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Often, we consider ourselves as independently minded persons who do not fall into a particular category. It is our uniqueness that makes us who we are.

Yet while we desperately try to remain a unique entity, we put great effort into associating ourselves with a larger movement. In essence, many of us live in a paradoxical world of struggle with being one yet belonging to the many. We Americans love to associate ourselves with a group, an ideology, or system of thought. After all, our nation's motto, embossed on our coin and paper currency reads, E Pluribus Unum, from many, one.

So why do create and perpetuate such angst ridden existence. Why do we purposefully place a label on ourselves? I believe the answer can be found in something I call the likeability factor. We all want to be liked regardless of our quirkiness or unique characteristics.

Politicians rank first in this category. They have and will say just about anything to achieve the highest likeability among voters as this will lead the highest electability. This year's Republican primary has been a treasure trove of labels.

At every news conference, debate, or public gathering, the candidates have clearly identified themselves with a label that will set themselves apart from the others, and in so doing, associate themselves with a core group of voters. For example, each candidate has called himself a "Conservative" or a "true Conservative," and even "the only Conservative."

With each candidate claiming the label, Conservative, there is very little to distinguish them. And from the amount of money they are spending in each state primary, there is very little evidence to indicate they are demonstrating any fiscal conservatism.

In like manner the candidates have implored voters to choose them based upon their religious persuasion. Romney, Santorum, and Gingrich have all stressed the fact that they are "Christians." Only Ron Paul stands out in this category as he never speaks about his religion.

None of the candidates talk about their military service to their country as only Ron Paul has served in the armed forces as a flight surgeon and then in the reserves. Romney and Gingrich received deferments while Santorum did not serve.

Finally, we arrive at the topic of preparedness. Each candidate feels that only he is prepared to take on President Obama in an election. Romney offers his successful business and political record. Gingrich offers up his superior intellect. Santorum puts forth his theological orthodoxy. Paul offers up everything including much that I do not understand.

What these and other politicians fail to grasp is that the majority of Americans, including Republicans, simply want a candidate who will use common sense when dealing with the day to day operations of the country. Sadly, this is a label that none of the candidates have claimed, and yet, it is the one that would give them the edge in electability.

My advice to the four remaining candidates is this: drop all the nonsense about conservatism as all of you have spent money that was not yours and will continue to do so if elected, go to church, pray and be quiet about it, practice up on your debate skills avoiding the adjective severe when describing a positive attribute, and above all, use some common sense. And that is to the point.

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