I think that I am a true liberal in the traditional sense of the word...

I'd have to say that in your case that's true, skymutt.  You strike me as a liberal in the mold of Nat Hentoff.  Seems to me he epitomizes what true liberalism was before it was hijacked by the far left.  I've found plenty to disagree with you on ideologically, but on balance, I'd say you're probably one of the most fair-minded liberals out there.