the difference between liberals and Liberals

what does it mean to be a liberal? the political stances we associate with the term do not define it. A real liberal is open-minded to the beliefs of others. She respects opinions which differ from her own and is not threatened by them. She is concerned with the welfare of all people, whether they share her culture or not.
These values lead to espousing universal health care, wealth redistribution, gay rights, etc. But holding these political positions makes you Liberal - it doesn't make you liberal. For that, you need to respect the opposing viewpoint, not disdain it.