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Liberalism – at its best – is based on the principle of supporting each human being to fulfill the potential that lies within each of us. Liberals support governments and institutions that promote individual freedom and oppose forces that would restrict it. Rather than backing long-term dependency on government programs, real liberals promote efforts that recognize and develop the potential in every human being. They strive to create respectful dialogue toward solutions to the problems that beset us based upon what best serves the interests of the greatest number of people. They know that flexibility is not a weakness but a strength that has the potential to help us resolve the problems of our day.

Many who consider themselves liberals have faith that government can make our country a better place. They support programs that help the disadvantaged and provide opportunities for those who have fallen behind. But these programs only succeed in the long-term when they prepare people to take greater responsibility for their lives to the extent of their ability – when they create sustainable employment in skills that allow individuals the pride of being contributors to their society. Liberals believe in eliminating inequalities in our society that deny people fair opportunities and that contribute to suffering.

It must never be forgotten that the basis of liberalism is valuing the individual, including those with whom we disagree. Real liberals persuade others by their passionate commitment to this principle. They are not ideologues who hold that their view of the world is right above all others. They do not automatically oppose those who consider themselves conservative – or anyone. Attacking those with whom we disagree – rather than seeking solutions - only moves us farther from a resolution to our issues.

Liberals often consider those who stand in the way of what they consider progress to be selfish servants of special interests who lack a broad perspective on what is good for our country. But true liberals strive to create a renewed vision of what is possible for our country and they engage in dialogue to implement that vision. They understand that when we bring out the potential in others we experience the potential in ourselves. Blame keeps us from seeing others – and ourselves – as worthwhile individuals and from working together to resolve our issues. A true liberal is an advocate of tolerance and respect – both in principle and in the course of everyday living. Our country moves in a positive direction when our leaders express a vision of respectful interactions that inspires us to work with others to meet the challenges of our times.

Our founders were successful revolutionaries because they set aside their differences to forge a common vision. When we demonstrate genuine respect toward those with whom we disagree – as well as those who agree with us - we move toward a nation and world at peace. Our greatest challenge is overcoming the mistrust of those with whom we disagree and learning to work together toward the world we envision, which must be expressed not only by words, but by the example of those who would lead. Government itself cannot make our country – and thus our lives – more productive and viable. This can only be done through the determination and cooperation of those who unite to create a clear vision of what is possible for our world and for each of its inhabitants.