Hate Trump. Really hate Trump. Really, really hate Trump. Papa is giggling as these comments are typed out. I understand that Trump is disliked. I understand that people did not vote for Trump. I understand that people voted for Trump. I understand that some people blame everything not to their liking on Trump. I certainly understand that people were unhappy with governing by some of the Presidents during my 16 electoral choices.
Although not in my nature I even sort of understand how some people are riled up to a 100%, all the time, unrelenting hate of Trump. What is not very rationally understood is why some people shun Papa when he does not join in a Trump hate fest. Debate and the free exchange of ideas were a bed rock of my family when growing up, as well as during my political science/history/law education and in 58 years of practicing law/judging. Too many times since Trump’s re-election when the words “hate Trump because” are spoken, Papa’s natural instinct is to suggest something less than another’s 100% on a topic. For many years if the constitution, laws or historical facts are deemed distorted, Papa thought it was good to join in and advance a debate. Discussion of issues was a positive. I only recall being encouraged to do so. It was the process that Hlped formed more liberal ideas. However, what now happens on occasion is that any contrary contribution seems very unwelcome and judged as not having zealous 100% hate for Trump. It is not enough to recognize his personality flaws, to have not voted for him or to disagree with the vast majority of presidential dcisions/policies. One needs to be a part of the chorus. No exceptions.
This blog is for my grandkids and tries to target hope. It is the opposite of hope to wallow in the negativity that an all consuming hate of Trump engenders. When others do not appreciate any contribution that is not 100% they become the censors that squash free thinking. Previosuly, I wrote that it will be interesting if the democrats adapt enough to win more elections in the future. On the national level so far most of what Papa hears is an echoed version of the few who hate Trump without exception. I don’t hear much thought from the expressors of hate as to why he got elected. Hate Trump and those close to him of course and then lament how stupid all his supporters/voters are. Don’t disturb the comfortable embrace of hate based on a personal opinion of intellectual superiority. But, may Papa suggst that there are reaons out there why Trump won beyond others are not as smart as thee.
What Papa thinks is a series of opportunities to enjoy discussing the issues of the day become islands of silence. Don’t talk politics is an old cliche of course. In my 81 years I do not remember times or issues that I didn’t feel comforatble talking about differing political/social issues with others. Now, in the name of social peace silence is suggested for Papa. How hate for one man can so twist another’s freedom of speech is fascinating. Books will be written on the subject at some point. Plenty of material.
So, do your best to cling to an open mind. Read and listen to a wide variety of sources. Find folks of all opinions and beliefs to have open discussions. Draw your own conclusions from facts. Form your own values. Express your opinions. There is no one person or group that you need to conform with. Remain positive. Negative thoughts that scare are the gun powder of politics by both political parties; especially on their fringes. It’s just possible that the sky is not falling. Papa will continue to use this forum and pray that this time of hate fades so it feels comfortable that voices can be heard/tolerated.