I logged on today and saw one of the GOP's favorite dirty tricks in action here at DU. It is called DIVIDE AND CONQUER. You make your political enemies do your work for you by getting them to squabble among themselves.
The enemy is not Al Franken or Bill Clinton or Keith Olberman. The enemy is Karl Rove.Right now, Karl Rove is attempting to divide the left into two camps.
One thinks that all our efforts should be directed towards relief efforts for tsunami victims. As Bill Clinton said so eloquently last night on Larry King, this is America's chance to regain what we had during Kosovo and Bosnia---the world's belief that we are here to help people regardless of their religion or ethnicity. It is an excellent way to help bridge perceived cultural barriers, decreasing hate and terror.
The other thinks that America will continue to spiral down into a wasteland of corruption which will harm the entire world unless steps are taken now to preserve and protect our democratic process.
BOTH CAMPS ARE ABSOLUTELY RIGHT!
Fortunately, there are more than enough of us to do the work of both. Hell, some of us can even take part in both endeavors. They are not mutually exclusive. And I will let you in on a secret. We will get even more work accomplished if we do not waste time denegrating what the other side is doing.
Here is a strategy that might be helpful. If you see someone engaged in the other camp's work, compliment him/her on his/her efforts. If that person criticizes you for being engaged in your camp's work do not take offense. Rather say something positive like "Solidarity, brother!" or "Solidarity, sister!"
One final word. Karl Rove isnt really the enemy. His actions are the enemy. Big difference. If you can remember that, you will have absolutely no problem remembering that your brothers and sisters her at DU are your friends.