Whatever Happened to Civility?

 

Grace and peace to all who happen by this site and read this article. I realize it may not line up with your views. All I ask is your respect. Please don’t blow up like a volcano after reading it, because a lot of people these days have been losing their tempers, and that’s not pretty. Hot-button political issues have a way of setting off hidden landmines, so please tread carefully as you forge ahead..

Let me start by saying I am glad Obama has an “ex” before his title now. As far as I’m concerned, he never was my president. He didn’t value what I valued and he didn’t speak for me. I absolutely hated the policies he pushed. He was not my president, and you can’t convince me otherwise. Nevertheless, I didn’t protest his inauguration. I didn’t scream, yell or picket because I knew it wouldn’t do much good. Besides, I don’t believe that is God’s way of doing things. But although I didn’t consider  him my president, I still prayed for him.

I am delighted that Trump wants to end Obama’s mandatory health care plan. The reason I hate – yes, hate – the plan is that to me it’s not pro-life and it’s certainly not pro-choice. It is a mandate, and – with all due respect – no one tells me what to do with my body. You cannot force me to go to a doctor, get shots, take prescription drugs, or to sign up for a medical plan I do not want. Yes, I realize there are some people who love that plan, but I do not, so please respect my views. Socialism is a “medicine” I don’t want shoved down my throat.

After all, the last time I checked, this was a free country. Unfortunately, our freedoms have been gradually eroding. Anything we say can be used against us, but that doesn’t mean we should remain silent on important issues. Yes, I know, it’s hard these days because no matter what you say you’re bound to offend someone. Even Jesus offended many people, and (as far as I’m concerned) He was perfect! How then can we – Christian or non-Christian – avoid offending people?

Wouldn’t it just be nice if everybody used more tact?

Speaking of tact – or fact, if you will, Trump was not my first choice for president, but he’s in office now. So, as a Christian I will respect him even when I disagree with his policies. Once again I’m not going to scream, yell or picket. Once again I’m going to pray for him. I’m going to pray for wisdom,  pray for peace, and pray for an end to the riots. Yes, I know. Violent protests have become the latest rage, but I hate violence and looting, breaking windows, and vandalizing stores. It’s illegal and those who do those things should be caught and prosecuted. What they’re doing isn’t right. There, I said it.

Call me crazy, but I hate destruction. I want peace – true peace, and I value human life – no matter the sex, race, age, or religious preference. (I’m sure the thought police will gladly rake me over the coals for failing to add a category to that list)

I mean, whatever happened to prayer? Whatever happened to forgiving those who hurt you? And whoever twisted Philippians 4:19 to read “Man shall supply all your needs, and if he doesn’t, then make him pay!”?

Whatever happened to civility?

Advertisement