Common Craft Blog
Not Talking Politics is Hard
By leelefever on October 03, 2008 - 3:23pm
Sachi and I have an ongoing discussion that I want to share with you, dear reader, because I want to hear your feedback.
When I was a consultant, people would ask me what subjects are appropriate for a blog. Inevitably I would say that it should reflect the person behind the blog and what is important to them. It should be multi-faceted and provide personality along with on-topic content. I would also say that context matters - company blogs deserve special care, for instance.
So here I am with the Common Craft blog and there are two things that are very important to me right now:
1. Making videos
2. The Presidential Elections
My instinct is to talk about both on this blog. I have a lot to say about the elections and I'm very passionate. However, I'm making a conscious effort to keep Common Craft on-topic and apolitical. A few reasons:
1. You didn't subscribe or visit to hear my thoughts on politics.
2. Common Craft is a brand and a business. It could be a risk to make political positions a part of a brand that hopes to appeal to as many people as possible.
3. Common Craft is both Sachi and me. While we agree on some things, I would never speak on Sachi's behalf regarding politics.
However, I am very passionate about this election and I feel that it's my duty to stand up for what I believe and to be a part of the discussion in places where I can have the most impact, including this blog. I have other ways to share my views, but nothing that compares to this blog's reach and potential.
We are living through an absolutely profound part of history that will impact us all. In my heart I know it could be a big mistake to suddenly share my politics on this blog, but it's so very hard not to take that step.
What do you think?
I have been experiencing the
I have been experiencing the same dilemma in my own blogging experience. Should I or shouldn't I discuss politics? From a business standpoint, I agree with your reasoning - not to blog about politics. You risk losing half your audience. Many who disagree with you, of course, would remain loyal to you, because of the excellent products and services you offer. Even so, I think it would likely open up a bitter debate on your blog in the comments section - unless you disallowed comments on those posts. It is probably best to keep the two arenas separate.
You could launch a separate blog for political speak without references to Common Craft. Although many will equate the two, at least your customers who choose not to participate in your political discussion would not receive the political blogs or have to subject themselves to the debate comments.
I appreciate your keeping
I appreciate your keeping politics separate from the Common Craft blog, which I really value for what it covers. I think your reasoning - the reasons why you shouldn't do it - is very sound. There are tons of blogs out there already discussing politics, why not just participate in those? Or, if you want to engage with your "readership" on politics, you could start a new blog and ask us to subscribe.
Hey Lee, I would totally
Hey Lee,
I would totally subscribe to an RSS feed for a separate Crafty Political Blog A la Lee if you made one. However, I think you would be wise to separate business from politics. You never know when that bridge might burn down as a result. While I think you probably could navigate those waters since it's a two-person company, you might want to play it safe.
If you decide to write about politics, be sure to let us all know where to go to read!
A new blog?
Indeed, why not start a new blog? I, and I'm sure others, would read it. It doesn't have to be formal, just make it clear that on that page, you're speaking for yourself and yourself alone. You have a gift of making things easy to understand, and it shouldn't go to waste in these pressing times. If you're worried that people wouldn't follow you to a new blog for this topic, then I definitely wouldn't discuss those things here -- it will surely be seen as hijacking your company's platform to promote a message.
Our first political post
I have a personal blog (http://juliegomoll.typepad.com), where I don't hesitate to discuss politics. But on the LaunchPad Coworking blog I've avoided it. I'm vocal personally, but like you wrote, people aren't reading the LPC blog for politics. That said, it's not too hard to make a pretty good guess as to my general politics, or that of Spike Gillespie, who also writes for our blog.
Then a couple weeks ago I had the opportunity to beta test the new Obama '08 iPhone app. I was thrilled. I decided to post about the new app when it was released.
I'm quite sure no one read it and though "OMG, she's liberal?" Then again, a gushing review of an Obama app makes it quite clear where I stand.
