In a Perfect World . . . Speech

In a perfect world, we'd all be able to express our thoughts without fear of condemnation.  Unfortunately, in today's liberal culture, dissent is frowned upon.  Apparently, at the present time, we may feel free to express our opinion only when it's agreeable with the dominant view.  Whatever happened to being able to have a civil debate?  Whatever happened to being a able to "agree to disagree"?  That almost doesn't seem possible anymore.  As I watch the protest in in Wisconsin of disgruntled workers (they're employees of the state, after all--which means they actually work for the taxpayer) and see them physically accost a member of the opposing political party, I have wonder where our sense of common decency is?  Why are the senators in this state so afraid of debate?  I wonder if their reaction would be the same if the shoe were on the other foot?  I also follow the NCTE blog where (I thought) members would be able to discuss various issues with each other--free from condemnation of their peers.  However, this also proved to be untrue as a few weeks ago, I followed a vicious attack on a teacher who had the temerity to voice an opinion that went contrary to the thread conversations.  I quickly realized that this site is reserved for liberals who only wish to villify the government and rant against any possible plan that suggests accountabilty.  It's now a blog that I've lost all interest in following.  What a sad state of affairs for our country.  Unfortunately, I don't think things will improve.  In fact, I'm not sure they can.  For Christians who follow Bible prophecy, our spiritual antennas should be tuned heavenward as I believe the return of Christ for His saints (the Rapture) is very close.  Until then, I'll keep praying for civil discourse--the ability to freely express differing opinions without the fear of being attacked by those who disagree.  Even so, come Lord Jesus!