Oh boy.
Well.
Where to start?
I don’t know what my deal is. Big words might suffice, but a meme is superior. (Ha.)
I make a common mistake, thinking my opinion’s value is somehow enhanced by appearing on a screen.
Ironically, that’s exactly the point that’s been rattling around in my head.
Screens. Opinions. Platforms.
Man, the “media” isn’t helping matters, is it? The shiny TV people, after missing the obvious trends so badly, are doubling down on “how horrible America is.”
“But we’re right this time, guys.”
Those ivory towers are so high, they must be getting dizzy from lack of oxygen. Did you see Joe Scarborough surprised that butter was over $3? His wife corrected him.
“$7.”
The New Media (X, blogs, podcasts, and independent journalism), is emerging as the big winner of this election cycle. Someone made the point that it’s a significant as the first televised election cycle.
But there’s a lot of petty gloating on display. It’s not helpful, but it’s being called out. Here’s a great example.
Next Steps
I’m an action guy. I’m convinced that our personal to-do list is endless when it comes to building the immediate world right around us.
Now, it’s talking with friends if they want to, and especially if they think differently. It’s reading, learning, sharpening. (Jon Haidt’s The Righteous Mind is essential, and I’ll keep saying it.)
A conversation has something no shiny TV set can ever obtain: a genuine two-way dialogue, and the uncomfortable habit of forcing me to think for myself. If I had a dollar for every time I had to yield the polish of an idea that was perfect in my head, but tarnished under scrutiny…
Well, I’d be able to afford butter.
It seems like “the topic” is best discussed over coffee, in person. The election is over, but our work begins. The good news is: we get to work together. I like people. Love them, actually. Let’s see what we can do.
The list is long, but it’s also fuzzy, vague, and I’m not quite sure where to start. So, I’ll do what I always do, and talk.
If you’re mad or sad or happy or curious, or wish to discuss in any way, the email is always online, the phone’s always handy, and the door’s always open. I’ve got coffee.
I’m not buying those seeds of division they’re selling on TV.
I’ve spent all my money on butter.
Come on by, and have some toast.
–Josh