One of the principles I was taught growing up was to respect other people's opinions. My parents held a high standard of integrity and respect in our house. I could certainly disagree with their opinions, which I did for the most part, but I had to respect it nonetheless. This would continue up through college and the different cities I moved to. Although I am still a very opinionated person and quick to argue a point, I respect the opinion of every person I speak with. Even if they are absolutely wrong and couldn't be further from the truth, they deserve a moment to speak their mind and argue their case. I converse with all my good buddies like they are morons, and I receive the same treatment in return. It's all good and fun, we don't take any of it personal. In doing this though, I find it necessary to play Devil's Advocate just to incite an argument. I bring this up because we disagree on almost everything, but we respectively give each other time to speak. Between all the yelling, of course.

Austin is a very relaxed, open and liberating town. It is a little liberal oasis in the heart of Texas. I came from a pretty conservative town that I felt absolutely no connection with growing up. It's still home, though. That will never change. Moving to Austin was a culture shock at first, but as I settled in I knew I would fit right in. This type of town reinforces an open personality. You will hear so many different opinions about everything in this town because of how diverse both The University and city is. Look at Alex Jones. I completely disagree with 95% of what this guy says, but I think it is awesome that he's saying it. I love seeing people question the establishment and conspiracy theories, but he goes too far. But I have to respect his opinion if I want him to respect mine. That's how it goes. It's cool though, I'll play the game. We need more people who speak their minds without any regret. What an honest society that would be.