Just curious, do I need to be a Democrat or Obama supporter to make donations to or support CDM? What does any of this have to do with poverty issues? Do you care that you are turning off 50% of your possible contributors when you turn your usual great blog into an Obama pep rally? and when anyone dares to oppose the obama lovefest, you and your other followers attack them or outright dismiss their point of views. i don't get it. I can't stand Obama... does that make me a racist or a bad person or unacceptable to CDM? Your's Truly, A CDM Supporter
Thanks for your comment, Anon 7:26AM. I think you misunderstand my reasons for pointing you toward Gerald Britt's blog. His point was simply that the Obamas both had played by all of the rules that we have long encouraged everyone to play by, especially African Americans and other minorities. It was not intended as an endorsement, just a reflection on a very important event in the history of this nation and its communities. No one is accusing anyone of being a racist, and certainly, no one is saying that you or anyone else is a bad person. I regret that you were offended by my post and Gerald's words. It is just that some of the criticism that is leveled against the Obamas seems to fly in the face of cenventional American wisdom in terms of the message we normally convey to minorities and inner city communities. It is not a matter of partisan politics. I would have posted as I did had the Obamas been Republican. It is likely hard for many people to understand the inspiration and encouragement that the Obamas are bringing to the people we engage day-by-day. Not from a political point of view, but from a human accomplishment, "anything is possible" point of view. Does that make sense? Do you understand?
Larry said: "I would have posted as I did had the Obamas been Republican." Really? Have you posted similarly about black conservatives? Clarence Thomas for one has a much more compelling and inspiring personal story.
c hand, you and I both know that because of the office being considered, the Obama situation is peerless. And, yes, if the Republican nominee were African American, I would have directed my readers to a post like the one Gerlad wrote.
I am quiet impressed with Senator Obama's family, but to me the sad thing is that it is put out there like an anomaly. To me that is a sad commentary on the state of the black family in America. He has done well and I truly believe that he and his wife are in love and dedicated to each other and you could not find more precious well raised children if you looked anywhere, but when I read Gerald's well written post it just hit me that he was bragging on a life style that was just as obvious in the Bush families. The Obamas are doing what responsible people are suppose to be doing. I also tend to agree with anon 1. I think most conservative supporters feel deep down from the regular reading of your blog that your political bent is strongly to the left, but having said that I want you to know that you are the most respectful blogger towards opposing views that I have read. You are also a gifted writer, a wordsmith if I may say. Even if I disagree with what you say I can always rest assured will be well written. You are also on my top ten list of people I would like to have a cup of coffee with before I die.
RC, name the time and the place, and if possible, I'll be there to buy you that cup of coffee.
I understand the point you are making, but I don't think that was exactly Gerald's point. The African American family is in trouble and he would admit that. The reasons likely will lead us into a debate, which is fine. For example, 95% of the students in our ISD here in Dallas qualify for the free and reduced lunch program. Gerald's point seems to be here is a family that did everything right, at least give them a look and do as you have done, acknowledge their achievement.
c hand, I honestly believe you missed my point. I know there is a long list of distinguished black Republican and conservative leaders, it is just that none of them are running for President at this time. That was my point.
Had Colin Powell, J. C. Watts or Condoleezza Rice been on the Republican ticket, I would have reacted to them in much the same way that I did here. Just as I would here and now in commending Gov. Sarah Palin and her party for taking the historic step taken in nominating her.
It is important that you see my emphasis was on the highest office in the land in this post and not just the rise of African American leaders.
I jotted down the names of individuals you referenced during a 12 week period in 2007 and did not find any conservatives among them. Perhaps I missed them. Here is what I found.
Larry - Thanks for going where you go and saying what you say. Keep going. Those of us with no agenda other than having our hearts and minds opened and stretched actually appreciate you and CDM.
I think the real issue here is convergence. Larry may cite more Democrats than Republicans for ideas he thinks are useful to CDM's work of pverty relief. But maybe that's just a sad commentary on the Republican party of 2008 - not many are paying attention to the issue of poverty. And I say this as a (moderate) Republican myself.
