The Loyal Opposition

Idea for an essay: "The Loyal Opposition" -- the left has problems
because it is almost by definition "the opposition". This attitude of
opposing can shade into nihilism unless its balanced by "loyal". In
Britain, to the nation in the person of the queen. But in the US, to
what? The president is not the personification of the state and is
definitely not above the political fray. To the flag? No. Most
leftists have their loyality to ideas and ideals, maybe to ideals that
are identified with the US but often to others. And ideas are too
abstract. Often they are contradictory and muddled, too (like freedom
and equality for isntance -- both good but often in opposition to each
other).

So, how to be a loyal oppposition?

See also: Satan!