I have always been a little confused about what makes a person a liberal.

Now, thanks to Jim Evans' letter in Wednesday's News-Leader, I have a much better understanding, especially since he claims to be an authority on the subject. First, he describes a liberal as a Democrat (or, at the very least, anti-Republican). He does not believe in God. Church teachings are "unbelievable," but those of Spinoza, Russell, Rand, Camus and Asimov are infallible. He harbors no biases against homosexuals and he supports their agenda. Women who have abortions "have a better life because of that decision."

A liberal believes that government's most important role is to oversee "social or economic injustice to ensure a fair and level playing field." He wants government to "provide access to education, health care, infrastructure and security to all." He also wants government to instigate constitutional, political and administrative reforms. People should work "to make a difference" rather than "work to make money." He believes that conservatives are devoted to "oppressing social and economic freedoms." Evans claims that liberals, like himself, are "innately honest, analytical and empathetic," as well as "free of prejudice. . .and extreme believers in individual freedom."

Evans states that "the modern-day misuse of the term liberalism evokes a sinister connotation of an anti-American, Marxist, evil organized movement that is intent on eroding innovation and the spirit of hard work."

How anyone could ever get that connotation from his description of a liberal is beyond me. I sincerely appreciate his success in helping me better understand what a liberal stands for. I hope he has helped others understand also.

Bob W. Rush, Mansfield