what is a liberal?

The term liberal is thrown around like it's a dirty word by conservatives, which is a shame because we should learn to respect other viewpoints. But I thought a lot of people may not even know what the heck liberal really means. My dad emailed this to me, and I thought it was great. Like me, he is a liberal Christian! And we are not alone! There are many many many out there. Maybe not too many in Texas... but there are some. And there are loads where I'm from, Oregon. And hey though Palin may not call any place that doesn't agree with her real America, I'm proud of my country and love the Constitution it was founded on!

Dictionary results for: liberal
Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1)

1. favorable to progress or reform, as in political or religious affairs.
2. (often initial capital letter) noting or pertaining to a political party advocating measures of progressive political reform.
3. of, pertaining to, based on, or advocating liberalism.
4. favorable to or in accord with concepts of maximum individual freedom possible, esp. as guaranteed by law and secured by governmental protection of civil liberties.
5. favoring or permitting freedom of action, esp. with respect to matters of personal belief or expression: a liberal policy toward dissident artists and writers.
6. of or pertaining to representational forms of government rather than aristocracies and monarchies.
7. free from prejudice or bigotry; tolerant: a liberal attitude toward foreigners.
8. open-minded or tolerant, esp. free of or not bound by traditional or conventional ideas, values, etc.
9. characterized by generosity and willingness to give in large amounts: a liberal donor.

Emphasis courtesy of my dad! (and me) :)