I have replied to a couple of the rediculous topics currently under discussion here on the forums and it got me thinking. I don't see anyone changing their minds. It really comes down to about 4 unnamed guys, 2 liberals, 2 conservatives, that seem to have plenty of time on their hands.

First question is, has any of their postings changed your mind? Do you think they are even trying to convince anyone? If not, what purpose does it serve? Granted, I am slightly entertained by it, like watching a friend endo on the trail. Its funny to see, but still sad. Whats worse is that I participate. How sad is that?

As far as politic go, my last real change of mind was in college in the early 90's. Being from Arkansas, I saw Clinton go from governor to president. But I became very disillusioned with the Democratic party, mostly because Clinton first told the state he would not run for president in '92. That is when I got turned on to the Libertarians. My rationale? From my middle class, white perspective, the country is doing a pretty good job of ensuring my social rights. There aren't many things that I want to do that the government bars me from. But on the conservative side, I feel pain constantly. My taxes are too high. Right now, my wife is working as a contractor on a 1099, so she has no taxes withheld. We set up a savings account to "save" the tax that we will have to pay at the end of the year. That account has more money in it than any other account we have. Sure we could have more and fix that problem, but when the government takes almost half of what you make, it isn't fair.

So I vote libertarian when I can. That means I vote for using drugs and paying for your own damn way. But don't expect me to use drugs and don't expect me to pay your way.