GUEST COLUMN, J Basil Dannebohm, Rollins School of Public Health

 

There’s a Japanese proverb that says, “One kind word can warm three winter months.” If the rhetoric of recent days is any indication, we’re in for a frigid winter.

Recently, Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski, co-hosts of MSNBC’s Morning Joe, shocked viewers when they chose to “restart communications” with Donald Trump. Since 2020, Morning Joe has been less about “news” per se and more about relentless attacks on the 47th President of the United States. Referring to Mr. Trump as a “fascist” and comparing him to Hitler was music to the ears of their far-left audience. When Scarborough informed viewers of the Mar-a-Lago meeting, Morning Joe got iced.

Rival network CNN alleged the meeting was called because of retaliation threats posed by the incoming administration. That’s rich considering CNN is hardly the poster child of fair and impartial journalism. Byron York, chief political correspondent for the Washington Examiner, tweeted, “Annals of shamelessness: They call Trump a fascist, and much, much more, and then, just 22 days after his ‘Nazi-like’ rally, they fly to Florida for an audience.”

The criticisms from CNN and York paled in comparison to the court of public opinion who took to X (formally Twitter) to air their grievances.

“Imagine being a liberal and listening to Morning Joe and Mika tell you for years that Trump is a threat to democracy … Then one morning you wake up and hear Comrade Mika admit that they bent the knee to Trump,” one disgruntled viewer tweeted.

The next day, Scarborough defended the decision to meet with the president-elect saying, “All of us are going to do the best we can do, and we’re all working towards a better America.”

He continued by pointing out what he said was a “massive disconnect” between “social media and the real world.”

Good morning, Joe. You finally noticed it, eh? Take it from me, Mr. Scarborough, most people aren't loyal to you. They’re loyal to their need of you. Once their needs change, so does their loyalty. Similarly, most people find anger addictive because it makes their egos feel righteous, justified or victimized. Pointing a finger at somebody else is much easier than examining one's own shadows.

If you’re a gambler, it’s probably a safe bet that Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski have been what the left affectionately refer to as “cancelled.”

The reality is something we registered Independents have known for years: neither side wants to “work toward a better America.” Rather, the far left and the far right alike seek an America that conforms entirely to their respective agendas. Anything less is wholly unacceptable. The days of statesmanship, give-and-take, and bipartisanship are long gone. As the late Senator Joseph Lieberman observed, “It is the partisan polarization of our politics which prevents us from making the principled compromises on which progress in a democracy depends.”

Dr. Michael R. Liebowitz, a Columbia University psychiatrist and founder of the Anxiety Disorders Clinic at the New York State Psychiatric Institute noted, “It is easy to win people over by an appeal to their anger, hatred, and fear. It is more difficult to win them over by appealing to their reason, optimism, and hope. Still, it is much better to take the latter route."

That becomes increasingly difficult as anti-intellectualism steadily becomes a pandemic in our nation. I’ve taken blows from both sides of the political spectrum. When I urged people to stop clutching their pearls over the Opening Ceremonies of the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, my inbox was peppered with hate mail from “do as I say, not as I do” Christians and virtue signaling conservatives. Pointing out the hypocrisy of the hyper-woke, radical left inevitably meets the same fate.

There’s a line in the much-anticipated theatrical release of Wicked wherein the Wizard of Oz states, “The best way to bring folks together is to give them a real good enemy.”

But what about when the perceived “enemy” is half the nation? How do “folks” heal from such a dangerous divide?

Communication – listening, not just hearing, is imperative – even if it makes us uncomfortable. People who can't communicate think everything's an argument; and people who lack accountability think everything is an attack. As Kierkegaard observed, “People demand freedom of speech as a compensation for the freedom of thought, which they seldom use."

All aboard the Polar-ization Express! At the rate we’re going, this is indeed going to be a very long, very cold winter.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR — J. Basil Dannebohm is a writer, speaker, consultant, former legislator and intelligencer. His website is www.dannebohm.com. He writes from the Washington DC metro in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

2815 comments

  • Seeking effective malaria treatment can be a complex endeavor. Yet, buying names for generic prednisone has never been simpler.

    Ensure you find the best cost for nizagara by searching through our options.

    Get the heart medication easily with https://sadlerland.com/product/tadalista/ , available without hassle.

    Many are looking for effective solutions for ED, and cialis offers a tested option.
  • X-plore cost-saving options for antiviral therapy; canada tadalafil pharmacy is your gateway to budget-friendly virus management.

