What does it take to be a uniter

[rogerashton]

rather than a divider?

1) The ability and willingness to listen to the ideas of others, understand them, and take them into account.

2) Compromise.

3) Pragmatism and attention to the facts. This includes a willingness to change when different facts come to light.

Now, anyone who takes that approach to politics is going to be accused of being a "waffler," of having "no deeply-held principles," and all that.

So whenever you hear the "waffler" bit, point out what it really means -- that John Kerry is a man who really can and will listen to all sides and unite the country.

[Kanary]

1. You're exactly correct!

You have very well listed the traits of a truly *great* communicator.

Our society is so into the football approach to life -- "Kick their ass" -- that we have a hard time really listening, and waging peace.

how 'bout the rest of us....

the same principles are at work right here at DU.

Generosity begins at home.

Kanary

[Mistress Quickly]

2. Well that's great and all

but what about bush being a flip-flopper? Wouldn't the same be said about him, he's just listening and changing?

** takes off Devil's advocate hat **

[rogerashton]

4. Well, Bush* is no pragmatist ....

The facts change, and he doesn't change ....

We have a government surplus? Time for a tax cut -- can't have government running at a profit!

Wups, the facts have changed! We have a deficit -- OK, cut taxes to, um, stimulate the economy. (Never mind that Keynesian economics is "discredited.")

Job loss recovery? That means we need a tax cut!

Emerging inflation? Tax cut!

and so on ....

[Mistress Quickly]

5. lol

[Bozita]

3. Simply repeat it over and over. Soon, many will believe it.

Goebbels told us a long time ago.