E pluribus unum

By James Lewis

As we yell and scream at the radio and TV and the computer screen these days, and even at each other, that's a vital principle to keep in mind.

American politics ain't beanball. We fight for fundamental principles, win or lose. If we lose now, we look down the road to the next chance to win. But at some point we need to stand united. Even if your second- or third-choice candidate wins. Even if you decide to sit this one out. We're still living in the same land. We still share a common fate. There'll be another vote just down the road.

We need unity as a nation because there are those who would do us harm. They don't make distinctions among conservatives, among Americans, or between us and other free peoples. They happen to be flying different color in 2007 than they did in 1947 or 1977. But they represent exactly the same impulse. They want to impose their power on us against our will.

So when the final vote is cast, and the final choice is made, make sure you can still talk to your neighbor. Even if you fight right now like brothers and sisters.

For the Marines, it's Semper Fi.

For other Americans, it's E Pluribus, buddy.

At the end of the day we stay united.

James Lewis blogs at dangeroustimes.wordpress.com/