My thinking: the company blog isn't the place for political ranting. But this wasn't ranting. It was a calm review of an app that appeals to Democrats. I'll leave the ranting to my other blog.
I have a much narrower audience than you do. And people who are interested in coworking and the associated values tend to be of a like mind, so I have fewer concerns about putting off potential customers.
important question
It's a tough question, but congrats on approaching it in such an open way. Your brand and whatever media you use to support that brand should be aligned. Since your CC brand is not political I think it should be kept that way. That being said, personal expression and the personality that it ads to the medium is necessary for your personal happiness more than anything.
Start a personal blog. CC blog has grown to be a go to spot for great videos and creative explanation of challenging concepts (for many) . Leave that as such and offer another option to those people who are interested in you and your thoughts. It will build deeper loyalties for some and leave your CC brand to do what it does best, explanation in a great video form.
My blog has gone through the same though process, though I don't have a formal business or brand built around it. I found that the only way for me to be passionate (and thus successful) at it is to write about things I care about, regardless of niche i may want to target. Goes against the typical recommendations of how to start a blog, but it is essential to my commitment level.
Don't leave the politics, just do it somewhere else. And when you do, let me know, i'll follow.
Agree
There is a certain lack of civil discourse in our country and you would be crazy to discuss politics. I'm basically a libertarian, so I really dislike McCain, and like Obama even less, to say nothing of the VP candidates. But there is almost no debate about where people stand on the issues and how each candidate would govern. It's devolved to Bush vs. Change. Well, McCain clearly ain't Bush, and Obama, well he hasn't changed much of anything. There is no true discussions or arguments - hearing people out, why do people think that, etc.
If you noticed, Michael Jordan never took principled (Liberal :-) stands on issues - his comment was republicans buy shoes too. In this climate politics have no place in a corp blog. There are too many lunatics out there. Just look at what happened to Joe Lieberman (Who could have and potentially should have declared as an independent based on the unbelievable treatment he received from the Net (nut?) roots crowd - if he had the Repubs would have a majority in the senate!)
Hey Lee, Yeah, I would
Hey Lee,
Yeah, I would definitely keep politics off of CC. I have faith that you'd keep it respectful to everyone (which is where a lot of people fail), but it'd be better just to have a separate blog.
At the same time, though, as David said, people will equate the two... and that's probably fair. I mean, if the CEO of a company said something that offended your personal beliefs, you'd be less likely to be a patron of the company further. I guess you have to decide if you feel it's worth it to you. :)
Patrick
Separate blog
First, thank you for considering your audience in this matter and asking for feedback.
Considering the ease of creating a new blog, I would suggest doing that. As you mentioned, Common Craft is a business. The reason I subscribe to the feed is that I may keep track of CC related happenings. Since CC is a small company of two, I think it safe to assume some subscribers would also be interested in the views of its members. Therefore, I would not mind news of a different blog being started for other purposes. I think also by the alienating nature of politics, it is wise not to associate those views with CC.
cheers!
General
I so agree about being torn between wanting to participate in the political dialogue yet also wanting to avoid offending potential/existing clients who may hold opposing points of view. You do such great work, so I understand the risk and the concern.
I do think it might be possible to do both, if done skillfully. There are some people that are good at expressing their views in a way that is specific (not wimpy), and is also not offensive, and done in a way that is respectful and aware that others may have differing opinions. If done right, I think it can show: another side of your personality; honesty; authenticity; and a non-arrogant self-confidence. Showing that you are not afraid to take a stand, while at the same time being respectful and tolerant of all points of view, can be a good business quality.
I'd rather you did political videos
Lee,
You know what I'd love to see? I would love to see Common Craft videos explaining some of the actual issues in this election and in the recent news. For instance, you could do a lot to explain the reasons for the financial crisis, or how it relates to former policies or what to do about it.
