Political Pebbles

JD recently reminded me of something a college friend of mine did. Michelle was concerned that she was talking too much and not really listening to others. I don't remember the duration, but think that for about a week, she decided to try an experiment. She found a small, smooth pebble. Michelle cleaned it and put it in her mouth. Keeping that pebble on her tongue was to be a constant reminder to listen and observe those around her.

I feel a strong urge to buy several cubic yards of pebbles so I can mail them out to all of the politicians, pundits, and wingnuts that MUST HAVE THEIR VOICE HEARD!

I'm all for political discussion and debate, but just as Monty Python taught us, an argument isn't just contradicting what the other person said. Don't expect a lot of sympathy from those in the "center" or somewhat apathetic to your issue if you keep saying those that don't agree with you are (insert insult here - evil, unpatriotic, racist, socialist, psychotic, inhumane, etc.). On the other side of the coin, let us not forget that just because someone is ranting doesn't mean their arguments are invalid.

Please take a pebble and take turns listening for just a while. It may not be as exciting but I bet we could accomplish a lot more.