I Am Not A Liberal

And Neither Are Most Normal People

Photo by Gabriel McCallin on Unsplash

I never thought I’d be writing something like this, but with everything that has happened over the last few years, it feels like it’s time to dip my toe in.

And while I might get hate for some of my opinions, I don’t care. It’s something I’ve been thinking about, and it’s important to me, so here you go.

What is Liberalism?

On one side:

Liberalism is a multifaceted political and social philosophy centered on individual freedom, equality, and democratic governance.

Political Philosophy: Liberalism promotes individual rights, civil liberties, democracy, and free enterprise.

Social Attitude: It reflects openness to diverse opinions and behaviors, emphasizing tolerance and progress.

Economic Theory: Classical liberalism supports free markets, private property, and minimal government interference in economic affairs.

What is Conservatism?

For the other side:

Conservatism is a political and social philosophy that emphasizes the value of tradition, stability, and continuity.

Traditional Values: Conservatism is committed to preserving established customs, institutions, and moral values, often resisting rapid change or innovation.

Political Philosophy: It favors free enterprise, private ownership, limited government intervention, and a strong national defense.

Social Outlook: Conservatives often stress the importance of religion, family, and community, viewing society as an organic whole rather than a collection of individuals.

Neither are Bad

In and of themselves, neither is bad. They’re just ideals.

But news, social media, and extremists on both sides want to make you think otherwise. And the noise becomes overwhelming for the average person.

I Used to be Liberal

When I lived in Washington, I was very much a Lib. Or at least thought I was. I even looked the part with my blue, pixied-haired self. And I was very sheltered in terms of my politics.

What Changed?

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash

A couple of major things changed my political leanings:

Me Moving to a Red State

Yeah, Texas is very different than Washington.

And I wouldn’t even call San Antonio conservative; it’s a pretty neutral city. I mean, you can buy weed and see a guy wearing cowboy boots and a hat unironically on the same day.

But being outside the place and people I grew up with changed how I see the world.

Being exposed to people who not only have differing opinions but can also explain said opinions with evidence makes you reconsider your positions on issues.

The Bullshit Libs are Doing

Plus, with everything the progressives are doing, I don’t want to be associated with them: all the angry tantrums, threats, and the not-so-peaceful protests.

Not to mention the cheering over Charlie Kirk’s death, saying good riddance, and how his family is lucky, turned off so many people all over the political spectrum.

It’s not good.

So, What Am I

Photo by Laurin Steffens on Unsplash

I would call myself center-right.

Right-Wing Beliefs

I am a believer in our Amendment Rights, especially regarding free speech, privacy, and less government control. Everyone has the right to say what they want, whether or not you like it. It’s in our constitution.

I believe women should have their own spaces without worrying about who might enter them.

Left-Wing Beliefs

There are certain things the left advocates for that I agree with, such as certain reproductive rights, diversity, gender being a spectrum, gender affirming care for adults (not the kiddos because they’re still developing), and ensuring everyone has a safe space for people like them to go to.

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Overall, I lean more to the right, and the majority of my opinions have changed or been tweaked over the last two years. But my remaining stances that are more left-wing have solidified

And I think many are more or less like me—the non-insane people.

What Are Your Political Leanings?

Please let me know in the comments.

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