I want to support my beliefs about abortion, gay marriage, but honestly...I'm worried if I started protesting or petitioning...someone who didn't support me would burn down my house or attack my child. Or, to a lesser extent, have someone say offensive things to me or loose a friend? Do you share that fear or do you fight for what's right despite the consequences?
2007-12-26 11:12:13 · 8 answers · asked by Rachel R 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
I have had the same fears and have had to hold my tongue many a time. You should start small, support a political candidate who supports your beliefs. Help with mailings or something once you start stretching your right to free speech amoung those who are friendly you will begin to figure out ways of letting people know what you believe in ways that will not scare them or you.
2007-12-26 11:29:27 · answer #1 · answered by JoBirdieanna 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Fear of rejection or reprisal looms over all of our actions, from personal relationships to political affiliation...the question is what is of greatest value to you.
It is a difficult thing to make your true self known in public, because once you do you lose a certain amount of control in your relationship with the world. Why do you think so many people love to get on Yahoo! Answers and be abrasive and snide? It is because the anonymity of the forum provides a safe place for some to do what they lack the courage to do in real life.
As I grow older, I often think of Nathan Hale, the American patriot credited with the famous "I regret having but only one life to lose in service to my country.." line. Do you recall that he was 21-years old when he faced his executioner....21! Today, that's an age when most don't even know what their priorities are, let alone for which one they would willingly give their lives. Life provides you opportunities everyday to make a stand...or not....There will always be fear. The question is what is worth overcoming that fear for you?
Hopefully, you will be able to sort out your priorities for yourself. Just choose your battles wisely.
2007-12-26 11:30:18 · answer #2 · answered by u_bin_called 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It depends on your environment. Some people associate almost entirely with people of their own political/religious persuasion and run no risk by expressing their personal opinions. Most of us who are cursed with open minds, however, have to be careful. We are surrounded by good people who cleave to beliefs which we may consider irrational. It generally does no good to personally challenge the religious or political beliefs of others-- there are times when group action can be effective-- but for every march to Selma there's a Tienamen Square.
Live your convictions and vote them. It's not necessary to publicize them unless you're in a position to be heroic without harming others.
2007-12-26 12:04:55 · answer #3 · answered by alex42z 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've been active online for over 10 years in politics. At one point I owned and ran a public site that got over a million visitors in one campaign along (Gore vs Bush in 2000); and never had a problem until about 18 months ago. An idiot really did go out of his way to make my life miserable with calls to my wife and employer.
So sadly I have to say - stay anonymous - it does not hurt your integrity of your positions.
2007-12-26 11:17:57 · answer #4 · answered by netjr 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Be a true American and speak up for what you believe. Today's issues are more complicated than in 1776 when people worried about the British. There are people who think like you EVERYWHERE and there are places that you can write to, especially your congressmen.
Everything you believe in protects ALL of our
RIGHTS. You Go!! Don't be a sheep and don't be afraid of the Neoconservatives. That's just what they like. FEAR.
Save America and speak your mind! We're rooting for you!
2007-12-26 11:23:29 · answer #5 · answered by ToYou,Too! 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I dont worry about it, but I dont live in some ultra-backwards place like Oklahoma or something. If you do, youre probably right to worry. Those people are similar to islamic fundies.
2007-12-26 11:17:18 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
She could be right - standing up for your beliefs might also require you to die for them - be a little flexible?
But when it really matters, then you have no choice.
2007-12-26 11:26:52 · answer #7 · answered by Gwyhir 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The your beliefs are not that important to you if you are unwilling to be public about them.
2007-12-26 11:14:54 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