A Few Thoughts: Politics, Religion, & Morality

The following is a facebook post from one of my high school friends:

 "I wish my moderate Republican friends would simply be honest. They all say they're voting for Romney because of his economic policies (tenuous and ill-formed as they are), and that they disagree with him on gay rights. Fine. Then look me in the eye, speak with a level clear voice, and say, "My taxes and take-home pay mean more than your fundamental civil rights, the sanctity of your marriage, your right to visit an ailing spouse in the hospital, your dignity as a citizen of this country, your healthcare, your right to inherit, the mental welfare and emotional well-being of your youth, and your very personhood." It's like voting for George Wallace during the Civil Rights movements, and apologizing for his racism. You're still complicit. You're still perpetuating anti-gay legislation and cultural homophobia. You don't get to walk away clean, because you say you "disagree" with your candidate on these issues."

The following is my response:

Havilah Droddy Andersen Actually, Jason, I don't claim to disagree with Romney on moral issues. And I AM voting for him largely because i believe that his economic policies will be sounder--and have more positive impact--than Obama's. It isn't really an issue of take-home pay for me, either; though we are NOT wealthy & could be negatively affected by any tax changes that may occur. For me, the economic issue boils down to our staggering national debt and our sluggish economy. Also, I'm definitely NOT voting for him simply because of the mormon connection. I believe strongly that we live in a great nation, and i try to be more thoughful--and respectful--of our politcal process than that. That said, there is certainly a corner of my soul that believes it's important to have a morally upright person lead our country, and that a president who prays to the same God America was founded upon will be led to make the best choices for our nation. I do love seeing your posts on here & knowing that you're alive & well. I think we can agree to disagree & recognize that that's part of what makes this a great nation. One great thing about you: you've never just passively let a situation resolve itself; if it concerns you, you care enough to speak out. Thanks for letting me share my two cents. take care!

 

I wasn't sure what response my comment would generate, though I assumed people probably wouldn't applaude what I had to say.  Here's the only comment (so far) directed back to me:

 

Bigotry is bigotry no matter how nicely you put. Thank you. I support a President who believes in ethics and who stands with people of this country and who believes in giving basic human rights to everyone. I stand by the president who does not disown 47% of the country. I stand with a President who fights for basic dignity of mankind. I believe he is the one following the principals of the founding fathers without playing the God card.

 

WOW!  I've never been called a bigot before, but I can handle that, if only because I'm pretty sure that the word doesn't define me acurately.  More difficult (for me) is the use of the phrase "the God card".  I guess that's how some people feel Heavenly Father---and the values & principles he espouses--"fit" into society.  It makes me sad. 

 

And, no, I didn't respond to the comment. I felt that I needed to make my first comment, but then my job was done. I will not fight a war with words on facebook.  I'll just wait for the Prince of Peace to come and make all things right again.  I believe a lot of people will be surprised by what happens then. But I think the dialogue is intersting, and I wanted to share. Thanks for reading.