i also have another question. my older family members and teachers at my school make sarcastic remarks about me being ''such a little hippie"((that's what they call me)) is it such a bad thing that i have the same morals and beliefs as hippies? they were there once,right? my teachers are always trying to snoop, like to see if i am into drugs..i have my share ya know..but doesn't everyone? why are they so curious?anyway, thanx for your time and i hope to hear from you soon.
much love old hippie,
**young hippie**

The current definition of liberal is someone who advocates economic equality and personal freedom. In other words, liberals are the antithesis of conservatives (in theory anyway). Conservatives advocate submission to their concept of conformity - usually based on religious convictions. They want everyone to toe their line. Conservatives also oppose sharing the wealth. They feel they've "earned it" and expect everyone to do likewise, thus they oppose welfare and most democratic institutions that seek to help those economically disadvantaged.

Of course, your dad is probably referring to the personal freedom part. If others are calling you a little hippie, it's probably because you visually remind them of other hippies because of how you dress, wear your hair, speak or act. Rarely are people accused of being hippies because of how they THINK! But that is at the core of being a hippie.

If you are very vocal, if you defend those who others attack, if you treat people equally, if you are concerned about the rights of other people as well as animals, if you respect the environment, if you're a vegetarian, if you advocate the use of marijuana or other mind expanding drugs, if you entertain visions of a better world where peace, love, respect and tolerance are not just empty words, then my friend, you are one of us, regardless of how you look!

And that means more than any label.

Peace,
The Old Hippy