September 4, 2012
Mr. Lee Saunders
President
American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees
1625 L Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20036-5687
Dear Mr. Saunders:
America had better wise up; the rest of the world wants the prosperity we have so long enjoyed and nearly monopolized, and they’ll work just as hard as we did to get it – they’ll work longer hours, for less pay, and with fewer rights and benefits to achieve prosperity.
This is a wake-up call for those who believe they are immune from the realities of the marketplace. But you know this; you know that American workers must be competitive in the global market. So why do you pursue an agenda that clearly has been created in a vacuum? Winning by any means, at any cost, has always been a losing proposition.
I can only surmise that your agenda is not to strengthen our nation nor contribute to restoring our vibrant economy. I believe you are one of the many bullies among us. Your pursuit is for your glory, your prestige, your power, your influence, and your fortune. History will not treat you kindly. I believe your legacy will be a constant humiliation to your posterity.
Sincerely,
Bill Monroe
Friday, December 14, 2012
Right-To-Work
Please help me understand how right-to-work laws are undemocratic, bad for workers and bad for the economy. The basic right of every American is the freedom of choice. In fact, our great prosperity can only be attributed to this fundamental principle of our liberty.
When opposing forces engage in the contest for the hearts and minds of their constituencies, it is this freedom of choice that fuels the energy, the passion, and the creativity of opposing arguments. It is this process that elevates and stretches us beyond the status quo to reach for the ideals we have embraced. It is the duty, responsibility, and obligation of any advocate to carefully, thoughtfully, and persuasively articulate and promote the legitimacy and worthiness of the cause. This is not the easy path but it is the one which ensures we prevent intentional abuses of our idealism.
To compel anyone to do anything is rarely, if ever, a good idea. In fact, coercion is the tool of the impotent and the incompetent and is an admission the argument is unworthy and indefensible. And this I have observed; those who employ the tactics of coercion and intimidation do so as a means to fulfill their personal ambitions without regard for the consequences to others. It is also the irrefutable evidence of their complete lack of trust and faith in our fellow citizen to make informed choices. Those who fail to inform and persuade become remnants of history and undeserving of our respect and admiration.
In nearly every other endeavor of the human spirit, it is the freedom of choice that propels great achievement. And if we know that to be true, why would we choose otherwise? Possibly because mandatory membership maximizes revenues and thereby inflates the union bosses’ power and influence, and control over those who would choose not to join. To refuse to join the union may be selfish and self-serving, but do we want to live in a society where our behavior, our affiliations are mandated by a controlling entity?
Right-to-Work laws reflect the essence of free markets which perpetually change and evolve to meet the ever-changing climate of supply and demand. Maintaining the status quo is the surest path to decline and failure. It is incongruent to believe the labor market should somehow be insulated from the certainty of economic cycles. And it is incongruent to want the benefits provided by free markets without accepting the attendant risk. Unions should accept the same degree of risk of failure as do the employers they serve. Allowing union membership to rise and fall in response to the economy is the safeguard against the union losing its vitality, its focus on the individual member, and its value to society. Free markets abhor any suggestion that anyone is entitled to anything. The past does not create an entitlement for the future -- change is the only constant in our lives and you either embrace it or be crushed by it.
The only conclusion we can draw from those who support mandatory union membership is they reject the principles of liberty, democracy and free markets in favor of a system that subjugates the individual's right to freedom of choice. Centralized planning and control of the populace, at any level, has never created the utopian society originally intended. And since we know this to be true, why do some among us continue to pursue a philosophy that guarantees failure?Right-To-Work
When opposing forces engage in the contest for the hearts and minds of their constituencies, it is this freedom of choice that fuels the energy, the passion, and the creativity of opposing arguments. It is this process that elevates and stretches us beyond the status quo to reach for the ideals we have embraced. It is the duty, responsibility, and obligation of any advocate to carefully, thoughtfully, and persuasively articulate and promote the legitimacy and worthiness of the cause. This is not the easy path but it is the one which ensures we prevent intentional abuses of our idealism.
To compel anyone to do anything is rarely, if ever, a good idea. In fact, coercion is the tool of the impotent and the incompetent and is an admission the argument is unworthy and indefensible. And this I have observed; those who employ the tactics of coercion and intimidation do so as a means to fulfill their personal ambitions without regard for the consequences to others. It is also the irrefutable evidence of their complete lack of trust and faith in our fellow citizen to make informed choices. Those who fail to inform and persuade become remnants of history and undeserving of our respect and admiration.
In nearly every other endeavor of the human spirit, it is the freedom of choice that propels great achievement. And if we know that to be true, why would we choose otherwise? Possibly because mandatory membership maximizes revenues and thereby inflates the union bosses’ power and influence, and control over those who would choose not to join. To refuse to join the union may be selfish and self-serving, but do we want to live in a society where our behavior, our affiliations are mandated by a controlling entity?
Right-to-Work laws reflect the essence of free markets which perpetually change and evolve to meet the ever-changing climate of supply and demand. Maintaining the status quo is the surest path to decline and failure. It is incongruent to believe the labor market should somehow be insulated from the certainty of economic cycles. And it is incongruent to want the benefits provided by free markets without accepting the attendant risk. Unions should accept the same degree of risk of failure as do the employers they serve. Allowing union membership to rise and fall in response to the economy is the safeguard against the union losing its vitality, its focus on the individual member, and its value to society. Free markets abhor any suggestion that anyone is entitled to anything. The past does not create an entitlement for the future -- change is the only constant in our lives and you either embrace it or be crushed by it.
