I am somewhat of a hybrid because I am socially progressive and fiscally moderate. Instead of labels which may make positions safe listening to the other almost always leads to understanding. Putting people in niches may be gratifying, but it leads nowhere. Whether it be guns, the deficit or the way to move on the issues of the economy and education more will be gained by civil discourse than labels. This week I pledge to refrain from calling anyone right wing, left wing or any other convenient label. I will accompany this pledge by trying to keep my tongue from getting in the way of my ears.