Thanks for the comments. It is true, I am drawn to the light of those committed to ending poverty in our nation and around the world. Where they are party wise is not much of a concern to me. When U. S. Congressman Steve Bartlett was in the House of Representatives, he and I struck up a fast friendship around issues such as those we speak to here. He was a solid Republican, but that didn't matter. It's about the people and their pain. I have enjoyed many such relationships founded on respect and common mission.
It's just a fact -- as a rule, democrats tend to HELP people more than republicans. Republicans are of the mindset that folks could do better if they only applied themselves and it's their fault they don't have health insurance or a roof over their head.
GWB once told folks he was the "compassionate conservative." Something is wrong when you have to tell folks you're compassionate.
Once we get into the politics I'm saddened. I find we weaken if not destroy the synergy of our cooperative mission. From scriptures to psychologists it is clear we each have huge blind spots, preconceptions, which can lead to fracturing in relationships. Each of us tends to feel more than a little self-righteous. Struggling to have a servant's heart is the only way that works for me in my facilitating our coalition of churches (mostly African-American)in our prison ministry. That and appreciating we are strengthened only through the wisdom and gifts on our intimate fellowship.None of us individually have but a small part of the answers. For me the bible, prayer, and relationships serve the cause best. (ziering@pacbell.net)
Belinda, point in reference. A dig at GWB for stating he was a "Compassionate Christian", testifies to the divisiveness of political correctness. It happens that a Compassionate (Christian)Church is a title for one that has a biblical world view - the inerrancy of scripture. Rather than the President complimenting himself, his remark was to reflect his faith.
16 comments:
Just curious, do I need to be a Democrat or Obama supporter to make donations to or support CDM? What does any of this have to do with poverty issues? Do you care that you are turning off 50% of your possible contributors when you turn your usual great blog into an Obama pep rally? and when anyone dares to oppose the obama lovefest, you and your other followers attack them or outright dismiss their point of views. i don't get it. I can't stand Obama... does that make me a racist or a bad person or unacceptable to CDM?
Your's Truly,
A CDM Supporter
Thanks for your comment, Anon 7:26AM. I think you misunderstand my reasons for pointing you toward Gerald Britt's blog. His point was simply that the Obamas both had played by all of the rules that we have long encouraged everyone to play by, especially African Americans and other minorities. It was not intended as an endorsement, just a reflection on a very important event in the history of this nation and its communities. No one is accusing anyone of being a racist, and certainly, no one is saying that you or anyone else is a bad person. I regret that you were offended by my post and Gerald's words. It is just that some of the criticism that is leveled against the Obamas seems to fly in the face of cenventional American wisdom in terms of the message we normally convey to minorities and inner city communities. It is not a matter of partisan politics. I would have posted as I did had the Obamas been Republican. It is likely hard for many people to understand the inspiration and encouragement that the Obamas are bringing to the people we engage day-by-day. Not from a political point of view, but from a human accomplishment, "anything is possible" point of view. Does that make sense? Do you understand?
One more thing: call me on Tuesday and let's talk about this. I'd be happy to visit about your point of view. We appreciate your support.
Larry said: "I would have posted as I did had the Obamas been Republican." Really?
Have you posted similarly about black conservatives? Clarence Thomas for one has a much more compelling and inspiring personal story.
c hand, you and I both know that because of the office being considered, the Obama situation is peerless. And, yes, if the Republican nominee were African American, I would have directed my readers to a post like the one Gerlad wrote.
Larry, You don't have to "if" this one. I can get you a list of worthy conservative people of color. Why not spread the love?