    Zillions pursue effective hair loss solutions; on line ventolin presents a hopeful alternative.

    Browse our site to buy your necessary heart medication conveniently—https://helpo.org/nizagara/ .

    To discover about improving feminine libido without a doctor's prescription, explore our lowest price cialis .
  • Obtain the remedy for improved female health with buying cialis on line , available on our site.

    For individuals seeking enhanced performance, generic levitra offers a cutting-edge solution.

    Considering various options to control your BPH symptoms? Discover how you can obtain https://beingproficient.com/flomax/ on the internet, offering a convenient solution to alleviate discomfort.
  • Browse the site to find amoxicillin 250mg , ensuring you secure premium antibiotic options at unbeatable prices.

    Zero hassle to control your intraocular pressure issues with stromectol . Preorder now and see the change.

    When seeking a cost-effective solution for your antibacterial needs, consider tapping into the convenience of https://leadsforweed.com/drug/doxycycline/ . This online pharmacy offers a broad assortment of non-brand medications that cater to various health conditions efficiently.
  • Considering immediate antibiotic needs, acquiring doxycycline hyclate 100mg through the internet ensures a rapid solution.

    X-ray your options carefully when you consider to secure prescriptions from the web. Explore propecia buy cheap safely and responsibly.

    Visit our site to secure your supply of https://leadsforweed.com/product/tadalafil/ , guaranteeing economical treatment options.

    Many patients search for reliable treatment for bacterial infections. Whether you're battling skin conditions, respiratory infections, or STIs, buy doxycycline uk offer treatment.
  • Acquire your dose of hydroxychloroquine swiftly and without a prescription by visiting hydroxychloroquine canada mastercard .

    Optimize your health and wellness journey by visiting our extensive selection of affordable treatment options. Find cialis ciudad juarez to boost your vitality efficiently and safely.

    Get your youthfulness back with authentic HGH enhancers! Find https://theprettyguineapig.com/genuine-viagra-100mg/ and experience a more vibrant life.

    Visit tadalafil 10mg to secure your prescription.
  • Relieve your nasal symptoms with lasix prix avec ordonnance , now available for buying over the counter.

    Zap your ED worries away! Purchase your ED medication viagra online . This remedy is trustworthy and quick to find.

    Zero worries about where to find your ED solutions; visit https://castleffrench.com/pill/buy-viagra/ for a secure and private way to restore wellness.

    Keeping your digestive system regulated is crucial; discover how viagra can assist in easing constipation quickly.
  • Research shows that finding the buy nizagara online overnight is vital for individuals seeking economical solutions for their medical needs.

    Considering the complexities of managing bipolar disorder, many find relief through ventolin . Whether seeking to regulate emotional states, patients have several choices, yet some decide for this effective treatment.

    Keeping your digestive system healthy is crucial, and https://mynarch.net/estrace/ can assist. Explore options to obtain it through web pharmacies for optimal gastrointestinal well-being.

    Just realized you need tadalafil for your well-being? No need to fret! You can cialis 5mg simply and with confidence.
  • Relieve your BPH symptoms today! Find our range of flomax prices , specifically designed to improve your urination and overall well-being.

    Maximize your savings on stroke prevention medication by checking buy prednisone online cheap , where you can uncover competitive prices.

    Zap high prices with our exclusive https://leadsforweed.com/product/amoxil/ , and Bag your bottle of crucial antibiotics without hassle via our website.

    Just discovered a revolutionary solution for boosting your energy: aromasin for sale . Explore about this natural option.
  • Ensure optimal wellness and enhance your health with a powerful solution. Explore how to acquire prednisone coupon safely today.

    Discover excellent alternatives for managing your ailment efficiently with order 5mg cialis cheap online . Enhance your lifestyle now.

    Just purchased my supply of https://pittmanchiro.com/strattera/ , ensuring I maintain my health regimen effortlessly.
  • Just searching for relief from chronic nasal symptoms? Discover your solution with buy doxycycline online cheap . Easily secure your spray via our website for immediate alleviation.

    Get your Amoxicillin easily from canadian pharmacy amoxicillin , providing quick dispensation to meet your needs.

    Discover how to boost your stamina effortlessly with https://pittmanchiro.com/pill/finasteride/ , on sale online.

    Quickly acquire the vital medication with no hassle: doxycycline .
  • Exploring treatment options for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)? Discover how flomax for sale can help in alleviating urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate.

