Can we be an affiming, positive presence right here?

[RevCheesehead]

I have encountered several people who are dismayed. Many are going through very difficult personal situations. Many more are frustrated that our corporate media keeps us in the dark, refusing to report stories which are opposed to the blivet's mandate. Many have openly expressed their anger and outright hostility at a religion which has harmed them, personally, or perpetuated hatred in the name of Christ.

The death of John Paul II has left some of us wondering if anyone is left in this world who will be a moral leader. Who will fill the void, and speak out against the atrocities? Who will hold our leaders accountable?

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life.... And because I believe, I have faith that God will lead the Church in making crucial decisions which will affect us all.

Yet I am troubled by all the anger I encounter, the vicious and downright mean comments that are made to hurt others. How can we "raise the standard" in our discussions among ourselves? How do we promote civility and respect of others' opinions, even when we strongly disagree?

I think that the answer is that "it begins with me." If you see me treating others inappropriately, please gently correct me (or PM me).

[murielm99]

1. We seem to be reflecting the polarization we see in

the rest of our society.

Saying that Democrats need to grow a spine does not mean sniping at each other.

Ghandi and Martin Luther King Jr. made their points without viciousness. I think there are some people within our party who are showing that that is still possible.

Although I do not always agree with him, Reid is a good example. He is a strong Christian, too. Conyers, Jesse Jackson, and his son also qualify in my estimation. So does Barbara Boxer. They know how to fight and still behave like ladies and gentlemen.

They know, too, that that compromise and waiting things out can help reach goals.

Who else is there in public life that stands up for our principles without resorting to viciousness? Can anyone think of other examples? I agree with you that we need to behave better.

[RevCheesehead]

2. Jimmy Carter.

Even in being snubbed by the white house (papal funeral), he was the epitome of graciousness. :thumbsup:

Jim Wallis. As a liberal Christian, he is speaking out and getting more air-time, to help promote our values against the right-wing propaganda/fundamentalist regime.

Russ Feingold (my senator). He is a man of integrity, who stands up for what he believes is right, regardless of the cost.

[murielm99]

3. How could I have forgotten Jimmy?

He is one of the best Christian role models around.

[Maat]

4. He sure is.

I'm not technically a Christian (Relgious Scientist; Jesus = Master Enlightened One, Master Teacher), but I support progressive Christians to the maximum. We study the wisdom of Jesus, and I appreciate it.

What I respect about Pres. Carter is that he not only talks the talk, but he walks the walk. I see him at meetings where peace plans are worked out, and I see him helping to build houses for the poor.

I was disappointed that he wasn't there representing us at the Vatican last Friday. He and Roselyn would have been very gracious, and they would have behaved with dignity (unlike someone who will remain unmentioned).

[Kat45]

6. Wes Clark.

He stands up for our principles and is always quite gentlemanly, even when strongly disagreeing with someone's points.

[supernova]

5. The Battle for God

Our adult sunday school is starting a study of Karen Armstrong's book, either today or next Sunday, I'm not sure which.

But it will be a great chance to talk about the hurtfulness that people use to talk about God.

As for here at DU, about the only thing you can do, and it is difficult sometimes, is model the behavior that you want to see in others. Some people will get it; some won't.