The only conclusion we can draw from those who support mandatory union membership is they reject the principles of liberty, democracy and free markets in favor of a system that subjugates the individual's right to freedom of choice. Centralized planning and control of the populace, at any level, has never created the utopian society originally intended. And since we know this to be true, why do some among us continue to pursue a philosophy that guarantees failure?Right-To-Work
Governor Lincoln D. Chafee
November 30, 2012
The Honorable Lincoln D. Chafee
82 Smith Street
Providence, RI 02903
Dear Governor Chafee:
I am so sad for you! Not because you're liberal, or influential, or powerful, or successful, or even financially secure. I am sad for you because you have lost whatever character, integrity, courage, or common sense you may once have possessed. You've allowed your life to become a continual suppression of your convictions and your individuality.
Today would have been the 138th birthday of the modern world’s greatest leader, diplomat and statesman. You remind me of his predecessor. If you were my platoon leader during the Vietnam War, I would have maintained a safe distance from your location at all times. I am thankful my father taught me timeless and enduring values, and that it takes what’s behind the belt buckle to deliver what’s behind the eyebrows.
Sincerely,
Bill Monroe
The Honorable Lincoln D. Chafee
82 Smith Street
Providence, RI 02903
Dear Governor Chafee:
I am so sad for you! Not because you're liberal, or influential, or powerful, or successful, or even financially secure. I am sad for you because you have lost whatever character, integrity, courage, or common sense you may once have possessed. You've allowed your life to become a continual suppression of your convictions and your individuality.
Today would have been the 138th birthday of the modern world’s greatest leader, diplomat and statesman. You remind me of his predecessor. If you were my platoon leader during the Vietnam War, I would have maintained a safe distance from your location at all times. I am thankful my father taught me timeless and enduring values, and that it takes what’s behind the belt buckle to deliver what’s behind the eyebrows.
Sincerely,
Bill Monroe
Monday, October 29, 2012
The Fate of a Liar
Posted on Facebook October 28, 2012
Our President has been less than frank with the American people regarding the recent tragic events in Benghazi, Libya. Where is the outrage when the President, or any elected official, decides the truth is an acceptable casualty for any reason or purpose? Have we become a nation willing to excuse a lie as long as the consequences fall on some other poor soul? Has the truth become irrelevant? Is it okay to lie as long as our team wins? Do we believe there are only harmless lies? Do we really believe we won't become a victim of the liars among us? Has truth become a relative value? If you support or defend a liar, then you have become a liar as well. Revelation 21:8 from the Holy Bible (NASB) foretells the fate of the deceitful: "But for the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death."
Our President has been less than frank with the American people regarding the recent tragic events in Benghazi, Libya. Where is the outrage when the President, or any elected official, decides the truth is an acceptable casualty for any reason or purpose? Have we become a nation willing to excuse a lie as long as the consequences fall on some other poor soul? Has the truth become irrelevant? Is it okay to lie as long as our team wins? Do we believe there are only harmless lies? Do we really believe we won't become a victim of the liars among us? Has truth become a relative value? If you support or defend a liar, then you have become a liar as well. Revelation 21:8 from the Holy Bible (NASB) foretells the fate of the deceitful: "But for the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death."
Friday, September 7, 2012
Letter to Joe Klein
April 26, 2010
Mr. Joe Klein
Time Magazine
Time & Life Building
Rockefeller Center
New York, NY 10020
Dear Mr. Klein:
I saw the recent video clip in which you demonstrated your ability to use the dictionary by quoting the definition of sedition, and then you went on to say Glenn Beck and others are potentially guilty of perpetrating such acts. Let me be clear; I’m a pretty open-minded individual who usually tolerates opposing points of view. As long as they are thoughtful, set forth in specific arguments with supporting data, and done with the objective of promoting civil and respectful discourse, then, who knows, I may grow from the experience and even be a candidate for conversion. But your charge of sedition is probably the most outrageous, recent example of irresponsible, angry, and fearful liberal paranoia I can recall. I guess, in your world of relativism where there are no absolutes, it’s pretty easy to get up in the morning, look in the mirror, and never see the reflection.
Life is pretty straight-forward if you’re able to cut through all the distractions and misdirections. Humans are a fairly predictable bunch and we haven’t changed much in the last 10,000 years. Yes, we are more learned and our tools are more sophisticated but we continue to wrestle with the same issues as we always have – our nature hasn’t changed much, if at all. Once you understand what drives a human, he or she becomes less interesting to observe. The fascinating part is trying to determine what forces have shaped their values and convictions. For example, how did Joe Klein become a progressive liberal? Conventional wisdom would suggest you come from good intellectual stock, had all the privileges of a good education, and have always put the needs of others before your own. I see something different.
I see a man who is struggling with his own identity. I see a man who is anxious and frustrated with the circumstances and events of his own life. I see a man who resents a society which does not recognize and reward his efforts and contributions as much as they do captains of industry, performing artists, and professional athletes. I see a man who was over-shadowed in his early years by those who possessed an added measure of the most highly-regarded talents and gifts. I see a man who would settle for mediocrity rather than fulfill his potential. I see a man who prefers to discourage ambition and achievement as a means of elevating his own stature. I see a man who prefers a place “with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.” Glenn Beck frightens you because he exposes you for who you are. He makes you look into the mirror and contemplate your nature.
April 26, 2010
Page Two
We live in a nation which has provided a higher standard of living for more of its citizens for a longer period of time than any other society known to man. We live in a society where real poverty doesn’t exist, and where we embrace initiative, self-reliance, and self-determination and we acknowledge these virtues as the basis for our prosperity. However, most of us concede our nation has had numerous moments of shame and that there are those among us who will pursue their ambitions by any means available without fear of the consequences to themselves and others. But we also know this disturbing reality is further confirmation we haven’t lost our traditional liberties and freedoms. I for one fear a society where aberrant behavior is nonexistent and where emotionally-unhealthy, self-anointed elitists and intellectuals, who don’t understand nor respect human nature, deem themselves more capable of taking care of the masses than the masses themselves.
