No, I don’t feel that way because I’m a “liberal.”

“You feel that way because you’re a liberal,” quoth a perturbed, conservative acquaintance.

​Actually, no. 

I don’t do anything because I’m a “liberal.” Nor do I know any other so–called “liberals” who do anything at all because they’re “liberals.” They may exist, but I haven’t met them.

I don’t think of myself as a “liberal.” It is not, for me, an identity.

“Liberal” is a term that some affix to me because of what I feel, do, and decide. It comes after the fact. What comes before the fact? In my case it’s fact–checking, reasoning, and engaging in empathy, all while remaining open to a change of mind and heart if and as I learn more. 

By contrast, “conservative” seems to be very much an identity for many. Not a few conservatives have out–and–out told me they take certain stands because, well, because they’re conservatives. Why do you feel that way? “Because I’m a conservative.” Why did you vote for that candidate? “Because I’m a conservative.” Why do you support / oppose this measure? “Because I’m a conservative.” That it’s circular reasoning doesn’t seem to give them pause.

For the record, here’s where my fact–checking, reasoning, and empathy have led me as of this writing:

• I believe humans are one family. No population is intrinsically inferior or superior, worthier or unworthier.
• I believe that empathy, humility, compassion, fairness, and equity matter, and that they matter a hell of a lot more than the economy, which also matters.
• I believe that acknowledging factors beyond one’s control, for the successful as well as the destitute and all in–between, helps breed empathy, humility, compassion, fairness, and equity.
• I believe that no one should be deprived of food, shelter, or medical care.
• I believe that racism is real, that anti-racism is imperative, and that the latter demands our ongoing vigilance.
• I believe that I have no say in anyone’s sexual orientation and / or gender.
• I believe that unbridled capitalism is a prescription for inequity and injustice.
• I believe that democracy is not without danger, especially without built–in protections for the rights of the minority.
• I believe in freedom of thought and of religion, and that such is possible only to the extent that government and religion stay out of one another’s business.
• I believe the environment is in danger and that we damn well better wake up.

​Because I believe these things, some people  call me a “liberal.” Like it’s a bad thing.