Double Speak

I was reading this article on Bill Clinton making a statement about the current campaign for the Democratic Party’s nomination, and how his statement was possibly misinterpreted. Is it just me, or are you tired of politicians also? I would have a lot more respect and support for one of these guys (or gals) if when they said something; they stood behind their remarks. Doesn’t clarifying or explaining away your comments water down your character? If you are not going to show conviction, how do you expect others to stand behind you and support you?

This goes on in both major political parties of course. But some issues are baffling to me why they are even issues at all. Why would you take offense or question a person’s judgment if they base important decisions on life lessons, personal history and faith? I remember George Bush being roasted over a pit for claiming that he would turn to his faith to help make decisions that were difficult. That works for me way better than a Magic 8 Ball, in every scenario.

Check that out though, in many degrees we want to keep faith out of certain people’s hands and make it an issue – while on the other hand we want to question the morality of others’ faiths or beliefs. Look at the Barrack Obama “is he a Muslim or isn’t he” debate. It’s such a crucial thing to have the next President be a Christian, right? It seems to be that anyone NOT a Christian would ever be elected. Of course it is faux pas to even suggest it out loud though, in any context that might turn off your non-Christian constituents, or is it?

And if it is so wrong to have religion mixing with politics, why are so many churches the ground zero for public debate and shows of support? Why are there Black Churches and White Churches? I go to church. Its not a “white church”, its just a good ol’ community church that shepherds its parishioners and teaches from the bible. I have never been to a church that was “black”, and quite frankly can’t imagine not being welcomed to a church for being the wrong color.

But back to my original thought about standing behind your words… Take a position and stick with it. Don’t flip sides depending on which crowd you are talking to, which part of the country you are in, or if you made an unpopular choice. People make choices every day and have to face the consequences of those decisions. If I could explain away all my misgivings and mistakes then I’d be sitting pretty, with a fist full of winning lottery tickets!

Nothing wrong with saying you are sorry for offending people for your statements or opinions. I offend people all the time (I bet) and am sorry for hurting those peoples’ feelings – but my opinions are my own and I stand behind them.

My name is Douglas, and I approve this message.

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