tolerance

So I've been thinking about this for a while. There was a kerfuffle at my school recently between the feminist people and the college republicans. They (the republicans) accused us of being hypocrites. We apparently project an ideal of tolerance, we appear to want to accept everyone and everything. Everything that is except conservative opinions.

Now this isn't the first time I've been accused of being a hypocrite so the claim hit me hard. But I think I've come up with a response I like.

Being frank for a moment, I think the republicans are wrong. I don't agree with their views on business, taxes, health care and abortion (among other things). However, I still love them and think they have a right to their opinions. We are all humans and we are connected through everyone and everything. What I can't stand is when people in positions of power (and let's face it, even Obama has occasionally caved to the will of the right) try to make laws based on their political beliefs. Especially since they are often influenced by their religious beliefs. I'm sorry but saying I can't get an abortion because God created that sacred life is ridiculous to me. That being said, I couldn't care less if you believe your life is sacred because God has a plan for you. The only way you'll annoy me is if you make me thank God for my American Freedom (cheers elementary school).

Ok so tolerance. I don't know about you but when I hear the word I think of like a crazy great aunt who just wants to talk about herself and her porcelain ferret collection. You don't want to sit there and listen, but you tolerate it because she's family. When I'm told my political ideology is tolerant of the gay community, something doesn't sit right with me. How could I merely put up with the gay community when they make up some of the best people I have ever known or could ever hope to know? I don't tolerate them and I don't accept them because that's a ridiculous statement. They are my people, my friends.

So there you go. I like the people, not their ability to control my life, and I love the gays for just being who they are. Please stop saying I'm a hypocrite. I'm not. Thanks.