What does it mean to be a "Progressive". My interpretation of the word, particularly within the context of this website, is defined as "moving the ball forward." Specifically, electing the best Democrats to public office who will do just that. Strictly in terms of identification with the Democratic party, we have a VERY large tent. Within this tent are an entire panoply of persons of different colors, different income levels, different ages, different educational levels, different sexual preferences, and different perspectives of God, (religious preference) or no God at all. To me the commonality of this community is found in the word "different". Our differences, and our respect for our mutual differences is what MAKES us a community. Respect for our differences is the foundational pole of our very large tent, unlike the ever shrinking Republican tent where "other" is a dirty word. In other words, our collective respect for differences is what differentiates us from the Republican party which values "the same". That's simplistically put, but I believe accurate foundationally. I didn't know what a meta war was until I joined this community in 2008. Now I do. I've never engaged in one. Why? Because I don't see the point. Now, why do I feel this diary will invoke one? Maybe it will, but I don't care. I didn't come here looking for lockstep, nor am I asking you to drink Kool-Aid with me. This diary is about recognition of the various ways we come upon identifying ourselves as "Progressive" and respecting in a civil manner the differences of the various voices and viewpoints of others on this website. Respect. Follow me beneath the fold, please. Thank you.
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