What might be even more interesting, and might even allow you to keep the videos solidly within your brand and your blog, would be if they really presented both sides of each issue clearly and accurately, which is something I think you're uniquely suited to do. You have a singular talent for explaining complex stuff simply without having to dumb down the presentation or insult the viewer… that's quite rare. And I see this working in your favor politically even if you don't personally express which side you agree with because it might just help people vote the issues, intelligently, with an understanding of what they are, what they mean, where they're going, etc. Even if the viewers of the videos didn't vote the same way you do, it seems like helping them to vote from their intellect rather than their tastes might be a good thing.
I'm also pretty sure that if you approached the candidate of your choice with an offer to do videos in support of their campaign (through explaining complex issues, not as the normal campaign video), you could wind up with a client… and that might be a way to get your views out there really effectively without alienating your core audience. Because we certainly know that you have to pay the bills, and that a presidential campaign is a real coup as clients go. No one seems to be bothered that you take corporate clients (and they shouldn't be). Couldn't you take political clients as well?
Political videos
I'd love to see some political videos too--although, I agree that it should be a separate, venture (that doesn't mean you can't mention it in your Common Craft work. Just think what a lasting effect that Schoolhouse Rock videos have had.
You just described why I
You just described why I have two blogs. Reached a similar conclusion about 3 years ago and split the "personal junk" into a separate blog. Sometimes I cross post, just a short "you might like..." to let the "professional" blog readers know about related posts. It's interesting the personal blog has less than 10% of the subscriptions but far more search derived traffic.
Common theme...
I subscribe to Commoncraft because I like your products and your company. I liked getting to know you and Sachi through the China bit and other vacation soirees, but I really don't want to have to sort out the politics, so I'd probably unsubscribe to this blog if it contained political content (Whether I agreed with it or not). Passionate politics is a sure way to alienate part of your audience. It's like religion, keep it separate. The big thing, even if you presented your views skillfully, your audience may not be so skillful in commenting. It's a slippery slope. Start a new blog and post a link on this one, but keep 'em separate.
Blog on!
Personal Politics
At first salvo, I think hearing political preferences of a manager inserted in one of the corporate meetings isn't exactly good taste [even more so if there's divergent views], Lee.
Yet, bad taste and all, I don't think it's brand or career suicide to express strong feelings about it, too. Just make sure that you do post out of strong conviction and not underhanded, personal attacks. You can't help it if people disagree with you but it can make for a better understanding of the situation given the different perspectives.
Another blog? I say it's taking easy way out but then again, it's just me.
Best.
alain
[I know it's really off topic but it kind reminds me of a man who lived centuries ago who followed what he believed and for a time, was ridiculed and paid for it by being an outcast. He's from Assisi and goes by the name of Francis. Oh, and I certainly don't intend to talk about religion. Honest.]
middle ground
Hi Lee,
I think there's a middle ground between the "play it safe" strategy and making this blog into a political platform. If you have lots of political opinions to express, I agree that a separate blog is appropriate. But I think that occasional posts here for particular issues that really matter to you is worth the risk.
A recent example of this is Google's posting a position on California Prop 8 (Gay Marriage Ban)
http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2008/09/our-position-on-californias-no-on...
But there is of course risk. I haven't really done much professional blogging, but do have a personal blog. I recently had a business deal fail because the other party was uncomfortable that I was openly gay on my personal blog. While I lost some potential income, I'm glad that I found out that this wasn't someone I would have wanted to work with anyway.
I think we're seeing the decline of people working solely to maximize the dollars they earn and instead trying to find a way to make a living but still be true to themselves. You definitely strike me as someone dedicated to finding that balance and I'd encourage you to find that middle ground on this issue as well.
-John Hathaway
Seems obvious to me that you
Seems obvious to me that you should just start a separate personal blog if you buy into the idea that business shouldn't mix with politics.
obvious
Seen fromhere, Europe, US elections deal with right and ultra-right - what's the point? KISS and stick to videos Lee, Tony
Dont
Just let it go Lee.... I don't see you talking about religion, another flash topic. If you really have to, start a completely different blog. If you don't, it could hurt business.
