A Shout Out for NPR

I'm listening, once again, as I have for years and years, to Scott Simon on National Public Radio's "Weekend Edition," by far the best radio there is (along with Lian (I think that's the spelling) Hanson's version on Sunday).

First of all, it doesn't shout at you. It doesn't try to convince. It just tries to inform.

It is calm. It appeals to the intellect. It pauses for reflection. It is what we need.

When two people of differing views appear, it's a duo like David Brooks (conservative) of the New York Times, and E.J. Dionne (liberal) of the Washington Post. And they have a real conversation and thoughtful exchange. And I sometimes agree with both of them. And I find it difficult to consider that some people think there's something wrong with that.

I found it interesting that--listening once again--I learned of an admitted right-wing ideologue who listens to NPR very often. Why? He said it gives him the information without trying to influence. He finds that a breath of fresh air (speaking of another great NPR show).

Why do right-wing blowhards find it difficult to swallow? For just the reasons stated above. Plus, the simple fact that it brings up topics they'd rather not deal with--most specifically, those dealing with gay-lesbian issues.

But they're just the people who should be listening--those who will give lip-service to such individuals, acknowledge their issues and their rights, but would rather not think about them. It just makes them uncomfortable--much like they, themselves, make many other people uncomfortable (except they can't possibly believe or accept that).

Nevertheless, they confuse reportage with advocacy: first, because (sadly) there is so much advocacy journalism out there now; and second, not all of it tries to advance their own point of view.

It's a matter of trying to stifle anything and everything that they don't like. That means having their own way about everything and believing they really can, as long as they shout and whine and bully long enough about what they so self-righteously think everybody else ought to think, because it's the only way to think. Or so they think.

Hasn't worked yet. Think it ever will?

In the meantime: Hooray for NPR. Sail on.

Mister Mark