When I was a Leftist, I thought I was compassionate. I thought I genuinely cared about others. But while I patted myself on the back for having so much empathy, I also lashed out at those who disagreed with me. I argued even when I made no sense. I argued even when I had no idea what I was talking about. I yelled and wondered how anyone could have a different perspective from my own. I viewed people as bigoted, racist, and homophobic just for expressing another viewpoint no matter how calmly and rationally they did so.
That was well written. It's really sad that so many people can't see that they are just as guilty of hatred (perhaps more so) as the people the are fighting against
I was hoping to read a more moderate approach, but I can only surmise that you must live in a fairly extreme leftist environment. I am a Midwestern liberal and although I love the people in my community... if politics comes up, I risk losing everything I hold dear. So, despite there being compassionate people around me... I still cannot completely trust them. I will probably eventually be moving back to a bigger Midwest city because I feel very alone.
That was well written. It's really sad that so many people can't see that they are just as guilty of hatred (perhaps more so) as the people the are fighting against
Projection.
I was hoping to read a more moderate approach, but I can only surmise that you must live in a fairly extreme leftist environment. I am a Midwestern liberal and although I love the people in my community... if politics comes up, I risk losing everything I hold dear. So, despite there being compassionate people around me... I still cannot completely trust them. I will probably eventually be moving back to a bigger Midwest city because I feel very alone.
This is a great essay Ashley! Thank you for your calm considered and rational voice!