Rob
OUCH
Yes, same dilemma here. However, there are so many viewpoints and I watched http://election.twitter.com turn into a mess of hate the other night after the VP debates. Too many time we want so badly to believe everything that is written in emails and blogs and every claim their side makes and not do the research ourselves.
I would say set up a separate blog to talk about politics. Also, remember that whatever you put in print is there forever. People can always go to www.FactCheck.org to check the "claims" being made by either party. If, for example, you write about something that your candidate had claimed as if it were truth, then someone went to factcheck.org and found the truth to be different, your credibility would go out the window along with your candidates.
Tough decision. It may lose you readers, may not. I agree with a few of the other commenters - I wouldn't do it here. Maybe link to it from here, but don't do it here. I know that I send a lot of people here now. I would not send them if there were political viewpoints on the blog.
Just my opinion.
Roxanne
Politics and business?
Read this post and then decide; http://e1evation.info/?p=326. Mixing politics and business is a two edged sword...
Politics and Business
Your brand has nothing to do with Politics. Bill O'Reilly, Keith Olbermann, John Stewart are clearly political brands.
Choose to dilute your current brand with logic not emotions. Business life forces hard choices. What do you want to be?
If you're passionate about the politics, I suggest saving your "CommonCraft" brand for what it's best at. Create a new and separate brand for your political views. Keep a public firewall between the two. Fuel the two separate agendas with your creative passions and abilities.
I hope you your ultimate decisions serves your goals well. I love your videos, but I *may* loathe your politics.
Best Wishes,
Carl
To blog or not to...
Like any other responsible business owner, I totally get it when you say that you have a brand to look out for -- have you considered linking onto Common Craft a personal blog?
I would not totally dismiss the conversations around politics as this particular election in the US is very historical and crucial not only to the freeworld but to humanity as well. There are so many issues to discuss - issues that not only affect Americans but the whole world!
I wouldn't want to miss out on not speaking out as this too is your responsibility to your fellowmen. Speak up - you have the resources to -- put it in good use.
Blessings!
Jocelyn
the park district
My father ran a small business in a town of about 150,000 people. Early in his career, he looked for ways to get involved with his community. He chose the park district. When I started my career, it finally occurred to me to ask why. Afterall, he’s still being pursued by several to run for mayor. He enlightened me that his business depended on the people of his community and that when you become an elected official, you guarantee that you [upset] at least half of them at some point and probably the other half later.
Who doesn’t like going to the parks?
Before he retired, the community named a new park after him – for the service that he gave. The town doesn’t have a park named after any elected official.
Cheers,
Dan
Agree--dont' do it but it's tempting
I agree that you need to keep politics out of the workplace. Especially in this day when it's been so contentious. You'll just make enemies in an increasingly polarizing environment. Having said that, we should all try to find a way to voice our opinions without becoming ugly. We need to learn how to discuss our differences without getting personal. Sound naive?
Perhaps starting a new and separate blog is the way to go so that you don't speak for Sachi, yet give voice to your opinions. As a person who lives in Washington, I'm propably more conscious of politics and more atuned to the nuiances. I'm personally hoping the next administration will truly find a way to reach across the aisle and stop the gridlock caused by entremes both right and left.
Kay
Personal Blog
If I were you, I would not dilute the brand equity of commoncraft. I would have another personal blog in which to rave and rant all I want about politics or anything else for that matter!
We don't talk politics
Besides the fact that I'm from Canada and feel very frustrated by the american political situation (and helpless since we're powerless to affect any of it), I would echo what others have said here and keep politics to a different channel.
As a social media consultant, I would tell you that people like me have come to you and expect a certain type of information.
While there is nothing wrong with letting your list know that you're doing some political blogging somewhere else, I'd keep the CC blog on topic.
That said, as a Canadian, I enjoyed your "elections made simple" (or whatever it was called) I found it illuminating as the US system has always seemed a little topsy turvey to me.
