I must honestly admit, my idealism usually wins out against my pragmatism, and that is going to influence all of my opinions. In the end, you may find that it all comes back to that. I find myself in the Those who would give up Essential Liberty to purchase a little Temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety camp. I grew up on the losing side of the discrimination equation, so my whole worldview is formed by that. It was only when I refused to compromise that I found personal peace .. even if I found myself more at odds with the world. So, within my perspective, the compromise requires me to sacrifice who i am.

And of course, I was raised in a faith tradition that focused on the narrow path. The idea of personal sacrifice in the name of my priorities and values is a natural, not a foreign concept. I don't expect any one else to go along with that same mindset, but it is mine, so all of my opinions will reflect it.

I don't know if that really provides any answers, but it might make my position make more sense. I understand that the idealistic path that I propose requires personal sacrifice and compassion - and even moreso for those not in the asshat camp, no matter what other camp they may be in - but to me no other course is acceptable. To me, all other courses are to admit defeat and are just an attempt to be one of the ones who loses the least .. to rule in hell so to speak.

I would rather make the good fight. But as you said, if you believe in that higher power, that is easier.