Want my unbiased opinion? Well, most often I don't have one. As much as one might try to be objective there are so many Influencing factors that effect every decision. Biases can be harmful but they may also be helpful.There are some things I like better than others. There are positions that resonate with the way I think and view life.
Before we get too far along, I need to be clear that I am referring to preference rather than prejudice. Opinion rather than undeniable truth. I suspect that there is a fine line of difference and it is often difficult to discern.
Just because I lean one way does not mean that anyone who leans the opposite direction is wrong.
It is alright if you disagree with me but I hope you will not be belligerent about it. I don’t mind if you conclude that I am not “well informed” but please don’t write me off. Cut me some slack even as you make a good case that the opposite of my opinions is valid.
I hope that on all issues, great and small, we will be tolerant and accepting. Even when we believe another person is wrong, we need to acknowledge them as persons of worth and dignity. There is a real need for civility as we interact with persons with different attitudes and perspectives.
It has been said that "love makes the world go around." If that is true, it is because love allows for different positions and opinions. It is alright to disagree and we do not have to demonize persons who do not share our opinion.
There are times when I wish that more folks would think like I do. Occasionally I wonder if it would be better if The United Methodist Church was more homogenous. Perhaps we should be more narrow in our approach to ministry and our response to current social realities. But when I think more clearly I am grateful that the doors are open as wide as they are or there might not be a place for me.
--excerpt from an email by Jamie Jenkins, NGA Ann Conf, jjenkins@ngumc.org
God Is Still In Control!
Miss Lladale Carey
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