So... ya... I love your videos (probably have no problems with your politics either... but) I'd keep on topic of creating easy to understand videos about complicated things - you do a great job of it, would be sad to loose viewers over something silly like who you're supporting in the next election and why.
Politics
Q: Should Lee discuss politics at his CommonCraft blog?
A, in One Word: No
A, in Two Words: Definitely not.
You're Right
Thanks for all the comments folks. It appears that there is real consensus and I agree. I do have other sites and services where I share my thoughts and link to articles, etc. and I plan to continue to use them.
Something that's been interesting... I often receive comments via email (something I love to see). There seems to be a different perspective from email commenters - they are much more likely to encourage me to speak my mind on CC. They point out that this election is different form anything we've faced before and deserves special consideration. Of course they see the risks, but I think it's interesting that medium appears to matters in terms of advice on this subject. Maybe private vs. public advice.
In the end, I will resist the urge to talk politics on Common Craft. It risks something that will last long after the elections. Thanks again for the input. Your help is a real asset.
Talk to the issues
I just ran across your blog today so I'm not totally up on what content you have. But I'd say that you could have a profound influence on the election if you made videos to explain political issues - sort of like what you did with the electoral college.
You could explain things like: why sometimes a senator votes against a bill that sounds like a good idea on the surface. That one issue bugs the crap out of me. When a politician says, "Bob voted against giving babies baby food." It makes people think that Bob doesn't like Babies. But in truth it's because there was a rider on there that would give oil companies the ability to drill for oil in national parks. I'm sure there are lots of topics like these that could benefit from your educational and entertaining form of elucidation.
the election
Lee
One of the most sincere compliments you could - and did - get is the high quality of the comments here - an education to me. As someone who writes about communicating to collaborate I have some leeway to share my views in one of my two blogs. Yet I am a paid consultant in one of the two campaigns. So, I agree with the above sentiments re some separation. With the wonders of the internet we have several ways of finding out where others stand.
Inviting polite, specific and substantive comments back when you do post you views would be a helpful step forward in our increasingly angry public conversations. Read The Big Sort for some reasons why this is happening.
.. and Oh how I would love it if you did a Commoncraft video on your view.
After being a reporter in many countries, and hearing from friends all over the world and here, I feel, more than any other time in my life, this election is pivotal. If only Lincoln could speak to Americans now about who could best lead our country.
Don't Do It
This election will come and go, but if you associate yourself and your company politically, you may reap some unwanted bad-will for a long time to come, long after the election and possibly the tenure of the new president, is over.
Business & Personality
I see a few posts above that you may have made your decision. And I think it's a good one: you do have other channels by which to speak your mind, and I'd hate to see you damage or dilute your Common Craft brand (a brand I like) with a discussion that often seems to get heated and personal.
To me part of the power and attraction of corporate or brand blogs is when some personality shines through. However, as you point out, this is a critical election and an amazing moment in time, but sadly it's one that is rarely discussed in very rational terms. Small political statements become big discussions quickly.
So again, a good decision, I think. (By the way, full disclosure: From what I have read from you, my political views match yours, but I still think it's a good decision.)
And interesting observation about the private (email) advice you have received versus the public (these posts). I'd be curious to know if that private advice to speak your mind here came from people in-line with your politics.
Why Talking Politics Blends Reality & Fantasy
Hi Lee -
I'm a huge fan of your work. And in my private life I've done a ton of phone-calling, local HQ work, and other campaign support for our next president -- ;-) I'm really passionate and vocal with everyone from the cashier at the local Costco ("Are you registered? Make sure you vote! ... and help register someone else!!") to my poor, long-suffering family members, who regularly must listen to my well-documented rants on behalf of my candidate.
But on my blog, the most I've done is to push people toward fact-checking sites and encourage them to seek the truth behind the smears, claims, and rants. And I hope (and pray... literally pray, every day) that the truth will reveal itself to all Americans and we'll make a great choice.
