We make our most important decisions based upon emotion. Think about it.

We do not commit to a mate because of his or her good genes, money, or reputation, but because we become emotionally engaged with him or her. We buy a house because it “just feels right.” We buy automobiles because their power or looks are intoxicating – not because they are practical, get good mileage, or suited to the type of driving we really do. If we based our automobile purchases on practicality, the number of SUVs and monster trucks would be greatly reduced. Come on – who really drives off road or hauls anything but air in the back of his or her super-duty extended cab pickup?

Again, we make our most important decisions based upon emotion.

It is all right. According to Zorba the Greek, a man needs a little madness. Unfortunately, this madness often bleeds into insanity when politics and emotion are involved. Politics and blogging seem to be the lowest common denominator that binds politics and emotion. The ability of expression afforded by a blog has allowed many – including me – to express an opinion and influence how others might view any sort of political issue. However, problems arise when emotion overtakes good sense. Recently, several bloggers in the Duluth area have resorted to promoting the politics of hate. They have resorted to innuendo, report little to do with facts, and make highly personal attacks. These attacks are offensive, rude, and cowardly.

While it might be enjoyable for a time, it never pays to throw mud.

I have committed to writing this blog as a well respected online journal that promotes open and honest policy dialogue. Unlike several local blogs, my name and picture appear at the top of every entry.

It is true: I do not allow instant response to each entry to ensure the blog remains an open letter. However, if you disagree (or agree) with me, you can email or call me – my email address is clickable right from my blog and my phone number is printed in the public domain. In fact, I welcome your comments. I make my contact information public because I refuse to call others out while I hide behind a curtain of anonymity.

I am accountable to our members who pay a sizable chunk of money to be a member of the Chamber. I will not willingly violate their trust or do anything to embarrass others. My intent is to promote critical thinking and civic discussion.

Finally, I refuse to let my comments sink to the level of a Jerry Springer show. Those kinds of things might be entertaining to a few, but rarely do they reflect credibility, respect, or forward thinking.

Duluth is a wonderful place to live. I live here because my parents and grandparents lived here. Sure, I could rapidly advance my career elsewhere, but that notion does not appeal to me – Duluth does.

My challenge to all bloggers is that we leave the emotional temerity behind and move on to become the best we can – that means using open and respectful communication. We’ll all be better off when we do.