How Liberals Think
You might want to watch this. It might clue you in on how the "other" side thinks. Of course if you are a liberal, and semi-open to hearing how you're perceived, you might learn something as well.
For us, the American ideal is personified in the concept of self-reliance, work ethic, honesty/forthrightness, decency, personal property rights, family, religion, an ability to defend oneself from criminals and crooked politicians, and personal responsibility.