Larry,
I am quiet impressed with Senator Obama's family, but to me the sad thing is that it is put out there like an anomaly. To me that is a sad commentary on the state of the black family in America. He has done well and I truly believe that he and his wife are in love and dedicated to each other and you could not find more precious well raised children if you looked anywhere, but when I read Gerald's well written post it just hit me that he was bragging on a life style that was just as obvious in the Bush families. The Obamas are doing what responsible people are suppose to be doing. I also tend to agree with anon 1. I think most conservative supporters feel deep down from the regular reading of your blog that your political bent is strongly to the left, but having said that I want you to know that you are the most respectful blogger towards opposing views that I have read. You are also a gifted writer, a wordsmith if I may say. Even if I disagree with what you say I can always rest assured will be well written. You are also on my top ten list of people I would like to have a cup of coffee with before I die.
RC
RC, name the time and the place, and if possible, I'll be there to buy you that cup of coffee.
I understand the point you are making, but I don't think that was exactly Gerald's point. The African American family is in trouble and he would admit that. The reasons likely will lead us into a debate, which is fine. For example, 95% of the students in our ISD here in Dallas qualify for the free and reduced lunch program. Gerald's point seems to be here is a family that did everything right, at least give them a look and do as you have done, acknowledge their achievement.
c hand, I honestly believe you missed my point. I know there is a long list of distinguished black Republican and conservative leaders, it is just that none of them are running for President at this time. That was my point.
Had Colin Powell, J. C. Watts or Condoleezza Rice been on the Republican ticket, I would have reacted to them in much the same way that I did here. Just as I would here and now in commending Gov. Sarah Palin and her party for taking the historic step taken in nominating her.
It is important that you see my emphasis was on the highest office in the land in this post and not just the rise of African American leaders.
I jotted down the names of individuals you referenced during a 12 week period in 2007 and did not find any conservatives among them. Perhaps I missed them. Here is what I found.
Tom Harkin- left-wing Democrat
Terry Eagleton--rooted in Marxist tradition
Thomas Menton--catholic mystic
John Mellencamp-- liberal Democrat
David Blood--Wacko environmentalist
James Cone--black liberation theology
Kathy Kelly--peace activist
Howard Zinn--social activist
Studs Terkel--left-wing political activist
Bill Moyers--left-wing journalist
Glad you are reading Larry so closely, Chris. Hope it is helping you open your mind and heart a bit!
Larry - Thanks for going where you go and saying what you say. Keep going. Those of us with no agenda other than having our hearts and minds opened and stretched actually appreciate you and CDM.
CL
I think the real issue here is convergence. Larry may cite more Democrats than Republicans for ideas he thinks are useful to CDM's work of pverty relief. But maybe that's just a sad commentary on the Republican party of 2008 - not many are paying attention to the issue of poverty. And I say this as a (moderate) Republican myself.
Thanks for the comments. It is true, I am drawn to the light of those committed to ending poverty in our nation and around the world. Where they are party wise is not much of a concern to me. When U. S. Congressman Steve Bartlett was in the House of Representatives, he and I struck up a fast friendship around issues such as those we speak to here. He was a solid Republican, but that didn't matter. It's about the people and their pain. I have enjoyed many such relationships founded on respect and common mission.
It's just a fact -- as a rule, democrats tend to HELP people more than republicans. Republicans are of the mindset that folks could do better if they only applied themselves and it's their fault they don't have health insurance or a roof over their head.
GWB once told folks he was the "compassionate conservative." Something is wrong when you have to tell folks you're compassionate.
Once we get into the politics I'm saddened. I find we weaken if not destroy the synergy of our cooperative mission. From scriptures to psychologists it is clear we each have huge blind spots, preconceptions, which can lead to fracturing in relationships. Each of us tends to feel more than a little self-righteous. Struggling to have a servant's heart is the only way that works for me in my facilitating our coalition of churches (mostly African-American)in our prison ministry. That and appreciating we are strengthened only through the wisdom and gifts on our intimate fellowship.None of us individually have but a small part of the answers. For me the bible, prayer, and relationships serve the cause best. (ziering@pacbell.net)
Belinda, point in reference. A dig at GWB for stating he was a "Compassionate Christian", testifies to the divisiveness of political correctness. It happens that a Compassionate (Christian)Church is a title for one that has a biblical world view - the inerrancy of scripture. Rather than the President complimenting himself, his remark was to reflect his faith.
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