In today’s political arena, it’s become increasingly clear that you can tell a lot about a person by the enemies they’ve amassed. It’s almost a badge of honor. After all, if you’re not ruffling a few feathers, are you even making a difference? Let’s take a moment to appreciate the art of enemy accumulation and what it says about our leaders and institutions.

Consider the recent discussions surrounding President Donald Trump’s so-called ‘enemies list.’ Reports suggest that as he starts another term, there’s a palpable sense of unease among those who’ve found themselves in his crosshairs. Government officials, intellectuals, and various critics are bracing for potential retribution. It’s reminiscent of Richard Nixon’s infamous list, which, while almost quaint by today’s standards, was a clear indicator of his paranoia and desire for control.

But let’s not kid ourselves into thinking this is a one-sided affair. The political left has its own way of designating adversaries. Conservative voices in academia, media, and other institutions often find themselves marginalized or outright silenced. The tactics may differ, but the intent is strikingly similar: suppress dissent and maintain ideological purity.

This brings to mind the age-old adage, ‘The enemy of my enemy is my friend.’ In the complex web of modern politics, alliances are often formed not out of shared values but mutual adversaries. It’s a strategy as old as time, employed in various forms throughout history.

However, in our current climate, the lines between friend and foe are increasingly blurred. Social media platforms, once heralded as democratizing forces, now act as arbiters of truth, often silencing voices that deviate from the accepted narrative. Mainstream media outlets selectively highlight stories that fit their agendas, leaving the public to sift through the noise in search of clarity.

So, where does that leave the average American? It’s a challenging landscape to navigate. But perhaps there’s a silver lining. By observing who stands opposed to whom, we can gain insights into the true nature of our leaders and institutions. As the Good Book says, ‘You will know them by their fruits.’

In the end, it’s not just about who your enemies are, but why they’re your enemies. Are they opposed to you because you stand firm in your principles, challenge the status quo, or advocate for genuine change? If so, perhaps their opposition is the greatest endorsement one could hope for.

In these tumultuous times, let’s wear our enemies’ disdain as a badge of honor, a testament to our commitment to truth, justice, and the American way.