What does it mean to be a conservative?

Being a conservative is following a set of core principles. These do not waver with the political wind.

Alfred S. Regnery, author of “Imaginative Conservative,” mentions four pillars of conservatism.

The first pillar of conservatism is liberty or freedom. Conservatives believe that individuals possess the right to life, liberty, property and freedom from the restrictions of government. They use their natural free will to pursue their dreams.

The second pillar of conservative philosophy is tradition and order. Conservatives work to maintain the values established over centuries that have led to an orderly society.

The third pillar is the rule of law. Conservatism is based on the belief that it is crucial to have a legal system that is fair and just for all people.

The fourth pillar is belief in God. For conservatives, there must be an authority greater than man, greater than government.Quotes from former President Ronald Reagan: “Government is not a solution to our problem; government is the problem.“Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We must never remain silent in the face of bigotry. We must condemn those who seek to divide us. In all quarters and at all times, we must teach tolerance and denounce racism, anti-Semitism and all ethnic or religious bigotry, wherever they exist as unacceptable evils. We have no place for haters in America – none, whatsoever.”

Diana Snodgrass

Durango