Opinion

 – By G. Miller Thompson –

The saying “ignorance is bliss” has never made much sense to me. Ignorance is ignorance. Calling it bliss is an excuse that someone came up with because they were tired of caring. When people stop caring, well, ignorance takes over. By succumbing to the lack of interest, we become an ignoramus. I cannot speak for you, but I certainly do not want such a term to define me.

When it comes to politics, too many people choose the route of ignorance because the news each evening is far from uplifting. Listening to the day’s headlines ruins one’s mood so they zone out. We each have created a perfect world in our minds; however, the real world does not disappear simply because we choose to ignore it. I strongly believe that we, as Americans, have a duty to make ourselves aware of what is happening in our country.

I am often told that politicians are difficult to understand. Many elected officials seem to enjoy placing themselves upon a pedestal and speaking in terms that few understand. As a result, folks quit listening.

My goal for this column is to present important issues in a manner that is interesting and educational. We are at a point in American history where we simply cannot afford to be politically apathetic. We must hold our elected officials accountable for their actions whether you voted for them or not. So long as the majority of Americans adopt this apathy, Washington is free to run its course—even if that means running right over you and me.

Together we can make a difference. Edgefield has produced ten governors and many other persons of influence. I believe we can start a revolution in American politics right here in our town. Will you be a part of that?

I would like to start a series in which I attempt to answer your questions. If you have questions you would like answered or a topic you would like to be discussed, I want to know about it. Send me an e-mail with your thoughts at miller@edgefieldadvertiser.com. I look forward to hearing from you!

As a conservative voice in a secular society, adversity is inevitable. That being said, adversity is what makes our voices even stronger. We must first challenge our own beliefs before effectively handling challenges by opposing perspectives. I hope this series will be a tool with which we can challenge beliefs and soon we will accumulate a war chest of principles that certainly will be a reckoning force in an ever-changing society.

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The views and opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of The Edgefield Advertiser.

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