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Good writers needed!
Clarksville Online has grown beyond all of our imaginations, and we’ve had the occasional hiccup. That’s nothing unexpected! Growing pains aside, we are putting out a call for writers.
As you can probably tell, many of CO’s most active writers often write from a more liberal viewpoint. We are delighted to provide alternative views from Clarksville’s residents that write informed, thought-provoking articles that challenge conventional rhetoric.
However, we are also convinced that CO is in dire need of strong conservative voices. There are issues that we must wrestle with day after day which are debated around water coolers all across town, and CO should reflect that. Unfortunately, it’s far too easy to step into some very condescending language that is inappropriate for this (or any other) forum. Alas, that line has been crossed by certain parties, and this is being reviewed very carefully. Threats of any kind will not be tolerated, ever.
We have some very simple and easy-to-follow rules here at CO, first of which is to debate the issues, and never the individual. It’s very easy for someone to erupt into a tirade about how liberals are “ruining the country.” If this is your opinion, then that’s wonderful. All we ask is that if you have this opinion to discuss the specific issues that are affecting the nation and use solid facts to support them. In short, “play well with others.”
One example of “not playing nice” is when someone calls for genocide. In a comment to one of our articles, a member said, “What do you do to a people who wants to kill you because his god says convert, pay tax or die? We should pray for them then kill them.” This kind of rhetoric isn’t just inflammatory. It’s downright dangerous. And it has no place on Clarksville Online.
On the other hand, Charles Cook and I have engaged in some pretty lively discussions. We often come down on opposite sides of several issues. You might have seen that in the newspaper recently. Dr. Cook’s example of spirited debate is one that I hold up as an example of someone who uses stellar debate tactics. He comes across as a bull in a china shop, but darned if he doesn’t make his point well! That’s why he and his posts will continue to be welcome here at CO.
Rebuttals are always encouraged, and we know that debate is often lively. I and the other editors of CO cordially invite you to join in on that debate. We especially want to have some first-hand accounts of events in Iraq and stories from those who are most affected by events in the news.
Again, we are always looking for fresh talent who can write from an informed perspective. If you’d like to write, please let us know. Whether it’s a good recipe (PLEASE!) or dissenting opinions, we stretch out our hand and say, “Come on down!”
About David W. Shelton 
Posts by David W. Shelton are copyright (c)2006, 2007, 2008 by the author. All rights reserved.
David W. Shelton is a writer, speaker and activist in Clarksville, and serves on the Clarksville Human Relations Commission. His passions include film and complete equality for all people, and he has worked in various capacities to work toward this goal. He is currently an illustrator, graphic designer, trainer, and is the owner of Imagine Media Solutions. He is an Adobe® Certified Instructor in Photoshop®.
Web Site: http://www.skippingtothepiccolo.com/
Email:
dwshelton@att.net
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January 21st, 2007 at 4:23 pm
Donald, with respect, our goal is to encourage anyone with the skills to write an informed post that is not an attack on any individual to submit articles. I, too am moderate in my ideology. However, it’s critical that we balance out the discussion on any topic. Sure, we might not agree with them. And that’s okay!
We have had issues in the past where someone has posted a personal attack or a veiled threat. To be clear, that will NOT be tolerated, and any author or contributor who engages in such tactics will be dealt with up to and including complete removal from this site. Quite simply, this will not be a forum on which personal attacks will be permitted. And yes, we have exercised this rule, and will do so again.
I look forward to seeing a diverse forum that has well-thought-out articles from all points of view. It will be worth reading for everyone.
January 22nd, 2007 at 7:54 am
Donald, I sincerely hope that you understand that while we may have different opinions about the MLK day, that we can agree to disagree. I understandt that you have your reasons. I’m okay with that.
You’re quite correct in saying that the followers of many of these organizations are “thick and ordinary.” They are. There’s no argument there. Historically, far too many people have seen such organizations as a means to their own hateful agenda. This is true especially of groups that are activist-centered. This is true of the NAACP, churches, and yes, even GLAAD. It’s unfortunate, really. Alas, it’s the truth.
On the flip side, I’m an idealist. I see the world (and most people) through a slightly rose-colored lens that is always looking for the best in people. Sometimes that’s difficult. When I see the teachings of King, Ghandi, and other genuine leaders in history, I will subscribe to those ideals. I follow Christ because of His teachings and his actions. I honor King because of his message of nonviolence. Sure, he had some real nuts that follow him. So does Jesus.
I agree fully that Christianity has been made completely unappealing by its mass of followers that give it a horrible image. I’ve often described the body of Christ as a distorted, leprous figure that’s covered with leeches on every inch of skin. The heart is genuine, but it must work extra hard because of the parasites that have attached themselves to the host. This is what has happened in the Church. There is a remnant of people who will follow Christ and show His love, no matter what. But their message and their works are often drowned out by the hate, intolerance, and bigotry that’s shown by those who are Christian in name only. You’re right to be repulsed by most Christians. All I can suggest is to look for the genuine; their sweet smell is often overpowered by the stench of hypocracy.
Your walk of faith is your own. I have a different walk. I will not judge nor condemn you for your beliefs, even thought I don’t share them. Tolerance is simply to respect the opinions and views of others as completely valid. We may not agree on matters of faith, but who does? In fact, as you’re well aware, there are over 20,000 different denominations (including each individual non-denominational church) out there that are all separated by their beliefs.
But that’s what “beliefs” are. They are powerful in their application, and the power of a belief is enough to drive a man into action, either positive or negative. So if you believe that the NAACP is a vile group, then by all means, don’t join them. If you believe Christianity is repugnant, then by all means, don’t be Christian. All I ask, is that you look past the ugliness of the “thick and ordinary” and look into the heart of the message that ignited their spark.
I choose the positive. I choose respect, honor, and grace. I choose faith, hope, and love. And the greatest of these is love. Is it possible to work for those ideals and still think many followers are thick and ordinary? Absolutely. That’s where the rubber meets the road… and it’s worth it.