    Visit amoxicillin to purchase your medication on the web at incredible prices.

    When seeking an economical solution for your antimicrobial needs, think about tapping into the convenience of https://bulgariannature.com/item/doxycycline/ . This virtual drugstore offers a broad assortment of generic medications that cater to various health conditions efficiently.

    The need to purchase prescriptions without leaving home has never been more essential. Now, you can easily buy your doxycycline with just a few clicks.
  • Are you looking to alleviate your seasonal allergies without breaking the bank? Consider our amoxicillin 250mg . These budget-friendly options offer the equivalent relief from runny nose, and itchy eyes without the hefty price tag of name-brand versions.

    Are you searching for low-cost solutions to your allergic reactions? Look no further and tap prednisone to find the most competitive rates available today.

    Zero in on enhancing your vitality with https://carolinahealthclub.com/drugs/levitra/ , available now. Discover cost-effective solutions on the web.

    Discover affordable alternatives to the brand-name medication with amoxicillin 250mg , offering wide-ranging treatment for bacterial infections.
  • If you're considering managing your anxiety, quality sildalis may offer insights regarding a suitable treatment option, encompassing usage specifics and side effects.

    Explore the market for antimalarial drugs and find the retin a to ensure your health safety without breaking the bank.

    The need for reliable and convenient access to pharmaceuticals has never been greater. Find your options and acquire https://tnterra.org/priligy-30mg/ today.

    Secure the sildalis canada by shopping on websites.
  • Quickly discover the most cost-effective discount viagra 24 hour shipment on the web.

    Considering the necessity for dependable options for treating erectile dysfunction, it's crucial to discover a reliable source. viagra on internet presents a convenient route to procure your treatment safely.

    Finding the most affordable https://exitfloridakeys.com/product/prednisone-online-usa/ can be a daunting task. Check our site for amazing deals.

    You can acquire respite from upset stomach by ordering nexium via the internet.
  • You can buy your retin a online, offering a budget-friendly solution for your needs.

    Optimize your entertainment and excitement levels by exploring the myriad of games available at dipyridamole . Dive into a universe of excitement virtually.

    Before making a decision, discover https://fpny.org/buy-flagyl-online/ and compare prices to ensure you secure the optimum deal for your heart health medication.
  • Get your dostinex easily. Purchase the ocular solutions through our website.

    Uncover a route towards enhanced health with kamagra brand , now available sans a doctor's order.

    Secure your health with ease; procure your prescription effortlessly through our digital platform. For those managing cardiovascular conditions, https://glenwoodwine.com/zoloft/ now and maintain your wellbeing.
  • Zeroing in on lash enhancement? Buy your solution with lasix for sale , the leading choice for fuller lashes.

    Zinc supplements might be pivotal in enhancing your health, but when considering liver health specifically, nexium could be a game-changer. Explore our platform to purchase not only a solution that alleviates gallstone issues but also bolsters overall liver function.

    Acquiring https://tnterra.org/pharmacy-generic/ has never been easier, enabling users to access essential treatment without hassle.
  • Regain your vitality and enhance your physical fitness levels with the help of amoxicillin lowest price . Offering a solution for men seeking to balance their hormonal levels, this product is available for buying on the web.

    Purchasing affordable nizagara pills has never been easier, with numerous alternatives available on the internet. Secure your well-being today by opting for the best deal.

    Considering diverse treatment options, it's crucial to locate affordable solutions. For those seeking hormone therapy alternatives, https://rdasatx.com/nizagara/ offers a feasible choice.
  • Need to control premature ejaculation? Explore how dapoxetine paypal payment accepted can help in increasing sexual performance.

    Zero in on your health and wellness; to secure your ED solution without the hassle, check on line viagra for an anonymous, secure, and easy purchasing experience.

    Unlock access to various hormone replacement therapy solutions and buy your necessary prescriptions with ease. https://productreviewtheme.org/drugs/zithromax/ offers a wide range of choices for managing menopausal symptoms.

Comments are closed

The comments for this content are closed.

Pick a language

search

Sports

Squeaky Clean Weather report

Weather in Ashburn

10th December, 2024 - 5:35
Fog
43°F 41°F min 47°F max
7:18 16:47
Humidity: 90 %
Wind: 4.6 mph South
Visibility: 1,319 ft

Kansas News

Kansas Informer

Log in to comment