We have to put things in perspective

[markdohle]

We have to put things in perspective

We’re supposed to treat all people with respect and compassion - Not everyone who experiences same sex attraction are radical homosexualists campaigning naked in the streets. People with same sex attraction are not all rabid atheists looking to destroy the church and persecute Christians. We have to put things in perspective and give ourselves a reality check. This doesn’t mean we approve of homosexual actions. It just means we should be thoughtful, aware and intelligent in our responses. We must welcome everyone to the joyful and difficult adventure of following Jesus Christ in the way of charity, chastity and holiness.--- Fr Longenecker (http://dwightlongenecker.com/)

It is easy to forget that it is natural to judge an opposing group by its ‘worst’ or ‘most radical’. For instance some judge all Christians via “Westboro Baptist Church”. A truly hateful group of people, who say they are followers of Christ, yet spew hatred and extreme prejudices against others, especially homosexuals, other Christians who don’t agree with them and well just about everyone. With Scriptures to ‘prove’ their point, which should give us all pause when trying to line up scriptures to back up our stance.

People should not be identified by their sexuality, but by their humanity. I know homosexual couples, they are law abiding citizens, some of them are deeply spiritual and Christian, and over all good people. I do think using the term ‘marriage’, unfortunate, yet it is here now and we need to continue to be a leaven in our society and treat each person with love and respect. Perhaps those on the fringe of any group are there because society has discounted them over a long period of time. They could be the expression of collective anger. In the not so distant past homosexuals where treated unjustly and often beaten by the police without any recourse open to them for justice, I doubt many Christians where upset by that and have applauded it. Also in our families and among our friends, there are people with same sex attraction; they may just be to frighten to be open about it. This condition is not chosen, it something people are born with, genetic, and not just something caused by nurturing, though in some cases it may. Still it is imposed, not chosen. –Br, MD

[Susanc241]

I too think the use of 'marriage' for the union of homosexual couples unfortunate. Here in the UK they had 'civil partnerships' and one of the two gays in my extended family that I have talked to thinks this was more than enough and that pushing for 'marriage' did his kind no favours at all. I couldn't care less what people do in their private lives as long as no-one is forced to do/be what they don't want to do/be, nor that they scare the horses. We all have to play with the hand of cards we are dealt and everyone should exhibit tolerance and understanding (even where you really don't understand at all). We all only get one shot at this life, so let's try to make it as pleasant a time for everyone as possible.

[XenoFish]

When you can see the world as the blind, hear it as the deaf, and speak of it as the mute. You shall know that there is no real difference among all of us.

[LostSouls7]

Some wise words. May the power of magic be with you