My blog on the shutdown and civil speech has generated a number of interesting responses from different perspectives. This article was sent to me today; it raises the issues of communication and the ability or inability to hear opposing positions. It is from a columnist with definite political positions - can you consider what he has to say despite your agreement or disagreement with his political position?.

A ‘Wonderland’ moment for the court

“ ‘When I use a word,’ Humpty Dumpty said in rather a scornful tone, ‘it means just what I choose it to mean — neither more nor less.’ ”

.......

"Yes, in Tuesday’s Through-the-Looking- Glass moment, the court will be urged to declare that Michigan’s ban on unequal treatment violates the U.S. Constitution’s equal-protection clause. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit — divided 8 to 7, with five dissents — has said just that, citing what is called the political-restructuring doctrine. "......

For the full piece, see:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/george-f-will-a-wonderland-moment-for-the-court/2013/10/11/2f8dd95c-31f1-11e3-8627-c5d7de0a046b_story.html