I'm ashamed at all the extremely vocal outbursts, rallies and protests by conservative individuals at town hall meetings around the country. Shouting things about socialism and "No Obamacare" might not be a big deal in small doses. But multiply the outrage of one person by hundreds, and you've got a big, fat, angry mob.
I'm not necessarily opposed to anyone with an opposing view to mine (and being so extremely liberal it's probably going to happen often); if I'm entitled to my opinion then they are most certainly most welcome to theirs. What I have a problem with is people acting on their fears - fears that have been fueled by untruths, outright lies and ignorance (with maybe an underlying amount of racism).
People scream that they're angry because Obama is a "socialist." Yet I doubt that any of then actually KNOW what socialism is -- or that there are many forms of socialism. They complain about health care reform while they sit in comfy homes, knowing that THEY have health insurance. They seem unable to view the bigger picture, seem completely incapable of understanding that this will affect the Have Nots not the Haves.
Their behaviour at town hall meetings, and at protests, may seem to have an impact. But I feel that intelligent American people will see this as nothing more than ignorance personified. The protesters and those anti-Obama anything seem like nothing more than angry toddlers in the midst of a tantrum. The louder they seem to yell, the stupider they seem, and the more I tune them out.
So in that light, if they want to be taken seriously they need to follow the same advice that I've given many a toddler over the past few years:
1. Don't interrupt - especially when grownups are talking.
2. Wait your turn.
3. If you're angry, tell me so. Don't hit, yell or scream.
4. Don't lie. Lies will only get you in more trouble.
5. Remember your indoor voices. Loud voices are for outside. Speak quietly inside.
6. If you have a tantrum, you will be put in Time Out.
7. Use your words. Whining and screaming will not get you what you want. Talking nicely will get you heard.
Their behaviours and attitudes are certainly childish and immature. I only hope that the rest of the country is made up of grownups.