It has been almost six years since my last entry.  I didn’t stop writing after three blog posts because things dramatically improved, nor because I like the direction my country is going any more than I did six years ago.  I haven’t written because I wanted to make my blogs more meaningful by researching and by providing references to cite historical evidence supporting my perceptions, reflections, and assertions. I realized long ago that I don’t have the time (or won’t make the time) to be a good journalist as a blogger.  Even so, I still desire to express myself and to sharpen my positions (or change them, as necessary).

Rather than continuing to avoid the risk of exposing my ignorance and misconceptions, I will now embrace the opportunity to say something new and meaningful from time to time. I hope others will read and comment to correct me when my logic on issues or recollection of history is hopelessly at odds with reality, or to praise me when I say something that seems true and meaningful.  I thank you in advance.  In any case, I will stop hiding my positions and perspectives from the internet.  I plan to post a blog at least once every two weeks.  As such, they may be a little raw.  I hope to improve with experience.

I realize I am exposing myself to one of the cruelest mediums, but I assure the readers of my blog I will try to be honest and open minded.  I will also not take comments personally even if they are meant that way. This is my chance to stand on a box in the town square and make my opinions known.  Feel free to (virtually) throw fruits, vegetables, and rotten eggs at my posts.

I will retain the perspective of a candidate running for President of the United States as a writing device since it should be one requiring thought and careful articulation.  I have (mostly) refrained from making political postings on social media because most of the things I read are not balanced and fair, and the language is not well chosen.  The posts and accompanying comments seem reactionary and closed minded (tribal).  So much so, I feel any comment I might make would be a waste of time.

Finally, I expect to alienate some readers with each issue I explore.  The current political climate is polarized and tribal.  The “base” wants to hear some things, and it doesn’t want to hear others.  Furthermore, each side has highlighted instances in which opposing political leaders have shown themselves to be intellectually dishonest by changing their positions on issues as a result of positions taken by their opponents.  They expose themselves as political opportunists because they do not select their positions as a result of any virtuous or sincere philosophy.  Rather, they are guilty of political expediency as they pander to their base in order to retain power and control.  I hope I can live up to the standard I am creating here.

The journey begins anew….