Some time ago I wrote about a former friend who quit talking to me because he didn’t like my political beliefs.  Now I have a second friend, who was my best friend in high school, end our friendship over politics.  It all began when six of us, three Republicans and Three Democrats started writing back and forth on political issues.  Only one of the three Republicans took the time to respond.  He and my other best friend from the 7th grade didn’t reply except every now and then to say they didn’t want to be bothered. 

So I wrote this short note:  “You’re right.  Republicans would rather sit on their ignorance rather than share it with everyone.”

This is what he wrote back:

“You sir, are a pompous, self-righteous fool who has failed at everything you’ve ever tried…We all pity you and are embarrassed for you.  You don’t have the wit to be embarrassed for yourself.  How sad and self-delusional.”  He went on to criticize me for self-publishing my book, A Warrior’s Son (http://deweypasquini.com), saying vanity presses would publish anyone’s drivel if you paid them.  He continued, “By the way, have you sold any copies?  For your mental and emotional well-being, I certainly hope so!!!…You really are something of a fraud, wouldn’t you in your secret heart of hearts have to agree?  Goodbye, and good luck to  you, you sad soul.”

This was my best friend in high school.  He shed tears after my first heart attack when he thought I might die. I offered him my condolences when his wife died. And now this?  What’s our country come too that people are so intolerant and unwilling to use our gift of free speech to talk about issues in a rational reasoned manner.