age, and economic status were present – everyone having a good laugh, holding intelligent conversations, and leaving with a feeling of mutual respect and admiration.
Politics is a game played by people – sometimes you win and sometimes you lose, but the important part to remember is that – it’s a game. Moreover, it’s a game played by people who do their best to play by the rules. People who think they’re doing what’s best.
No matter where you fall with your political party, how old you are, what religion you have, what race you are, or how much money you make, you can always appreciate and respect another person’s point of view – even if you disagree.
Violence should always be against the rules. Games that turn violent aren’t games anymore.
So, here’s what I propose: whenever a debate gets too heated, too intense: Shake their hand. Buy them coffee. Stay sane. At the very least, follow the words of Quark: “Every once in a while, Declare Peace. It confuses the hell out of your enemies.”
(Header photo: American Flags by thenoodleator)