Unfortunately, whether we support McCain or Obama, I think there's a ton of wishing, fantasizing, dreaming, and hoping involved. I believe... have faith... that my guy will do all the things I can see him doing as I join him in his vision of a better future. However, as I've come to know from trying to discuss matters of faith with relatives and friends, there's a great likelihood that I will hurt some feelings, offend some beliefs, and maybe even burn some bridges if I try to make them join me in that faith. Faith requires a readiness to make the leap. And that readiness is a highly personal thing, born of all sorts of unique experiences and hopes.
The bottom line: We can argue rationally about events and facts that happened in the past. But to argue about what our candidate will do in an imagined future, we must enlist our Faith in him and our Faith in the attainability of all sorts of elements of his vision and how the environment and other people will respond to his initiatives. In short, it's trying to sell a fantasy... a blessed, amazing, (and I believe totally achievable!) fantasy. And I can't expect my potential clients, customers, or blog readers to all join me in that unique place in time and space that will enable them to enter that fantasy with me. So, in business settings, I only respond with my political views when asked point-blank. Otherwise, I try to do as Ghandi suggested: "Be the change we seek in others..."
Speak about your passions!
Dear Lee and Sachi,
Through your fascinating videos I have come to imagine not only your business but the human beings behind it.
I think that the very essence of Commoncraft is that you do not want to become machines but to really share your passions and beliefs.
I think that those who really see the quality of your videos will not stop watching them because you have this or that political standpoint.
In this blog, particularly I enjoy the clarity of your posts, the simplicity of your ideas. I just admire the way you and Sachi SAY things.
I strongly believe that your posts on politics may say much more than just what political party you support. They will speak about how much you guys want to see the values you believe in materialised.
Greetings from Argentina!
Marcela
it depends on who you want
it depends on who you want to listen to for each. i'd start another one for now and then later you can find a way to incorporate them... sounds like you want to do two different things but don't know what to do with the political blog. so, i'd start that one, get a clear idea of what you want to say and then bring a polished version here. this is a cool way to ask ppl for advice about social media and politics, though.
I would keep it separate
I come and enjoy your Common Craft comments and blog and that's what I want to read because it fulfills my need for good Social Media stuff. My primary need is information about Social Media, not politics. I think it would be a mistake to mix both.
If you want to talk politics, start a separate blog and I will likely read it on my 'spare', non business time!
I know haw you can not
I know haw you can not talking about politics - just not talking and that's all
Make a political blog and cross-promote
I think you should keep the purpose of this blog distinct. There are enough multi-purpose blogs out there. My suggestion: If you feel passionate about sharing your political views with your Common Craft readers, create a separate political blog and just add periodic SHORT blogposts here whenever you post over there, such as, "For my political views, see this new post at Crafty Political Blog: [link]."
And you could put "off topic" in the headline of each.
Beyond Common Craft
I think that the people here who say that the furthest you should go is to create a personal blog and put up a promotional link at Common Craft.
Obviously it is your decision, but you are spot on when you say that it would be a bad idea to tie the Common Craft brand to your personal politics.
What I would add is this: it may be tempting to use the reach that the Common Craft audience affords, but there is one more question you need to ask yourself: do you really believe that your personal opinion, no matter how passionate you may be about it, is so important that it should be brought before Common Craft readers. Readers who, as you pointed out, are generally here to see you guys express yourselves in areas that are not politics.
I have a personal blog and I do write about my own opinions on, well, just about everything. But on an internal work blog, say, I would not discuss the same subjects. The reason is not just because I think it would be inappropriate, but because my two cents is not really so important that I think it should be put in front of coworkers in that manner, in a professional environment.
Anyway, it is of course your call. But I would generally advise against it. And I'm sure if you started posting on the subject elsewhere you'd be able to draw a respectable readership from Common Craft regulars, without as much risk of losing any here.
When You Set Up The Political Blog Use A Different Video Style
I see it as an new opportunity for you to dispel mis-information with a new style of political video fact checking or explaining the process. Now yes this is being done on factcheck.org once a week but if you could create a new style that is unrelated to your current corporate style of information videos you might have another winner on your hands.