Mr. Klein, I believe you are not a happy man. I believe you have not experienced joy in a very long time. In fact, I believe you don’t even know what would make you happy or bring you joy. I suggest you look at yourself from another vantage point. Try to find that place which allows you to accept yourself for who you really are, to see the real reflection in the mirror, and to view the many dimensions of our existence. Once you see yourself as an imperfect, fallible human being shaped by your own life choices, then, and only then, will you be able to release your anxieties, fears, and frustrations and experience real peace, joy and happiness.
All the best,
Bill Monroe
cc: Mr. Glenn Beck
Mr. Joe Klein
Time Magazine
Time & Life Building
Rockefeller Center
New York, NY 10020
Dear Mr. Klein:
I saw the recent video clip in which you demonstrated your ability to use the dictionary by quoting the definition of sedition, and then you went on to say Glenn Beck and others are potentially guilty of perpetrating such acts. Let me be clear; I’m a pretty open-minded individual who usually tolerates opposing points of view. As long as they are thoughtful, set forth in specific arguments with supporting data, and done with the objective of promoting civil and respectful discourse, then, who knows, I may grow from the experience and even be a candidate for conversion. But your charge of sedition is probably the most outrageous, recent example of irresponsible, angry, and fearful liberal paranoia I can recall. I guess, in your world of relativism where there are no absolutes, it’s pretty easy to get up in the morning, look in the mirror, and never see the reflection.
Life is pretty straight-forward if you’re able to cut through all the distractions and misdirections. Humans are a fairly predictable bunch and we haven’t changed much in the last 10,000 years. Yes, we are more learned and our tools are more sophisticated but we continue to wrestle with the same issues as we always have – our nature hasn’t changed much, if at all. Once you understand what drives a human, he or she becomes less interesting to observe. The fascinating part is trying to determine what forces have shaped their values and convictions. For example, how did Joe Klein become a progressive liberal? Conventional wisdom would suggest you come from good intellectual stock, had all the privileges of a good education, and have always put the needs of others before your own. I see something different.
I see a man who is struggling with his own identity. I see a man who is anxious and frustrated with the circumstances and events of his own life. I see a man who resents a society which does not recognize and reward his efforts and contributions as much as they do captains of industry, performing artists, and professional athletes. I see a man who was over-shadowed in his early years by those who possessed an added measure of the most highly-regarded talents and gifts. I see a man who would settle for mediocrity rather than fulfill his potential. I see a man who prefers to discourage ambition and achievement as a means of elevating his own stature. I see a man who prefers a place “with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.” Glenn Beck frightens you because he exposes you for who you are. He makes you look into the mirror and contemplate your nature.
April 26, 2010
Page Two
We live in a nation which has provided a higher standard of living for more of its citizens for a longer period of time than any other society known to man. We live in a society where real poverty doesn’t exist, and where we embrace initiative, self-reliance, and self-determination and we acknowledge these virtues as the basis for our prosperity. However, most of us concede our nation has had numerous moments of shame and that there are those among us who will pursue their ambitions by any means available without fear of the consequences to themselves and others. But we also know this disturbing reality is further confirmation we haven’t lost our traditional liberties and freedoms. I for one fear a society where aberrant behavior is nonexistent and where emotionally-unhealthy, self-anointed elitists and intellectuals, who don’t understand nor respect human nature, deem themselves more capable of taking care of the masses than the masses themselves.
Mr. Klein, I believe you are not a happy man. I believe you have not experienced joy in a very long time. In fact, I believe you don’t even know what would make you happy or bring you joy. I suggest you look at yourself from another vantage point. Try to find that place which allows you to accept yourself for who you really are, to see the real reflection in the mirror, and to view the many dimensions of our existence. Once you see yourself as an imperfect, fallible human being shaped by your own life choices, then, and only then, will you be able to release your anxieties, fears, and frustrations and experience real peace, joy and happiness.
All the best,
Bill Monroe
cc: Mr. Glenn Beck
Letter To Governor O"Malley
July 18, 2011
The Honorable Martin O’Malley
100 State Circle
Annapolis, MD 21401-1925
Dear Governor O’Malley:
Your recent charge that the GOP has put the 2012 election before the need to restore our national economy demonstrates the most egregious problem in our American culture. How can we ever find a common path forward when we seem to have lost all regard and respect for the other person and their convictions.
I am a Christian-conservative and I deeply resent any suggestion that I am less compassionate than you just because my idea of compassion looks different than yours. The fact you would stoop to one of the lowest forms of political demagoguery is evidence itself of your inability to articulate reasonable and rational arguments for your own convictions. This is child-like behavior and quite unbecoming for anyone and especially for our elected officials. The people of Maryland and our nation deserve much better.
Sincerely yours,
William G. Monroe
The Honorable Martin O’Malley
100 State Circle
Annapolis, MD 21401-1925
Dear Governor O’Malley:
Your recent charge that the GOP has put the 2012 election before the need to restore our national economy demonstrates the most egregious problem in our American culture. How can we ever find a common path forward when we seem to have lost all regard and respect for the other person and their convictions.
I am a Christian-conservative and I deeply resent any suggestion that I am less compassionate than you just because my idea of compassion looks different than yours. The fact you would stoop to one of the lowest forms of political demagoguery is evidence itself of your inability to articulate reasonable and rational arguments for your own convictions. This is child-like behavior and quite unbecoming for anyone and especially for our elected officials. The people of Maryland and our nation deserve much better.
Sincerely yours,
William G. Monroe
My Tweets
These are Tweets I have posted on Twitter.com beginning in August of 2011. Except where noted, these are my original thoughts, ideas, and opinions. I will continually update the list as I create new tweets.
