Be A Good Listener

Armchair politics is one of the great American pastimes. Unlike armchair quarterbacks though, armchair politicians are always in season. Although I am not entirely certain I was present when the game was invented, someone seems to have asked the American people, "What would you do if you were President?" At least, I think that's what happened because everyone acts as if they have the answer. If they didn't at least have an answer, then they shouldn't be complaining. Complaining doesn't do anybody any good. It's a waste of energy. Patience is a virtue, complaining is not. People who complain without having a solution in mind are people who don't play armchair politics by the rules. Perhaps they don't know the rules.

Rule #1- Be A Good Listener

To play armchair politics it is wise to listen before speaking. When your path is crossed by someone spouting political complaints, ask them what their solution is to the problem. How they answer this question will give you clues as to how to proceed. If they don't have a solution, then their complaints should be ignored. They don't care enough about the problem to discuss it intelligently. They don't know enough about the problem to have their opinion. Their opinion actually belongs to someone else they admire, most likely a media spokesperson of some sort.

It is also wise to pay attention to their questions. Are they asking you any questions? If they are not asking you about your views, then they are not interested in what you think. There is no point in getting into a debate with someone who doesn't care what you think. They have already made up their minds. Listen to their solutions. Maybe they've thought of something you haven't.

It is the philosophy of this blog that armchair politics, when played properly, might be a useful tool to solving some of the current political problems. It is unrealistic to think everyone will agree on any or all issues. We may, however, through being good listeners, become more understanding. In large part, politics is about learning the fine art of compromise.

To follow the story this blog tells you must read the entries in the order in which they were written.


Copyright © 2009 Annette Fortunato

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