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