- Liberal elites disguise their contempt for the huddled masses under a veneer of patriotism and a cloak of contrived compassion. 8/29/11
- A courageous liberal would admit they don't trust ordinary citizens to make good decisions for themselves or for other people. 8/31/11
- An honest liberal would confess America is best served by a pervasive government that preempts citizens' freedom to make reckless choices. 9/1/11
- A candid liberal would admit a democracy only functions to their liking when the people and their elected officials are intellectual equals. 9/2/11
- An emotionally healthy liberal would admit they are politically blinded by their own personal challenges, shortcomings, and disappointments. 9/5/11
- A self-confident liberal would admit the use of vitriolic tactics and exclusionary strategies expose the shallowness of their arguments. 9/6/11
- An open-minded liberal would admit that anger, resentment, envy and bitterness are unstable foundations for ideological convictions. 9/9/11
- An enlightened liberal will admit no other society has ever produced more prosperity for more of its people for a longer duration than ours. 9/12/11
- A rational liberal would be outraged at those who take advantage of and abuse our nation’s capacity for compassion and generosity. 9/15/11
- A respectful liberal would see conservatives first as fellow citizens and neighbors and would respect their right to hold opposing beliefs. 9/17/11
- An ideological liberal sees the world as a rational place and doesn’t understand the very nature of humans and bullies in particular. 9/19/11
- A committed liberal has no doubt that, “if you have more than me, then you are unquestionably selfish, corrupt and without compassion”. 9/21/11
- A rational liberal will admit that regardless of how many times we redistribute the wealth, it will return to the most ambitious among us. 9/22/11
- A realistic liberal would admit poverty in America is more a function of personal choice than circumstances and events. 9/23/11
- A forthright liberal would confess liberals are more compassionate with other people’s money than they are with their own. 9/25/11
- Sensible liberals accept the reality that greed is a ubiquitous human vice and has no unique or exclusive relationship to capitalism. 9/29/11
- A self-assured liberal embraces conservative values as essential elements of a healthy democracy and the best protection against tyranny. 10/1/11
- A narrow-minded liberal believes heretofore questionable behavior is, in and of itself, the justification for continuing similar behavior. 10/9/11
- Near-sighted liberals mistake the welfare of the individual for the welfare of the nation. 10/12/11
- Liberal compassion is the art of getting someone else to do something in order to lessen their own guilt and to avoid doing it themselves. 10/17/11
- There’s a difference between poverty and being poor. If you can’t recognize the difference, then you are refusing to see the world as it is. 10/21/11
- Poverty is the state of believing tomorrow exists only if you survive today and wake to see the sunrise. 10/21/11
- Poverty is the state of having no reason to believe in your neighbors’ willingness and ability to offer a helping hand. 10/21/11
- It is possible to be poor in America; it is difficult if not impossible to live in a state of poverty. 10/21/11
- Being poor is the state of believing that tomorrow will come and that your neighbors are willing and able to provide a helping hand. 10/21/11
- Poverty exists in America only as a term to inflame class warfare and to sustain victimization identity. 10/21/11
- Even the poorest among us should pay their share of any tax, if for no other reason than to know their voices are not for sale. 10/24/11
- Sharing the results of our labors and prosperity should always be a personal initiative, not the mandate of any corporate or governing body. 10/25/11
- Labor Union executives have marginalized their members who have thus become the pawns of these ambitious and self-serving bullies. 10/27/11
- Liberalism is the effect of an undeveloped work ethic and the absence of the self-reliance necessary to compete in a free market economy. 10/28/11
- Liberals who reject divine creation also reject the fundamental theorem of natural evolution -- ‘survival of the fittest’. 10/29/11
- “Socialism (liberalism) is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy...” ~ Winston Churchill 11/1/11
- “...its (Liberalism’s) inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery.” ~ Winston Churchill 11/3/11
- Liberalism is the salve that relieves the regret of knowing one doesn’t have what it takes to successfully compete in a free market economy. 11/6/11
- I don’t understand why many liberals feel they are justified in ignoring laws and statutes which offend their conscience and sensibilities. 11/7/11
- Liberalism is the residue of prolonged prosperity where prudence and sacrifice are replaced by instant gratification and self-indulgence. 11/9/11
- Why are peaceful conservative protests deemed fascist while violent liberal protests are deemed exercises of free speech? 11/10/11
- Why do enlightened liberals believe governments are better stewards of our money and managers of our affairs than the people themselves? 11/14/11
- If character is not the most important attribute we look for in choosing a candidate, then we must admit the shallowness of our allegiances. 11/19/11
- If you don’t lie, cheat or steal, or associate with people who do, shouldn’t you expect your elected officials to behave in the same manner? 11/21/11
- To earn the right and privilege to challenge another's loyalties, we must first examine those loyalties we steadfastly maintain and defend. 11/25/11
- Disrespect and insulting language in the arena of debate are the fruit of a bitter heart that knows nothing of confession and forgiveness. 11/27/11
- Is it possible the early 20th century eugenics movement, supported by notable American progressives, had the Wall Street Occupiers in mind? 12/6/11
- America had better wise up; the rest of the world wants the prosperity we have enjoyed and they’ll work just as hard as we did to get it. 12/10/11
- Life without hope is as empty as marriage without love, as purpose without ethics, as honor without sacrifice, as faith without conviction. 12/12/11
- Have you ever asked yourself, “Who is the safest and most reliable person in whom to place, nurture and protect my hope?” 12/13/11
- “A government which robs from Peter to pay Paul can always depend on the support of Paul.” ~ George Bernard Shaw 1/29/12
- “The inherent flaw of capitalism is the unequal sharing of its blessings.” ~ Winston Churchill 2/3/12
- “The inherent blessing of socialism is the equal sharing of misery.” ~ Winston Churchill 2/3/12
- It is irrefutable, conservatism created our land of prosperity and opportunity, and every other political ideology seeks to constrain it. 2/3/12
- Liberalism is the ideology of those who look to contemporary culture for what is important, and what they ought to believe. 2/4/12
- Liberalism is the enemy of individualism, self-reliance, accountability, mutual respect, charity, and moral and ethical behavior. 2/6/12
- The liberal mind cannot allow the truth to be revealed if the consequences pose a threat to their ideology and stature. 2/17/12
- Fairness, equality, liberty, compassion, and patriotism exist in the liberal mind simply as slogans for manipulating the uninformed. 2/18/12
- Who knows what lies at the heart of a liberal but surely you’ll find ignorance of human nature and/or the despair of envy. 2/19/12
- Liberalism is far less an ideology than a state-of-mind, driven more by emotion than by intellect, practicality and reason. 3/26/12
- Liberalism is the conscious choice of affiliation and collectivism over individualism and self-reliance. 6/28/12
- The desire to help others with your own resources is compassion. The desire to help others with someone else's resources is socialism. 6/29/12
- I graduated in 1972 with $5,000 in student loans. I paid it back in 5 years. My loans are equivalent to $27,500 today. Where’s the crisis? 8/10/12
- Individualism is not a vice – it is the quality from which the foundation and character of our heroes and mentors is developed and refined. 8/17/12
- Obama’s record is not a function of competence or experience; he’s achieving exactly what he intends to do – destroy the neocolonial empire. 8/30/12
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Letter To Governor Rick Perry
October 4, 2011
The Honorable Rick Perry
Office of the Governor
P.O. Box 12428
Austin, TX 78711-2428
Dear Governor Perry:
You've lost my support and my vote. I do have a heart and I believe it is bigger than yours.
