Thursday, October 30, 2008

Being George Will II

My mother, a die-hard liberal, followed George F. Will and William F. Buckley with great interest. She did not so much admire or agree with their politics. What she admired most was their ability to disseminate their ideas, whether written or spoken.

As I read George Will's Op-Ed piece in the Washington Times this evening, I smiled. My mother would have not only appreciated the fluent and persuasive manner with which he wrote, but the very message as well.

In many respects, a die-hard liberal could have written this very article.

8 comments:

JOHN O'LEARY said...

Judith, I too have enjoyed Will's and Buckley's columns and media appearances over the years. WB's "Firing Line" was one of my favorite TV shows. I had little opportunity to watch it so I mailed away for transcripts on occasion.

Judith Ellis said...

John - I grew up on "Firing Line." We could only watch 30 minutes of "fun" stuff and one hour of shows like "Little House on the Prarie" as we grew up. But we could watch, along with my mother, such shows like "Firing Line." We were also expected to think of something to say during the commercial--never any pressure, but there were usually free flowing debates.

Catherine Vibert said...

You too, shaped by your mother. Wonderfully thoughtful and insightful.

Judith Ellis said...

Thank you, catvibe, for your encouraging words. It is often the kindness of others that spurs us to move forever forward. I often write of my mother here because she was truly amazing. How this single mother raised 12 very independent children who make contributions to their community and the world (some to a greater and others to a lesser extent) is remarkable. Thanks again for your kind words. Words matter.

Anonymous said...

Judith...it is rare and most encouraging to see someone speak from a personal rather than a political party perspective. I know this election has made me really think about that choice for many reasons. I will be voting later this afternoon and have no idea who I will choose. The decision will come down to one question. A question that has nothing to do with supporting a candidate or their party. A personal not a party choice, which to me is the essence living in a democracy.

As I cast my ballot I will be thinking of one thing. It will on thanking and honoring the folks, past, current and those in the future who serve to protect and defend my right to make that choice!

Judith Ellis said...

Dave - Thank you for your comment. I have had a very difficult time believing that there are actually those out there who do not know at this point who they will vote for. I sincerely had my doubts about this. I have asked myself repeatedly--who are these people????

Now that I see that you are among these who are undecided, I will lessen my doubt, and somewhat relative disdain of such indecision, and take heart that a wonderful person who I have come to respect is unsure of the choice to date.

I honor your right to choose. But, of course, if you have spent anytime here at all you well know who I will be voting for. All the very best, Dave. I appreciate your words.

Anonymous said...

Judith...my decision on who to vote for in the Presidential race was actually the last choice I made on the ballot. It was not a vote for or against either candidate or party. It was a vote for Dr. Martin Luther King and moving our nation closer to the day we will finally achieve his dream.

Judith Ellis said...

Bravo, my friend, Dave! Bravo! You would have remained such regardless of your vote.