COMMAERNTTARY GET TOGETHER By Dick Crippen MARCH/APRIL 2017 | TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE 139 You may feel like I do. I am a little upset about what’s happening in our great country, a country that has set the standards for countries around the world, a country where people want to come because of our freedom and opportunities. You may think I am about to launch into some political tirade, but that’s not where I am going. I don’t care who you voted for and am sure that you voted based on your beliefs. I’m your friend regardless. The election is over, and now it is time to come together as a country and move forward. I recently have done something I have never done before. I “unfriended” some people on Facebook. I did it not because I don’t like them anymore, in fact, I do like them and consider them friends in my social world. However, I am finding it difficult to stand up to their constant negativity. I get nothing positive from negative viewpoints. I can assure you that a Facebook post, or any other social media post, is not going to change my opinion on things about which I feel strongly. I have always been a big believer in civil discourse where people can respect each other’s opinions without using name-calling. That offended me as a child, and it still offends me today. I think some people have forgotten that although we elect leaders, those leaders are only there to represent us. It’s the representation and balance of power that makes this country great. Rioting, looting, rock throwing and foul language don’t serve as building blocks for greatness. Those types of actions are disrespectful to the foundations that make this country what it is. I can understand that some people believe the best way to support a cause is by protesting, and I support their right to protest. My problem is the way they protest. They should protest for change in a positive manner. Gandhi recognized that peaceful protests were the only ones that made sense, and that violence hampers and can ultimately destroy movements. I have faith. I believe in the United States. I have traveled enough to learn that this is by far, the best country in the world. We can have protests and disagreements that will help this country move forward as it strives to continue its greatness. But to do so we all have to work together as we try to find the best way to deal with each problem as it arises. Together we will continue to be the greatest country on Earth. 9 EDITOR’S NOTE: Dick Crippen, a staple in Tampa Bay broadcasting for more than 40 years, is a senior adviser for the Tampa Bay Rays, and works extensively with the military. He is active in the world of charity fundraising and sits on 11 boards for nonprofit organizations. Dick Crippen
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