First and foremost, my heart favors the health and vitality of our nation as the firmest foundation for addressing the needs of those among us who need a helping hand. Our ability to provide this assistance will diminish as we continue to ignore the rule of law and the consequential economic costs of our lack of courage.
Before we can clean up the flood, we have to control the source of the water or our efforts and resources will be wasted. Your tuition-assistance program, along with other well-intentioned initiatives, has simply created a stronger magnet for attracting illegal immigrants. The tougher, greater love is to first prevent further disregard for our borders and only then deal with the issue of integrating these individuals into our society. We don't have to leave anyone behind but they will have to wait until we know we have contained the crisis and defined the scope of the remedies.
Remember the flight attendant's pre-flight briefing, "In case of emergency, put on your oxygen mask first, then assist others as needed.”
Sincerely,
Bill Monroe
Southlake, Texas
The Honorable Rick Perry
Office of the Governor
P.O. Box 12428
Austin, TX 78711-2428
Dear Governor Perry:
You've lost my support and my vote. I do have a heart and I believe it is bigger than yours.
First and foremost, my heart favors the health and vitality of our nation as the firmest foundation for addressing the needs of those among us who need a helping hand. Our ability to provide this assistance will diminish as we continue to ignore the rule of law and the consequential economic costs of our lack of courage.
Before we can clean up the flood, we have to control the source of the water or our efforts and resources will be wasted. Your tuition-assistance program, along with other well-intentioned initiatives, has simply created a stronger magnet for attracting illegal immigrants. The tougher, greater love is to first prevent further disregard for our borders and only then deal with the issue of integrating these individuals into our society. We don't have to leave anyone behind but they will have to wait until we know we have contained the crisis and defined the scope of the remedies.
Remember the flight attendant's pre-flight briefing, "In case of emergency, put on your oxygen mask first, then assist others as needed.”
Sincerely,
Bill Monroe
Southlake, Texas
Blind Loyalty
I am amazed at the number of Americans who identify themselves as Democrats despite the fact their values, beliefs and convictions more closely align with conservative rather than liberal values. How can we explain this phenomenon? The following should help.
First, I believe humans have a natural tendency to misplace their loyalties. They mistakenly put it in people rather than the principles of their ideology. There are those today whose affection for Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton make it difficult if not impossible to vote for the other party. These loyalties become an integral part of their identity and thus they cannot allow themselves to even consider any choice that suggests a betrayal of their heroes and mentors.
Second, humans desire to be seen as rational, stable, and predictable creatures. These virtues suggest intellect, emotional maturity, and reliability. Measures of these virtues are rooted in our preferences, choices, and allegiances. If we display inconsistency in our behaviors, we believe this detracts from how we want to be perceived and it betrays who we thought we were. Therefore, it is extremely difficult to abandon our loyalties and follow our instincts unless the object of our loyalty has publicly or dramatically violated the relationship.
Third, as political parties tend to evolve over time tracking the cultural shifts in the fabric of our society, the disparity between who they were and who they have become is very subtle and often unnoticeable. And if your loyalties are secured more by the humans than the ideology, then the changes are even less apparent and the relationship hasn’t been violated.
The fact is, if more people recognized the Democrat Party has abandoned its traditional values, they would see the Republican Party in a different light, not the caricature created by the liberal movement. They would understand and accept that supporting a Republican ticket is not their betrayal but a betrayal of the leadership to the values and principles upon which the Party was founded.
First, I believe humans have a natural tendency to misplace their loyalties. They mistakenly put it in people rather than the principles of their ideology. There are those today whose affection for Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton make it difficult if not impossible to vote for the other party. These loyalties become an integral part of their identity and thus they cannot allow themselves to even consider any choice that suggests a betrayal of their heroes and mentors.
Second, humans desire to be seen as rational, stable, and predictable creatures. These virtues suggest intellect, emotional maturity, and reliability. Measures of these virtues are rooted in our preferences, choices, and allegiances. If we display inconsistency in our behaviors, we believe this detracts from how we want to be perceived and it betrays who we thought we were. Therefore, it is extremely difficult to abandon our loyalties and follow our instincts unless the object of our loyalty has publicly or dramatically violated the relationship.
