Good faith...

I've never been one for saying, "You need to look that up in the dictionary."  That always sounded haughty and snobbish to me.  However, I'm thinking some folks need to revisit the basic concept of COMPROMISE.  No, I will not include the Webster definition here, but I will say that ordinary Americans effectively employ the practice every single day with family and friends and business associates.  From personal budgets to vacation planning to negotiating contracts to bargaining for a raise or a benefit to ending the myriad small arguments along the way, successful individuals realize that "having it your way and only your way" seldom leads to moving forward in a productive manner.  Oh, people might give in, but they won't be happy.  Unhappy partners in any situation stifle loyalty, creativity, and growth.  In the end, "the winner" loses more than he gains, although he rarely realizes that.  Ultimately, conflict continues to arise, and the enterprise, whatever its nature, either fails miserably or stagnates.  No matter what the subject, no matter what the deal, a middle ground exits, one that respects all feelings and standards but asks some sacrifice to benefit the greater good.  We can stand on principle all day long, and everyone will know our character, our values.  That's noble and admirable and necessary, and we are free to live our own lives according to those precepts without wavering.  However, when groups with varied values endeavor to cultivate and nurture a worthy common cause, all must seek a solution that works for the majority.   Ahhhhhh, sounds like democracy, sounds like AMERICA.  Again, "the little people" (doing most of the work that makes some people look "big") do it constantly because they must.  Those involved in the weighty matters of public policy need only pause and remember what took place at their own dinner tables and in their own conference rooms not so long ago.  We're trusting and waiting in good faith.  You can do it!!