Focus on what unites us, not what divides us

Tom Harper, Henderson

Saturday, April 11, 2009 | 2:05 a.m.

In Richard McCord’s Friday letter to the editor — headlined “Which ideology better serves U.S.?” — he lists things he believes distinguish liberals from conservatives and suggests that conservative philosophy best serves America and the rest of the world. Why is it that in political discourse some people choose to address the issues that divide us, such as liberal versus conservative?

Mr. McCord further suggests that conservatives have a monopoly on being unapologetic about being American. For the record, I embrace more liberal principles than conservative and I am unapologetic and very proud about being an American.

What I don’t understand is why we have to continue to engage in this discourse of divisiveness and not talk about what should be our most common attribute — love of country and putting patriotism before politics. I would remind Mr. McCord that the reason President Barack Obama won this state was because of how well he did in conservative rural areas of Northern Nevada.

Love of country and not purely political partisanship should be our common denominator and should be the driving force in making decisions that are best for the country, whether they be based on liberal or conservative principles.

As I’ve stated many times, as the condition of this nation and world worsens, it won’t matter whether you’re a liberal or a conservative but rather whether you’re a contortionist and you can kiss your rear end goodbye. So whether you’re a liberal or a conservative, love this country with all your heart and act accordingly, or you better start limbering up.