Third, as political parties tend to evolve over time tracking the cultural shifts in the fabric of our society, the disparity between who they were and who they have become is very subtle and often unnoticeable. And if your loyalties are secured more by the humans than the ideology, then the changes are even less apparent and the relationship hasn’t been violated.
The fact is, if more people recognized the Democrat Party has abandoned its traditional values, they would see the Republican Party in a different light, not the caricature created by the liberal movement. They would understand and accept that supporting a Republican ticket is not their betrayal but a betrayal of the leadership to the values and principles upon which the Party was founded.
Letter to Mayor Cory Booker
September 6, 2012
Honorable Cory A. Booker, Mayor
Newark City Hall
920 Broad Street
Newark, NJ 07102
Dear Mayor Booker:
If paying more taxes is patriotic, then so should making an effort to participate in our democracy and to be a responsible citizen by doing the following:
Sincerely,
Bill Monroe
Honorable Cory A. Booker, Mayor
Newark City Hall
920 Broad Street
Newark, NJ 07102
Dear Mayor Booker:
- getting government issued identification so we all have trust and confidence in our election process;
- paying a specified minimum amount of federal income tax so everyone knows your vote wasn’t purchased by the highest bidder;
- being responsible for your own debts regardless of the prevailing economy;
- unceasingly search for employment during and after receiving unemployment benefits;
- abstaining from recreational activities that create a safety or financial burden on your family and the community, and certainly while receiving public assistance;
- purchasing private health insurance for yourself and your family;
- giving ten percent of your income to charitable causes;
- refusing to use food stamps to purchase alcohol, tobacco or any items that do not promote the health and vitality of the family;
- protecting yourself from causing unintentional pregnancies;
- accepting financial responsibility for your biological children;
- completing public-provided education through grade 12;
- refusing to falsify any application or claim for public assistance;
- obeying all the enacted laws, rules, and regulations of the land;
- relocating your residence, if necessary, to gain new employment;
- refusing to engage in or allow waste, fraud, and abuse of tax dollars.
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Letter to Juan Williams
August 20, 2012
Mr. Juan Williams
Political Analyst
Fox News Corporation
1211 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10036
Dear Mr. Williams:
I wrote to you a little over a year ago regarding your myopic adoration of our President. That letter had a critical tone but this letter will not.
I’ve watched you substitute for Bill O’Reilly on Friday evenings this summer and I must say you have done a superb job. What I saw was an interviewer focused on the truth and a balanced perspective on the issue at hand. What I saw was a newsman who respected his audience and wouldn’t allow the guests to spin their stories to fit their agendas.
I may be a conservative but I will admit that I can learn from a liberal who respects the rights of all people and who defends their right to be heard. I want to make up my own mind, draw my own conclusions from a fair and balanced debate and you didn’t interfere with that process. Well done Mr. Williams!
Respectfully,
Bill Monroe
Southlake, TX
P.S. I saw your special program last evening on education in America. You have given me hope for our educational system. Every teacher in America should see this program.
Mr. Juan Williams
Political Analyst
Fox News Corporation
1211 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10036
Dear Mr. Williams:
I wrote to you a little over a year ago regarding your myopic adoration of our President. That letter had a critical tone but this letter will not.
I’ve watched you substitute for Bill O’Reilly on Friday evenings this summer and I must say you have done a superb job. What I saw was an interviewer focused on the truth and a balanced perspective on the issue at hand. What I saw was a newsman who respected his audience and wouldn’t allow the guests to spin their stories to fit their agendas.
I may be a conservative but I will admit that I can learn from a liberal who respects the rights of all people and who defends their right to be heard. I want to make up my own mind, draw my own conclusions from a fair and balanced debate and you didn’t interfere with that process. Well done Mr. Williams!
Respectfully,
Bill Monroe
Southlake, TX
P.S. I saw your special program last evening on education in America. You have given me hope for our educational system. Every teacher in America should see this program.
Letter to Bob Beckel
August 17, 2012
Mr. Bob Beckel
Political Analyst
Fox News Corporation
1211 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10036
Dear Mr. Beckel:
I'm willing to wager you don't get much fan mail from Fox News viewers. Well, this isn't a fan letter either. But I'm not writing about our divergent views on politics and human nature. No, this letter is much more personal.
I want to talk about your legacy. To paraphrase a line from the opening scene in the 1970 movie "Patton"; "Thirty years from now, when you're sitting around your fireside with your grandchildren and one of them asks, 'What did you do in the great campaign of 2012', you shouldn't have to say, 'Well... I shoveled manure on Fox News'". However, it's not the stuff you are shoveling that has prompted this letter.
Regardless of what you want or think your legacy to be, yours is not being cast in the mold of the antagonist Fox News wants you to be, or the ideological defender you think you are. It is being cast in the eyes of viewers as a myrmidon, as one who seeks only the favor of his handlers, as one who finds more security and comfort in membership and affiliation than in individualism, self-reliance, and fierce independence. I believe you are competent, capable and intelligent but I also believe you have sold your dignity, self-respect, and manhood for the ephemeral trappings of notoriety, material gain, and the approval of men. Please, don't pretend to be shocked and offended. How many times have you sung the party song even when you knew it was the wrong tune?
If you are to be remembered after your life on earth has passed, will your legacy make your posterity beam with pride? I want mine to remember me as a man who wasn't afraid, embarrassed or ashamed of his convictions, who didn't shrink from doing the right thing regardless of the cost, who didn't compromise his values and beliefs for any reason, who had the courage to face the consequences of his actions, and who had compassion for those who needed a helping hand.
You have the time and the opportunity to re-shape your legacy. I hope you do so.
