[MENTION=42946]Howey[/MENTION]
All forms of bigotry, racism, "phobias about race, homosexuality, etc."
can be cured by FORGIVENESS. This heals the wounds causing pain to be projected.
Everyone has been affected, directly or indirectly, and we all deserve support to be heard and to heal.
Forgiveness cannot be forced on people, but it is
INSPIRED BY EXAMPLE --
See Guidelines from the Center for the Healing of Racism:
http://www.houstonprogressive.org
First Rule is NOT calling ANYONE a "racist, bigot, sexist, homophobe, etc."
That makes the problems worse, everyone knows this, but people still do it.
It takes a MUTUAL commitment to change relationships and drop the verbal warfare.
You can't put out a fire by pouring gasoline on it.
Howey: you seem sincere in your passion and commitment to address injustices. That is courageous and I applaud you!
But until you heal your own pain, it will project onto your words and perceptions of others, and just set off more flame wars.
We don't need to burn down our own houses.
We need to put out these fires, and start cleaning up and rebuilding what's been destroyed by words of war.
On solid foundations built on trust, good faith relations and good will can be restored.
This is how racial and political divisions can be overcome.
I support you in your causes, it's clear you have heart and courage in what matters most to you.
But I cannot help you push more negativity when the opposite is needed here, more love, less fear.
We need more compassion, acceptance and healing.
The issues of injustice can be resolved in that spirit of rising above that which we oppose.
We need everyone's contributions and best efforts to make that happen. There is no room to kick anyone out when all hands are needed on board to save the ship from sinking. There is no time for the crew to be fighting and blaming with this much work to be done!
Take care, and I hope to support you in positive constructive endeavors that encourage teamwork to overcome fear that is causing racial, political and religious divisions.
King Jr. Martin Luther quote-Men often hate each other because they fear each other; they fear each...
Dr. King said:
Men often hate each other because they fear each other; they fear each other because they don't know each other; they don't know each other because they can not communicate; they can not communicate because they are separated.
Howey as long as you mentally "separate" yourself from the people you blame,
this perpetuates the fear that fuels racism and bigotry of all kinds, especially political division that profits off this like a "sport." The media makes money off the conflict, while the people continue to suffer. If you enjoy being "pimped politically" keep playing this game. But all the politicians egging us on will continue to benefit at the public's expense.
What exactly is the definition of homophobic? Is seems a word used to the gay community anytime you do not buy 100% into the lifestyle.
I believe homosexuality is wrong based on my religious beliefs. I also do not relate to homosexuality and am a little disgusted by it. I do not like the in your face attitude that some homosexuals have. I do not want homosexual sex education taught to my children as school. Other than that I do not care.
Does this make me homophobic?
Since I don't know you, I'll just say I don't know. Sounds like you could use some education, though.
http://www.usmessageboard.com/health-and-lifestyle/360303-can-homophobia-be-cured.html