In an era where words like “diversity” and “bipartisanship” are so en vogue, why is there such as uproar over President-elect Obama’s choice of Rick Warren to give the invocation at the inaugural ceremony on January 20th?
Obama’s progressive supporters feel betrayed by his choosing a Prop 8 supporting, right wing pastor who puts gay marriage on the same plain as incest and pedophilia (more on that later). Rick Warren’s supporters are offended that he would accept an invitation from a pro choice, gay rights supporting, stem-cell research supporting president-elect.
What? After 8 years of a Bush presidency that was as polarized as can be, Americans should be hungry for leaders who embrace diversity, who realize that common ground can be found with those of differing opinions, even when those opinions are fundamentally different.
But wait. It’s just a prayer. Warren isn’t joining Obama’s administration. Obama isn’t becoming a member of Warren’s church. Why the controversy?
People are so used to choosing sides. Right or left. Catholic or protestant. Red Sox or Yankees. There is no middle ground. So when people see a little overlap, a little middle ground, they can’t handle it. “That’s not how it’s supposed to be.” And because of this polarization, the other side gets demonized. They are seen as being the “other”, not simply as people with differing views.
Rick Warren, for instance, has been “demonized” for equating gay marriage with incest and pedophilia based on the interview shown above. His comments, no doubt, were offensive and unfortunate, but anyone who actually saw the interview, and listened with an open mind, saw that Warren was simply and sincerely stating his beliefs. Is it anyone’s business if a same-sex couple wants to get married? The opinion of this blogger is absolutely not. But Rick Warren’s opinion differs and his opinion should be listened to and treated with equal respect.
Obama’s invitation to Warren isn’t an acceptance of his beliefs. Obama isn’t surrendering to the dark side. The same is true for Warren. These two men see the importance of middle ground. Two people with differing beliefs coming together for a common cause. It’s not about politics. It’s not about religion.
To Rick Warren: hat’s off to you.
To Obama: much respect.
To the polarized haters: can’t we just get along?
chess photo courtesy of Shyald
{ 1 trackback }
{ 1 comment }
This prayer was wonderful.
Praise God for your faithfulness to God.
Linda Nettles
Jacksonville, Fl.
Comments on this entry are closed.