Respectfully,
Bill Monroe
Southlake, TX
Mr. Bob Beckel
Political Analyst
Fox News Corporation
1211 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10036
Dear Mr. Beckel:
I'm willing to wager you don't get much fan mail from Fox News viewers. Well, this isn't a fan letter either. But I'm not writing about our divergent views on politics and human nature. No, this letter is much more personal.
I want to talk about your legacy. To paraphrase a line from the opening scene in the 1970 movie "Patton"; "Thirty years from now, when you're sitting around your fireside with your grandchildren and one of them asks, 'What did you do in the great campaign of 2012', you shouldn't have to say, 'Well... I shoveled manure on Fox News'". However, it's not the stuff you are shoveling that has prompted this letter.
Regardless of what you want or think your legacy to be, yours is not being cast in the mold of the antagonist Fox News wants you to be, or the ideological defender you think you are. It is being cast in the eyes of viewers as a myrmidon, as one who seeks only the favor of his handlers, as one who finds more security and comfort in membership and affiliation than in individualism, self-reliance, and fierce independence. I believe you are competent, capable and intelligent but I also believe you have sold your dignity, self-respect, and manhood for the ephemeral trappings of notoriety, material gain, and the approval of men. Please, don't pretend to be shocked and offended. How many times have you sung the party song even when you knew it was the wrong tune?
If you are to be remembered after your life on earth has passed, will your legacy make your posterity beam with pride? I want mine to remember me as a man who wasn't afraid, embarrassed or ashamed of his convictions, who didn't shrink from doing the right thing regardless of the cost, who didn't compromise his values and beliefs for any reason, who had the courage to face the consequences of his actions, and who had compassion for those who needed a helping hand.
You have the time and the opportunity to re-shape your legacy. I hope you do so.
Respectfully,
Bill Monroe
Southlake, TX
Letter to Al Levie
February 3, 2012
Mr. Al Levie
William Horlick High School
2119 Rapids Drive
Racine, WI 53404-2039
Dear Mr. Levie:
Your recent behavior, which has garnered national attention, reminds me of an adolescent boy driven by anger, disappointment, and frustration with himself, his circumstances, and the events of his life.
There is a time and a place for everything including activism. Clearly you lack the self-esteem, self-confidence, and courage to promote your ideology responsibly in a mature adult environment. Instead, you prey upon impressionable children without consideration for their cognitive abilities nor regard for the rights of their parents. Your assaults may not leave the deep emotional scars of a pedophile but in nearly every other sense they are as reprehensible and disgusting. I am appalled responsible adults in your community allow you to masquerade as a teacher in a classroom they provide.
My advice to you Al is to take a long look at yourself in the mirror. You’ve made poor choices for yourself and now is the time to reassess how you want the world to remember your life.
Sincerely,
Bill Monroe
Cc: The Honorable Paul Ryan
The Journal Times
Mr. Al Levie
William Horlick High School
2119 Rapids Drive
Racine, WI 53404-2039
Dear Mr. Levie:
Your recent behavior, which has garnered national attention, reminds me of an adolescent boy driven by anger, disappointment, and frustration with himself, his circumstances, and the events of his life.
There is a time and a place for everything including activism. Clearly you lack the self-esteem, self-confidence, and courage to promote your ideology responsibly in a mature adult environment. Instead, you prey upon impressionable children without consideration for their cognitive abilities nor regard for the rights of their parents. Your assaults may not leave the deep emotional scars of a pedophile but in nearly every other sense they are as reprehensible and disgusting. I am appalled responsible adults in your community allow you to masquerade as a teacher in a classroom they provide.
My advice to you Al is to take a long look at yourself in the mirror. You’ve made poor choices for yourself and now is the time to reassess how you want the world to remember your life.
Sincerely,
Bill Monroe
Cc: The Honorable Paul Ryan
The Journal Times
Letter to Harry Reid
August 17, 2012
Honorable Harry Reid
522 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Dear Senator Reid:
There are emerging and struggling democracies around the world who look to the United States as one of the best examples of what a democracy should look like. And in this technological age of instantaneous, worldwide availability of news and information, our every word is being evaluated to judge the attributes of our form of government.
You Sir, have single-handedly done more to discredit the theme and enduring qualities of democracy than any previous event in the history of our nation. It is clear there is nothing you won't do to pursue your agenda. Winning at any cost, by any means, are the tactics of anarchists and revolutionaries and is clearly the path you prefer and have chosen.
This country is bigger and stronger than those who desire to corrupt the values, virtues and principles upon which it was founded. Your legacy will be a constant humiliation for your posterity.
Sincerely,
Bill Monroe
Southlake, TX
Honorable Harry Reid
522 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Dear Senator Reid:
There are emerging and struggling democracies around the world who look to the United States as one of the best examples of what a democracy should look like. And in this technological age of instantaneous, worldwide availability of news and information, our every word is being evaluated to judge the attributes of our form of government.
You Sir, have single-handedly done more to discredit the theme and enduring qualities of democracy than any previous event in the history of our nation. It is clear there is nothing you won't do to pursue your agenda. Winning at any cost, by any means, are the tactics of anarchists and revolutionaries and is clearly the path you prefer and have chosen.
This country is bigger and stronger than those who desire to corrupt the values, virtues and principles upon which it was founded. Your legacy will be a constant humiliation for your posterity.
Sincerely,
Bill Monroe
Southlake, TX
Fast and Furious
June 16, 2012
An Open Letter to the United States House of Representatives:
Ladies and Gentlemen:
I watched with dismay your attempt to demand the Attorney General’s resignation. Once again, politics triumphs over truth.
