Why I love the First Amendment

Do you know what I love about the First Amendment?

It means I can watch something like this and say…

Fuck you, Pat Robertson, you fucking fuck.

Then take a deep breath and do the right thing:

[Doctors Without Borders / Médecins Sans Frontières]’s work is based on the humanitarian principles of medical ethics and impartiality. The organization is committed to bringing quality medical care to people caught in crisis regardless of race, religion, or political affiliation.

MSF operates independently of any political, military, or religious agendas. … MSF is neutral. The organization does not take sides in armed conflicts, provides care on the basis of need alone, and pushes for increased independent access to victims of conflict as required under international humanitarian law. [link]

It’s easy to rant about Pat Robertson. I find his viewpoint distasteful, appalling, and hateful, but that crazy First Amendment language says that he’s got the right to say what he wants. But … I look at the philanthropic, somewhat insane, paid-a-token-wage actions of these medical professionals — who willingly volunteer to go into the worst humanity has to offer — and I know where I see the hand of compassion.

Here’s to those who speak less and do more.  You have my respect, my admiration, and my donation.

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