Do you want our opinions?

Dallas Morning News | Carl Morgan:

“I feel that no one honestly cares what youths think. Politicians, teachers and the like encourage political discourse, yet when we express opinions, the response is condescension and a pat on the head.”

Ed Cognoski responds:

I've got news for Mr Morgan. Lecturing, scolding, condescension, none of that is reserved for youths. Everyone who engages in political discourse is subject to that. Politics is a blood sport.

Former Senator Max Cleland (D-GA) is a disabled US Army veteran of the Vietnam War. He lost both legs and part of one arm when a grenade he was holding exploded. He was awarded the Bronze Star and Silver Star. Yet, during his campaign for re-election to the US Senate, his political opinions were distorted, his patriotism questioned, his war wounds and medals belittled and mocked. All for partisan political gain. If the body politic will do that to a disabled war veteran, youths should expect no applause for voicing their own political opinions.

Welcome to the real world. Congratulations. You're a grownup. Now, quit complaining and go and do better than your elders. Change the nasty tone that permeates all of politics today. The future is in your hands.