[The Urban Sombrero]

▶Estabish Justice
▶Ensure domestic tranquility
▶Provide for the common defense
▶Promote the general welfare
▶Secure the blessings of liberty

In my view, the values of inclusion, diversity, and regard for all are included in the philosophical underpinnings that make America great. However, the spirit and feel of the times bring need often times to have to balance certain preamble goals against others. I don't think any of us enjoy seeing Syrian mothers and children cast adrift on the seas. But, with extremist terrorism, the common defense and general welfare have to be considered. In my view, a lot of tough issues cause us to have to balance the stated goals in the preamble against each other. I have a hope that those on right and left who are willing to credit intelligence and patriotism to those we disagree with might find a bridge across the acrimonious and troubled waters of extremism and find creative ways to continue to pursue and live out those goals as a society. For instance, I might believe progressive taxation the best way to promote the general welfare and to ensure domestic tranquility. Others might think a value added or flat tax the best way. Yet, all would be interested most in seeing our society pursue the preamblic goals, and, therefore, perhaps the true art of politics could return from the precipice of demonization and polarization.