Quo Vadis?

OK, I've seen a lot of bitterness and anger on this board today. Now that we've all had a good vent, what do people think we can do to feel more positive about this entire thing? Everyone seems very polarized. The pro-Kerry faction is very angry and the pro-Bush folks seem very defensive. These emotions seem prevalent everywhere, not just in The Cellar. So, now what? Do those of us who opposed Bush just sit back and wait for things to fall apart the way we expect? How do we act as the "loyal minority"? How does the Republican faction suggest that we pull together as a people? Can we? I'd like some positive responses, if possible. We've had enough name-calling for one day.

[Trilby]

I think we all still are pretty pissed. nice try, though. to be commended.

[Kitsune]

The pro-Kerry faction is very angry and the pro-Bush folks seem very defensive. These emotions seem prevalent everywhere, not just in The Cellar.

This, I think, is the most interesting aspect of this whole ordeal. This is not a generational gap -- the split cannot be defined by age!

Do those of us who opposed Bush just sit back and wait for things to fall apart the way we expect?

For the moment, I'd like to see a true understanding between both sides. A "why did you vote the way you did?" discussion so that we can, at least, figure out why this divide exists, where it comes from, etc. But, sadly, they always break down online to yelling matches. Try it in real life, sometime. If both sides keep their heads, you really do learn an amazing amount about each side and that opinions don't have to be taken in anger.

[OnyxCougar]

There is more than 2 sides to this issue. Why are people limiting this to Reps and Dems? I believe it's because they aren't familiar with the other parties, and that is directly traceable to the media. I didn't see a thing on fox news or cnn about Badnarik or Green or the other (yes, 3 others in some states) candidates. Why weren't they invited to the debate? These are the questions we need answered.

[jinx]

Originally Posted by Kitsune

For the moment, I'd like to see a true understanding between both sides. A "why did you vote the way you did?" discussion so that we can, at least, figure out why this divide exists,

I am registered L. I agree with many traditionally R tenets; smaller government, fewer social programs etc., and many on the D side being 'liberal', non-religious, female etc. I haven't seen F911, I never voted before this election and I was really glad when Gore didn't win.
I voted for Kerry because I don't think Bush has been a good president. I don't believe he's even trying to be a good president. I can sum up my feelings about his administration with one word - dishonest. Yes, I realize it's ok for them to lie because they're politicians and everyone expects it, but it still bugs me. GW has zero credibility and nothing positive to report from his first term, and I just didn't believe the swift boat vets. Kerry looked like the better guy to me.

Originally Posted by Kitsune

This, I think, is the most interesting aspect of this whole ordeal. This is not a generational gap -- the split cannot be defined by age!

No, unlike the Vietnam era; this is not so much a generational conflict. While idealogies were certainly important in the shisms that tranfixed the nation back in the late 60's and early 70's, today I would say that the split is purely along the lines of idealogy and political philosophies. My friend who is 25 years younger and I both worked for the Kerry campaign.

Originally Posted by Kitsune

For the moment, I'd like to see a true understanding between both sides. A "why did you vote the way you did?" discussion so that we can, at least, figure out why this divide exists, where it comes from, etc. But, sadly, they always break down online to yelling matches. Try it in real life, sometime. If both sides keep their heads, you really do learn an amazing amount about each side and that opinions don't have to be taken in anger.

I don't know, Kitsune. It seemed to me that we all hashed this one out pretty thoroughly in our pre-election threads. What could anyone say that wouldn't be flogging a dead horse?

[Kitsune]

What could anyone say that wouldn't be flogging a dead horse?

Agreed. In that case, outside any physical intervention that would border on disruption or illegal, the only thing anyone can do is write letters, make themselves heard, and try again next time.

Until then, continue making your way through life, don't stress about all of this too much, and try to be nice and festive when the holidays come around. You know, eggnog all. :p

No, really, everyone should relax. No sense in stressing or worrying about what is already done.

Now, for any of you that want to start a rebellion against the government... well, you go right ahead. I'll be behind you all the way. Back here. Way behind you.

[Griff]

Originally Posted by jinx

I am registered L. I agree with many traditionally R tenets; smaller government, fewer social programs etc., and many on the D side being 'liberal', non-religious, female etc. I haven't seen F911, I never voted before this election and I was really glad when Gore didn't win.

Yah, what ever happened to the Main Street Republican? Work hard, myob etc... I keep talking to religous folks who voted for Bush because of some mystic connection with him. If any candidate was the devils own it's the folksy war mongering bastard from Texas. I don't often curse out loud in the car but I fired off a few today especially when that piece of human filth David (axil of evil) Fromme (sp) started up with his crap in an interview on NPR, discussing how they went after the "christian" vote. When you convince pro-lifers that bombing babies is morally superior to killing them in the womb you've done a nice piece of work.