Ben Stein and the Hollywood Stars
Mood:  caffeinated
Topic: Politics
During his lecture (see yesterday's post if you don't know what I am talking about) Ben Stein told us who he thought the real stars are.

Not those Hollywood left wingers who get paid millions for movies, but rather the soldiers and policemen, and those who do good things for others. According to Ben Stein, those are the real stars.

I see the point Ben, but, I have to disagree. Alec Baldwin and Barbara Streisand are indeed stars. Sean Penn and Tim Robbins and all the rest of the liberals you don't like are stars. Al Franken, who you love, but don't like, is a star. We pay money to see them. They have fame and fortune, that makes them stars.

You're a star too Ben. We listen to you too. Would the auditorium have been half as full if not for "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and "Win Ben Stein's Money"? Which of your titles garnered the most applause last night, speech writer, lawyer or game show host?

What you, and most of those other stars are not, is heroes. There is a difference. The soldiers, the cops, the red cross workers, individuals who help others in need are heroes.

Some people like Harrison Ford (who flew his personal helicopter in dangerous situations to help people in the past) and Sean Penn (who got a boat and rescued Katrina survivors) are both.

You seem to think that the stars (along with the media) should not be voicing their opinions at a time like this, while all the while you are voicing yours.

What makes it okay for you to voice your opinion and not them?

Everyone has the right and the duty to voice their opinions. That is what makes this country great.

It is not up to you, me or anyone else to tell someone to be quiet. It is what we do with the ideas that matter.

Everyone must embrace with reason the ideals they choose to accept. I don't agree with a star because they are a star. But, their voices are louder and have a better chance of being heard, and whether I agree or disagree I am glad that they use those voices.

"All tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent." - Thomas Jefferson