Back to Basics

I think Glenn Beck is onto something. I don’t believe that most Americans are ideological extremists when it comes to politics. The loudest voices are not the most numerous. The above link points to a list of 9 basic principles on Beck’s site. I agree with these principles, so I wanted to share them here:

1. America is good.

Yes! America is not perfect, but there is still no place in the world I’d rather live. The blood of our brave soldiers has secured freedom for all Americans.

2. I believe in God and He is the Center of my Life.

Enough said.

3. I must always try to be a more honest person than I was yesterday.

Something everyone should strive for.

4. The family is sacred. My spouse and I are the ultimate authority, not the government.

Nothing is more important than family.

5. If you break the law you pay the penalty. Justice is blind and no one is above it.

... all of these congressmen that have failed to pay taxes should lose their jobs immediately. And movie stars, athletes, etc. should not be given special treatment either. They’re just people!

6. I have a right to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness, but there is no guarantee of equal results.

This is the American Dream -- everyone has opportunity

7. I work hard for what I have and I will share it with who I want to. Government cannot force me to be charitable.

To me, this just means that you shouldn’t punish people for being successful. The government does not have the right to take the wealth someone has worked hard for and redistribute it to whomever they please. I know that in this tough economic climate, people need help, but socialism isn’t the answer. Capitalism is one of the things has allowed our nation to become so great.

8. It is not un-American for me to disagree with authority or to share my personal opinion.

Of course -- this is what freedom is all about. However, there is a great difference between expressing opinions and political mudslinging. Sadly, many people fail to recognize this difference.

9. The government works for me. I do not answer to them, they answer to me.

We select our government leaders to represent us; they are accountable to the people.

Beck’s assertion is that we aren’t surrounded by people who are so ideologically different than we are. It’s good to know that I’m not alone in feeling this way.