You could take a topic like electronic balloting and explain the pros and cons of using electronic voting machines.
There must be a way to create politically factually non-biased information that allows you to say what you need to say and protect your bread and butter.
I have to tell you. I have been involved with discussions on politics, race and gender. It wears you out. It burns you out and it can lead to a lack of faith in civility of fellow humans. It can be done but there are some bone stupid people who have access to keyboards. You really don't want them wandering around here.
This is a clean, well lighted place. As in illumination. You bring politics into the business mix and it might be ruination.
I know how you feel. It is an extraordinary time and how can anyone stay silent. But your business will last longer than the election. Hang in their kid, it is almost over.
Combining Politics with www.CommonCraft.com!
Hi Lee,
Firstly thank you for such a creative and instructive company, I LOVE your business. I stayed up last night and watched as many of your available topics as possible.
Relative to your Politics Passion I think you should create a video just showing the facts of both parties. Even with just the facts the decision is pretty clear.
Recently I had a friend summarize the health situation of both Presidential candidates (what medicines each are on and what foods are stocked on their campaign bus), a shocking revelation relative to live expectancy. This could be a CommonCraft video of fact and not opinion.
Good luck, I understand your dilemma,
Debra.
CommonCraft Politics OR JibJab Politics
Well you can always do it like JibJab:
http://sendables.jibjab.com/sendables/1191/time_for_some_campaignin#/tea...
Hi Lee: I strongly believe
Hi Lee:
I strongly believe that we should be able to voice our political opinions freely, if we do it objectively and respectfully. I don't think we should keep them secret out of political correctness. Having said that, I don't think that the CC blog is the right forum, especially because anything you say will invite comments, you will be forced to answer them, and things can get out of hand. The CC blog should be focused on your work. Start a personal blog where you can talk about politics and other topics that interest you but not necessarily tie in with your core business.
By the way, I'm having the same issues. There's a lot about politics that I would like to discuss, but I'm trying not to use my marketing and branding blog for that (although I've explored the marketing and branding angles of the bailout and the choice of Sarah Palin as VP running mate).
Good luck, and if you start a personal blog let us know...
Agree
Agree with others that have commented. Start a separate blog to talk about politics. I for one don't like blogs that mix various topics. I subscribe because of something that helps me in my business life, I don't need to see your recipes, children's pics, etc.
Keep this blog focused on what has made it successful.
Thanks
Doug
No, no, no, no, no!
You have a great thing going for you here at Common Craft. Don't screw it up with political bull. Nobody here really cares what your views are politically. After all, when I first came I didn't come because the link said "Click here to see what Lee says about Obama"; I came because you had kick arse videos that made it easy for people to learn new topics.
If you want to get all political and "spread your ideas" then do it in a more specialized enviroment dedicated just to that. I hope the next time I visit my favorite pizza joint the cook doesn't stop making my pizza and give me an earful on what he thinks about in politics lately.
FOCUS, FOCUS, FOCUS!
Not worth the risk
Hi Lee, I agree with most of the commentors before me. I dont think it is worth the potential risks by posting your political viewpoints on Common Craft. There are a wide variety of alternative forums where you can share and discuss politics, so if you want to get involved I would suggest sticking to them.
Thanks for NOT making this
Thanks for NOT making this political. Everything else is.
Please keep politics
Please keep politics seperate from the Common Craft blog - not all your readers are in the US!
I subscribe to this blog to learn about new Common Craft videos. If I were the remotest bit interested in the US presidential election (which I, like billions of other people, cannot vote in), I would subscribe to a political blog!
Thanks for asking for our opinions - lots of other people have started to include comments on the vice-presidential debate etc in the middle of their professional blogs without considering their readership.
