Dan, how does that saying go? Something along the lines of there's a difference between being "in the world" as opposed to being "of the world". If that is actually the case then it's fair to state that though we can accept a broad cross section of viewpoints and behaviors doesn't neccesarily mean that we approve of or promote those same viewpoints and behaviors.
There are no doubt wolves in sheeps clothing among us and one needs to really stay on their toes in order to discern that which is benificial from that which is harmful. It's a real challenge when so much of what's around us is designed to lull us into a state of complacency or to literally put us to sleep on current issues. I further believe that one of the circumstances that is most evident is the seeming indifference we seem to have where our government is concerned. As a nation our inability to come together on what's best for humanity is saddening. Politicians have too many masters to serve from lobbyists and special interests, to their own party, to environmentalists and the list goes on. We need to get back to the point where the only master that matters is "The People".
I personally believe that all people (with the exception of those who are handicapped) come to this world with the ability to discern good from bad, it's instinctive. Though it might be fun to do everyone knows that throwing rocks through the neighbors windows is wrong. That said, the bad that is around us is a such a continual barage. The net effect is that it wears us down and pretty soon we either no longer have the aility to feel those impressions or we just no longer care. It isn't about partisan politcs or the left or the right. Any one issue can be diluted, restated, rewritten or repeated out of context to the point that you can find what ever it is you're looking for from 0 to 180 degrees just simply looking at the same issue. Congressional bills designed simply to please all, when all that is needed is to get from A to B are destroying us. We don't need the XYZ's to get from A to B. If we're not firmly grounded, knowing in advance where we stand the wind will blow us where it may. I believe that in many cases there are Good, Better and Best scenarios and far to often we opt for the Good or Better while leaving the Best on the table, smiling as we wallk away.
Lastly, I believe that nothing on this earth is brand new, the real issues are still the same. Sure we might enhance the speed at which we move but much of what was written centuries ago is still correct in principle. The quote I posted is a good example of this but I don't think you have to look much further than The Constitution to prove this true. Why do we continually try to have it rewritten?
Yeah, just my .02 cents, stepping down from my soap box. :horse: