I ponder this often. When does our views have to divide us and what does unity mean. I’m saddened by the recent events which you experienced. I admire your ever expanding willingness to voice your beliefs. To stand with the oppressed and the marginalized. 💜
Thank you, Amie. I know we both hate to feel we are adding to the already divisive culture. It truly is my only goal to share truth and hopefully unite people around the truth.
It takes tremendous courage to write from the heart the way you do and allow yourself to be vulnerable. I agree that whenever we speak, write, or act from an honest place, we risk creating "division," but I've never read anything by you that is remotely hostile. It's always thoughtful and measured. You inspire me to be bolder and braver. (Still working on it ;-) I appreciate you, Marcia.
I have friends on both sides of the fence. However, I've had "friends" on one side block me on FB just because of the "friends" I had on the other side. They didn't even bother to ask me where I stood on certain issues. Instead, they deemed me guilty by association. If they'd have bothered to ask, I would have told them everyone has a right to their beliefs and opinions. And I can still respect and be friends with everyone, whether or not I agree with their viewpoints. And often times, the truth is found somewhere in the middle anyway. As Pontius Pilate asked Jesus in the rock opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, "What is truth? Is mine the same as yours?"
Many people are incredibly reactive these days. I’m sorry that happened to you. I guess the Pharisees tried to deem Jesus “guilty by association” too when he ate with what they considered the “worst of society”. If people leave us because of that, then, as I’ve heard said — “let them”.
Keep on keeping on please. Your words of affirmation and your willingness to lovingly question the status quo have been uplifting to many, including me. Love you!
Sister M, I can attest to every single thing you have written in this post. In previous churches, I used to be the nice quiet guy who prayed with people and they were ever so nice to me. But when I started sharing my opinions online, many started attacking me online without any private warning or notice. Moreover, speaking for Black people, even if you engage us privately to convince us that we are wrong, we don't want to hear it. We know what we experience in our every day lives, and we need allies, not detractors. You are speaking and sharing the truth. Do not be dismayed or bothered. Times like this separate us from the wheat people (people who really love and understand you) and the chaff people (people who are uncomfortable with your opinions and views). I love you, I'm thankful for you, and I beg of you, please keep speaking out!
I love you and the wonderful example you set. Thank you for speaking from a wounding experience and being vulnerable with your readers. I applaud your courage and hope to follow your lead.
I ponder this often. When does our views have to divide us and what does unity mean. I’m saddened by the recent events which you experienced. I admire your ever expanding willingness to voice your beliefs. To stand with the oppressed and the marginalized. 💜
Thank you, Amie. I know we both hate to feel we are adding to the already divisive culture. It truly is my only goal to share truth and hopefully unite people around the truth.
It takes tremendous courage to write from the heart the way you do and allow yourself to be vulnerable. I agree that whenever we speak, write, or act from an honest place, we risk creating "division," but I've never read anything by you that is remotely hostile. It's always thoughtful and measured. You inspire me to be bolder and braver. (Still working on it ;-) I appreciate you, Marcia.
Thank you, Sara! I appreciate YOU too!
I have friends on both sides of the fence. However, I've had "friends" on one side block me on FB just because of the "friends" I had on the other side. They didn't even bother to ask me where I stood on certain issues. Instead, they deemed me guilty by association. If they'd have bothered to ask, I would have told them everyone has a right to their beliefs and opinions. And I can still respect and be friends with everyone, whether or not I agree with their viewpoints. And often times, the truth is found somewhere in the middle anyway. As Pontius Pilate asked Jesus in the rock opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, "What is truth? Is mine the same as yours?"
Many people are incredibly reactive these days. I’m sorry that happened to you. I guess the Pharisees tried to deem Jesus “guilty by association” too when he ate with what they considered the “worst of society”. If people leave us because of that, then, as I’ve heard said — “let them”.
Keep on keeping on please. Your words of affirmation and your willingness to lovingly question the status quo have been uplifting to many, including me. Love you!
Thank you, sweet friend! Love you and appreciate your encouragement. Let’s chat soon. We need to catch up!
Sister M, I can attest to every single thing you have written in this post. In previous churches, I used to be the nice quiet guy who prayed with people and they were ever so nice to me. But when I started sharing my opinions online, many started attacking me online without any private warning or notice. Moreover, speaking for Black people, even if you engage us privately to convince us that we are wrong, we don't want to hear it. We know what we experience in our every day lives, and we need allies, not detractors. You are speaking and sharing the truth. Do not be dismayed or bothered. Times like this separate us from the wheat people (people who really love and understand you) and the chaff people (people who are uncomfortable with your opinions and views). I love you, I'm thankful for you, and I beg of you, please keep speaking out!
Thank you, brother T! Your voice is one that inspires me regularly. Grateful for your support and your presence in my life.
No, thank you! You have inspired my next post. You may recognize someone I refer to not by name, but by words and deeds. Love you!
Can’t wait to read it!
I love you and the wonderful example you set. Thank you for speaking from a wounding experience and being vulnerable with your readers. I applaud your courage and hope to follow your lead.
You inspire me daily, Ramona!