My vote: don't tell us. Show
My vote: don't tell us. Show us :)
Could you not do a Political Common Craft Show video where you explain the different candidates' plans on one or two issues? It's usually hard to comprehend all the political blabbering (although I think this election is the most simple-spoken I can remember). Just food for thought.
I try to avoid political talk - and folks who rant about it :)
In my humble opinion... I try to avoid political discussion in person, online, everywhere. It grates on my nerves as much as telemarketers and door to door solicitors. I cheerfully agree that every person is entitled to their opinion, of course -- but why do I have to listen to it or read it? When friends and family bring it up I try to change the subject. When people I admire start ranting about it I cringe. It is just as boring as going to lunch with your grandma and hearing her lecture you the whole time about what you are eating, what you should eat instead, and are you remembering to floss every day? Good grief.
At one of Eben Pagan's seminars he tells the audience, "No comments about politics!" It is recorded on a video somewhere. I smiled when he said that - go Eben!
If someone creates a blog or a platform for the purpose of sharing witty political commentary, or if they are a comedian or social commentator, well that is a different matter and more power to them.
I'm so looking forward to when this election is over, ha ha. :)
Thanks for keeping it real.
Mark
Profound time in history - What History has taught me...
"We are living through an absolutely profound part of history that will impact us all. In my heart I know it could be a big mistake to suddenly share my politics on this blog, but it's so very hard not to take that step." quoting Lee
Hi Lee - BTW - the work CC does IS TOPS.
RE: "Profound part of history" - I'm 53. For those of you two decades or more younger than me, I offer up what experience has taught me.
While every time seems profound there were ones preceding this time that equaled or best today. In my experience it could include:
1. The day (1968, 13 years old, and overly political) when I shook Robert Kennedy's hand; two days later he was dead in LA. --PROFOUND
2. The day (1972, 17 1/2 years old, naive twit) when I visited our local selective service board with my concerned mom. Months later I had a lottery number. Two months after that they announced they would not be calling any more draftees. (BTW - Today I REALLY regret not having served. Service to country is one of the most admirable things I could have done -- I would have been much more marketable as well.) --PROFOUND
3. The day the Watergate story broke and within a year Nixon was gone. --PROFOUND
Fast Forward
4. 11 Sept 2001 --PROFOUND
5. 05 Oct 2008 - A bogus bailout indebting me and my children's children's children. --PROFOUND
The life lesson - Washington and everything that surrounds it will always serve up trouble - regardless of party politics.
The solution - be THE VERY BEST at SELF-GOVERNMENT. This will require self-sacrifice, self-examination, self-discipline, self-denial, generosity, compassion, caring, observation of need, knowing where you insert into society, one person-one action, not waiting for others to act, saying something kind, finding the best in your neighbor, etc, etc. (Wow... ... all these things I learned in church), find and embrace the spiritual space that is above everyones pay grade -- talk to God today. Everyday is PROFOUND. It's what we make of the day and how WE LEAD it; not what we expect from our elected.
Yes, keep your business separate from politics
Lee, Thanks for the great information you provide on Common Craft. I think you've made the right choice not to mix your personal persuasions with business. I agree with the first two concerns you stated:
1. You didn't subscribe or visit to hear my thoughts on politics.
2. Common Craft is a brand and a business.
I have the same concerns on my blog about grandparenting and technology. Although I have strong beliefs about politics and religion, I do not share them because of these same two reasons. My reader come to my blog to read about grandparenting. Blogs need to maintain focus.
Grandpa Shayne
Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes!
Haha just wanted to post that as a positive response to the person above. I think that starting a new blog seems to be the general consensus and I would agree. Keeping the focus of Common Craft on great web tips to help people is probably the wisest path.
However...throughout history people have had to stand up for what they think is right regardless of the consequences. I also like the idea of the person above who said do a Political Common Craft video.
Here's the test I apply to everything: Research and pray. Research others who have followed the path of mixing business and politics, and pray (to something larger than yourself, whatever that might be - if you're an atheist pray to Reason) for guidance.
Good luck!