Sunday, January 16, 2011

President as Pastor. . .thanks be to God!

7 comments:

rcorum said...

He delivered a good speech, but your level of adoration is beyond my ability to understand. He is a politician, not a pastor. Should be be more civil? Of course, and I hope we will. I hope our President will begin to show more respect to our former President, George Bush. To me the most important lesson to learn from this tragedy is that we need to do something to identify people who are mentally ill and get them help and keep guns out of their hands. I respect the office of the President, but non and I mean none need to be called "pastors." I don't put people on pedestals certainly not politicians.

Larry James said...

rc, you objections on this one befuddle me. The image of "pastor" is what I witnessed in the President's demeanor, words and tone. He came to comfort, encourage and share in the grief of the city and the families affected by this tragic loss. He was performing a spiritual function for the nation. That's all I meant. You accuse me of being partisan often. I can deal with that. But, clearly you share my disease. Best to you in the New Year!

rcorum said...

I stand by what I said. Let me be clear. I do not hate President Obama, but I detect a level of adoration from you to him that I do not share. I am sorry that my reactions befuddle you, but it is my understanding that you seek reaction. I gave it as honestly as I could. I just feel uncomfortable with the religious metaphors when used to describe politicians. If you every want me to stop posting I will gladly respect your wishes. I do hope you also have a wonderful New Year, and I am sure I do share your disease, but I try.

Larry James said...

Thanks for the response, rc. It is never about not posting here just because we disagree. No reason that we should. I was simply expressing my point of view about the good work Mr Obama did last week in his visit to Arizona. Almost everyone, including his harshest critics, seemed to regard his trip as helpful in the healing process and it was full of religion! I think that is one reason I used the pastor metaphor. He is a deeply spiritual person, as was evident in his reactions and words during the event. I suppose I could have used a family metaphor--he spoke as a grieving father also.

rcorum said...

Larry, perhaps I overreacted, and that is more a commentary on my own personal cynicism when it comes to American politics. I know you have always welcomed my comments and I appreciate your openness, but I also realize that anyone can outstay their welcome anywhere. If that ever happens just let me know. On to other things. Time to watch Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech. Now that is a speech for which I have found no equal from men during my lifetime.

Chris said...

Civility in the Obama administration means the opposition shut up.

The call for civility in the administration is directly tied to how they are doing in the polls. If the people are against their agenda they call for civility.

There is nothing spiritual about Obama, at least in the God we serve, he is a political opportunist.

Chris said...

I still remember Mr. Civility Obama laughing when Wanda Sykes called for the death of Rush Limbaugh. The left does things of this nature all the time and are never called on it. Sarah Palin has been getting death threats more and more. You will not find this sort of conduct from the right.