OH, HOW WE LOVE EVERYONE

There rings a familiar refrain in our household. The first justification goes something like this: “Everyone’s doing it!” The less than enthusiastic response echos as follows: “Just because everyone’s doing it, doesn’t make it right.”

Just because “everyone” owns a Playstation 3, XBOX 360, and/or a Wii, does not mean our children will be deprived without the latest unveiled gaming system.

Just because “everyone” determined Heath Ledger deserved the Oscar for his supporting role in “The Dark Knight,” does not mean we need to ignore that the role generated the nightmares that potentially precipitated his death.

Just because “everyone” is either a Yankees or Red Sox fan, does not mean we must avoid cheering for the less heralded underdog.

Just because “everyone” has adopted an attitude of political correctness, does not mean tolerance of all things is appropriate.

Just because “everyone” likes mushrooms and pickles, does not mean I need to relish them on my hamburger.

Just because “everyone” is overjoyed that their state government is a bailout recipient, does not mean we should withhold questioning the appropriateness of an Arkansan donating his taxpayer money to an unemployed Californian.

Just because “everyone” thinks Ashley Judd and Sean Penn are “cool,” does not mean we should think their shaming of those who articulate an alternate opinion is evidence of using their celebrity status well.

Just because “everyone” thinks global warming is now fact, does not mean the many scientists who have come to a conflicting conclusion need to be silenced.

And just because “everyone” calls the Dallas Cowboys “America’s Team,” does not mean we have to concur with T.O., Romo, and Jessica Simpson in their Super Bowl pick.

My point is this: wisdom triumphs over opinion; that includes all polling data. “Just because” our main man, “everyone,” feels a specific way does not equate to “rightness.” There was a time when “everyone” thought the world was flat. There was a time when “everyone” thought Hitler was ok. And there was a time “everyone” thought slavery represented a respectable employment opportunity.

“Everyone” is not necessarily wise. To equalize “everyone” with wisdom is simply a popular exercise... in foolishness, that is.

AR