Happy happy Saturday, dearest Community, and welcome! Before we get to this week’s stellar picks, let’s talk about new beginnings. The sun is finally shining here in Southern California, and it finally feels safe to think of spring—and not just because we change our clocks tonight. As a native of the Midwest, spring has always signaled an annual chance for a new beginning, in a way that Jan. 1 never has. As the sun begins to warm my skin with every dog stroll, and icy beverages finally regain the appeal they lose in colder weather, going outside becomes a delight instead of an obligation, and the world is new again … at least until November.
It’s this mindset that leads me to this week’s question.
What, if anything, will you do differently as we get a fresh start on the 2020 campaign trail?
I’ll go first: I’m going to canvass like a mofo. I haven’t done it since 2004, when I was a baby wonk and desperate for Anybody But Bush to claim the Oval Office. Inspired by the horror that was the Dubya presidency, I, much like y’all long-timers here at Daily Kos, jumped into the fray, desperate to see my hopes answered and my fears tempered with a return to liberal leadership. At the DNC’s watch party in my hometown of Cleveland, I stayed much longer than I should have, desperate for good news that never came. But when I finally went home, I was able to comfort myself with the knowledge that I did my part, even if it wasn’t enough.
In 2016, I couldn’t say the same; that will NOT be the case in 2020. Canvassing won’t be my only work, but I must be able to say I fought my hardest to take my country back from the clutches of those that wish to transform it into a hellscape. And as we emerge victorious, I will be able to say I did my part in celebration, rather than consolation.
How about you?
I’m looking forward to hearing from y’all. As we keep learning, organizing works. Elections matter. And we must energize and elevate those who are committed to progress, rather than regressive and oppressive policies.
With that, let’s get to this week’s collection!
Liberals and the left fail to notice - and celebrate - the intellectual death of conservatism
By NBBooks
A fairly meticulous deep dive into the downfall and origins of conservatism—and a glimpse into the mindsets of those who desperately want to snatch it back from the GOP we know today.
The Ninety Nine Names of Donald J. Trump
By necturus
The title of this snarkfest says it all.
The love of money is the root of all evil
By Greg from Vermont
Greed is one helluva drug. This compact diary reminds us just how dangerous it can be.
Meghan McCain's GOP Hubris: "I'm a Highly Educated Woman."
By SouthernLeveller
It’s not just that she *isn’t* highly educated. It’s that flaunting education is often used as a silencing technique, and not just by people with famous fathers.
Henry Johnson - The "Black Death"
By Blue York
Teddy Roosevelt called him “one of the five bravest American soldiers” during World War I, but Henry Johnson’s story is rarely told.
Mitt Romney deserves no credit and no apologies on Russia
By Jon Perr
Simply put, Mitt Romney doesn’t deserve apologies or credit over Russia—because he was wrong then, and he’s wrong now.
What I learned when I sent school supplies to Tonga
By gloriasb
Open your eyes to the experiences of others, and you might just find yourself changed.
Doctors never claimed that "smoking is safe." Another anti-vaccine lie
By SkepticalRaptor
Acquaint yourself with the fascinating realities of this popular anti-vaxxer argument against trusting doctors, and you’ll be well-equipped for your next strawman fight.
Correcting the record
By joe quigley
The Oklahoma City LGBTQ community fought (and won!) some remarkable battles, but their activism victories, overshadowed by those fought by bigger cities in courtrooms, are rarely discussed.
Vanlife: So What's My "Hashtag Vanlife!" REALLY Like?
By Lenny Flank
Living in a van is NOTHING like you see on Instagram. This diary goes into the thrills, the challenges, and the tedium of a life on four wheels.
If you can help. . . You should.
By kaudi
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Be a helper. Come for the story of a simple act of kindness, and stay for the comments, which are chock full of similar tales.
Dentists Talk Out of Both Sides of Their Mouths
By megsk8z
This impassioned, first-person story reminds us that dental care is healthcare, yet it’s a luxury that few can afford.
That’s it for this week, folks. As always, feel free to share any gems I may have missed, and my Kosmail is open all week for nominations. Most of all, keep writing. Your perspectives and voices are valuable and needed as we fight this good fight.
We’re so glad you’re here.