Why is the word conservative such a dirty word to some people?

It appears that those who are liberal in their political views would want to change almost everything in government. Our country has been greater, more peaceful, and more bountiful in the past. Does it not make sense that we should try to conserve much of what this country was founded on/for? A conservative government should be one that allows peace and safety to reign in our country and let everyone liberally do as they please. Too often liberals want government to get involved in things like healthcare and retirement only to find out that even more of their own freedom is being taken away. I will conclude that though I don't agree with much of what liberals stand for in government, I do not see this country divided as our media likes it to appear. We can and must co-exist to show others what freedom is. Freedom is not allowing the government to get involved in too many aspects of its' peoples lives. Respect one another--even idiotic conservatives--it will become contagious!.