I do agree with McMasters view on the juxtaposition of freedom of speech. We are fighting for freedom of our own causes, yet at the same time, attempting to silence those who oppose us. It is, of course, easy to rally behind things we agree with, but very difficult to respect those who do not share the same feelings. I struggle with this aspect personally.
Take the Westboro Baptist Church, for example. My beliefs and ethics pretty much oppose everything they teach--and openly protest. When I first heard about their protests and ranting about gays going to hell, I thought they should be shut down because such openly hateful rhetoric offended my lifestyle and personal beliefs. After further review, however, I cannot--provided they do not cause violence--demand that they be silenced. As Americans, we both have equal rights to free speech. Does this sit well with me? Of course not, but I can agree to disagree with their statements. They, unfortunately, would probably not do feel the same way.
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