There exists an internal conflict when I publish online. Am I writing to entertain others, or am I writing for myself in the truest sense of a diary, so I can look back at my younger self later in life? Obviously the aim is to be heard. Otherwise, there is no purpose in publishing online. Another indicator is writing in the second person, which acknowledges the reader directly. With that said, please know the “you” referenced in this entry is intended for the willing and imaginary listener in my head, and is oddly a means of helping me figure things out on a personal level.

Like many others, I, too, am disappointed with the outcome of the election and not just because my views were on the unpopular side. I'm disappointed that the people who uphold the president's religious beliefs don't respect the basic human rights of others. I don't remember much from Sunday School, but I do remember the golden rule; do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

A majority of America voted “Yes” on Amendment #1, which will result in making gay unions unconstitutional across the board. America loves when queers makeover straight people, but apparently hates when gays and lesbians get to decide whether or not their partner stays on a life support machine. Don't agnostic homosexuals have the same cognitive reasoning as Christian heterosexuals? Apparently not on Bush's Animal Farm where, “All animals are created equal… but some are more equal than others.”

People believe in higher powers because it gives them a sense of being. Some say God is awesome. Others worship Vishnu or praise Allah. Claiming any religion to be false just because you don't share the same views is ignorant. If worshipping the sun provides me with a sense of being, who are you to tear me down? Spirituality gives meaning to one's existence. Just because one person's beliefs differ from another does not invalidate the sense of purpose that either of them feel. People need to respect each other. Those who are agnostic or atheists don't need to be told that their beliefs are incorrect, just as gays and lesbians should not be penalized for choosing to live how they see fit.

I drove behind an SUV with a license plate that read “NUKEM2.” Does the driver really believe that we should nuke a land as an answer to indifferences? I have enough sense to know it's an opinion (albeit without regard or compassion), and you can not tell someone they are wrong for having an opinion. However, I am tired of feeling vulnerable to outspoken people who think that whoever yells the loudest has the most truth. I strongly encourage people to document their feelings, even if it remains for their eyes only. It's critical to explore your views and come to personal conclusions. As for my own quest, I've learned that popular opinion does not make an outcome ethical.