Clearly this was a witch hunt to discredit the Attorney General and the current administration. But the question is, have you served your constituencies and the American people? With the evidence disclosed thus far and nearly 150,000 Department of Justice documents being contemptuously withheld from you, are you absolutely certain the Attorney General did or did not have complicity in the Fast and Furious covert operation? Defending or convicting anyone before all the evidence has been presented is nothing less than contempt for the rule of law and leaves truth as the most serious casualty.
Sadly, witch hunts have become an effective political maneuver. I submit you have succumbed to this practice to the detriment of your individual honor, character, integrity, and the people's confidence in our democracy. How can the American people trust a body that subverts the truth for political advantage? Is this the legacy of public service you envisioned for yourselves when you took your oaths of office? Please thoughtfully consider the following points.
First, the individual at the helm of any endeavor, regardless of its size and scope, must accept responsibility and be held accountable for the actions of their subordinates. This is a resolute principle of effective leadership. The moral and ethical culture of any organization must be clearly articulated and enforced on a consistent and continuing basis. To do otherwise is an implicit endorsement of irresponsible behavior and encourages more of the same. Leaders who ignore or fail in this essential duty must be forced to relinquish command. However, when such a culture has been clearly established, leaders should be insulated from the fallout from incompetence and unauthorized activity on their watch. We must expect the highest standards from those who willingly and voluntarily seek increasing levels of responsibility.
Second, the strength and enduring value of any legitimate collaboration must be larger and stronger than the actions of any individual. If we believe the institutions we have created are all perilously at risk because of the bullies among us, then our great nation has been nothing more than an illusion, doomed from the outset. And here's the irony -- trust is earned when the search for truth is unimpeded by ulterior motive, and when leaders accept risk to themselves when doing the right thing. Those leaders who were unafraid of a public display of dirty laundry were emboldened by their respect for the American people to recognize and honor trustworthiness. In other words, if the Attorney General is forced to step aside even without due process, it does not signal the end of the Democratic party or the current administration. Instead, it reaffirms the nobility of our great nation. The people don't necessarily believe in you, they believe in our form of government and the principles upon which it was founded.
Third, every member of the House of Representatives is obligated to demand the immediate release of all evidence related to this very grave matter. To do otherwise borders on dereliction of duty and is deserving of the harshest allowable penalty. If you haven’t the ability to think for yourself, the courage to stand alone, or a good measure of self-respect , then know you are a big part of the problem and not part of the solution.
Ladies and gentlemen, I implore you to forsake the political tricks, games and maneuvers you have so skillfully devised and employed. Please set aside your affiliations and embrace your individuality. Give us a reason to believe this great nation is in good hands and that our best days are yet to come. And lastly, for the most crafty and cunning among you, if you condescendingly dismiss this letter as altruistic naïveté, then admit to yourselves you have given in to the corrupting effects of influence, power and prestige.
Respectfully,
Bill Monroe
Southlake, TX
An Open Letter to the United States House of Representatives:
Ladies and Gentlemen:
I watched with dismay your attempt to demand the Attorney General’s resignation. Once again, politics triumphs over truth.
Clearly this was a witch hunt to discredit the Attorney General and the current administration. But the question is, have you served your constituencies and the American people? With the evidence disclosed thus far and nearly 150,000 Department of Justice documents being contemptuously withheld from you, are you absolutely certain the Attorney General did or did not have complicity in the Fast and Furious covert operation? Defending or convicting anyone before all the evidence has been presented is nothing less than contempt for the rule of law and leaves truth as the most serious casualty.
Sadly, witch hunts have become an effective political maneuver. I submit you have succumbed to this practice to the detriment of your individual honor, character, integrity, and the people's confidence in our democracy. How can the American people trust a body that subverts the truth for political advantage? Is this the legacy of public service you envisioned for yourselves when you took your oaths of office? Please thoughtfully consider the following points.
First, the individual at the helm of any endeavor, regardless of its size and scope, must accept responsibility and be held accountable for the actions of their subordinates. This is a resolute principle of effective leadership. The moral and ethical culture of any organization must be clearly articulated and enforced on a consistent and continuing basis. To do otherwise is an implicit endorsement of irresponsible behavior and encourages more of the same. Leaders who ignore or fail in this essential duty must be forced to relinquish command. However, when such a culture has been clearly established, leaders should be insulated from the fallout from incompetence and unauthorized activity on their watch. We must expect the highest standards from those who willingly and voluntarily seek increasing levels of responsibility.
Second, the strength and enduring value of any legitimate collaboration must be larger and stronger than the actions of any individual. If we believe the institutions we have created are all perilously at risk because of the bullies among us, then our great nation has been nothing more than an illusion, doomed from the outset. And here's the irony -- trust is earned when the search for truth is unimpeded by ulterior motive, and when leaders accept risk to themselves when doing the right thing. Those leaders who were unafraid of a public display of dirty laundry were emboldened by their respect for the American people to recognize and honor trustworthiness. In other words, if the Attorney General is forced to step aside even without due process, it does not signal the end of the Democratic party or the current administration. Instead, it reaffirms the nobility of our great nation. The people don't necessarily believe in you, they believe in our form of government and the principles upon which it was founded.
Third, every member of the House of Representatives is obligated to demand the immediate release of all evidence related to this very grave matter. To do otherwise borders on dereliction of duty and is deserving of the harshest allowable penalty. If you haven’t the ability to think for yourself, the courage to stand alone, or a good measure of self-respect , then know you are a big part of the problem and not part of the solution.
Ladies and gentlemen, I implore you to forsake the political tricks, games and maneuvers you have so skillfully devised and employed. Please set aside your affiliations and embrace your individuality. Give us a reason to believe this great nation is in good hands and that our best days are yet to come. And lastly, for the most crafty and cunning among you, if you condescendingly dismiss this letter as altruistic naïveté, then admit to yourselves you have given in to the corrupting effects of influence, power and prestige.
Respectfully,
Bill Monroe
Southlake, TX
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