Alan: Sanity Restored

This past weekend, I traveled to Washington, D.C. to attend the Jon Stewart/Stephen Colbert Rally to Restore Sanity and/or fear. For those of you who don't know, this comedic duo each has their own faux-news show on Comedy Central. Although their strengths are quick wit, puns, and humor, they are incredibly insightful in critiquing both politicians and the media.

With an attempt to Restore Sanity, Jon Stewart launched the rally that was held this past weekend with the goal to reach out to those in the middle. Those who are tired of the overpowering voices of both the left and the right, and those who rationally try to look at their lives, their world, and their interactions with the greater humanity

Particularly moving were Stewart's closing remarks, which denounced the extreme points of view on all spectrums, and challenged people to continue living with dignity and decency for all people.

I personally found this to be one of the most helpful political statements made in recent history. Not only was the message good, and the delivery impeccable, but perhaps most importantly, the audience was captivated by a message that they needed to hear.

Too often are political extremists preaching to the choir of those who already believe in pinko-commy plots to over-govern and over-tax the people. Too often are other extremists telling their supporters of the devilish tea-partiers, or republicans with such a racist, bigoted agenda, that will surely seek to deepen racial and socio-economic divides and tensions.

Instead, Jon Stewart spoke to those of us in the middle. Although some of the targets of his humor may have been the media, or the politicians, his message was for the everyday independent person who needs to know that it is okay to disagree with someone, and still respect them as a person.

Some felt that Stewart's rally accomplished nothing. In a blog published by a democratic supporter, Stewart was criticized for not taking a partisan stand and helping the democratic cause. Although Stewart may lean more to the left politically, I believe this blogger missed the point. I think the rally hit the mark, and the fact that over 215,000 people showed up, when event coordinators were planning for 60,000 people goes to show that this nation is ready for sanity. This week, Jon Stewart provided the United States with a powerful symbol. A symbol for peace.