Welcome to my column; let's talk

Mark Twain once said, "It is better to keep your mouth shut and appear stupid than to open it and remove all doubt." However, I have found it very difficult to keep silent, even before I could truly form words. The real challenge here is to make sure all my utterances are well supported. So despite this great advise, and even against my own better judgment, I will bear the burdens of expressing my opinions in this column throughout the semester. I hope to prove this adage wrong, if only to my family and friends. \nIn no way do I possess supreme knowledge or completely original views. My justification for receiving the valuable opportunity is simply that I applied. People and politics consistently grab my attention and dominate my interests (which could likely cause problems in the end). As a sophomore, and sadly more of a Hoosier than any new mascot could ever be, I realize my experiences have been limited, but I am open to almost anything. I admit to my position as an average girl at a university with many exceptional people to draw from. \nWith that out in the open, I dream my column, if nothing else, provides inspiration and introspection. This will only occur as others move me to support (or become completely offended) by a certain cause or action. Walking and processing through life alone provides many chances for a better understanding, and questions should be asked at any opportunity. Unique opportunities or twists on common occurrences stimulate most of my editorial commentary. \nWhat to expect? That is an unanswerable question. Theoretically, my synopsis of IU life will be liberal, blunt and honest through my perceptions. (Not surprisingly, deep opinions will be aggressively expressed.) Future topics will cover national news: The Homeland Security director and his shady, Pennsylvanian past to the illegal entrapments and inhuman actions of the Enron corporation. Also, college issues such as outrageous campus organizations and indecisive students planning for their futures will be discussed. \nMore than anything, I am relying on my words stirring debate. I enjoy hearing other viewpoints, especially well supported theories. And although my column appears Fridays, I hope to attract readers with a wide array of interests, who will also give stimulating feedback. Luckily, this will be the one and only time I focus on what I have to offer. With each piece, I plan to direct readers to more in-depth information from people far more knowledgeable than myself. Recently, I have relied on the fairly impartial BBC for international coverage, and www.guerrillanews.com for direct, in-depth coverage on the U.S. government. I encourage everyone to explore all resources available for any opinionated topics. As the infamous Groucho Marx said, "Who are you going to believe, me or your own eyes"