While I was at college, it was required that you take a class about changing your world view. Basically, it was a class where you were given a topic, and then it was open for discussion to the whole class. You discussed your morals, opinions, and beliefs in a non-judgmental environment. It was there to teach us that everyone comes from different backgrounds. Just because you are a pastor's kid, doesn't mean that all pastor's kids believe and think the same way you do. What you find offensive may be completely normal for others. It was actually my favorite class there. The work load was a bit much, but it was a class that graded me based on my opinion. I loved it! I understand that everyone has different opinions, beliefs, convictions, etc., but it's still something I haven't completely accepted. You know what I mean? I take into consideration the way they were raised (provided I know the story), I think about what they've gone through, I observe the way they act, I listen to what they say. That being said, let me share what has most recently caused me to smack my forehead and has bothered me for two months.
We're sitting in church and they showed a video that told the story of an infant that was orphaned during the earthquake in Haiti. He was malnourished and had AIDS. He wasn't expected to survive, but he did. After legal issues with his mother (who eventually found him amid the devastation), the boy was adopted into a loving family. Today, he is completely AIDS-free. This five minute video was one that grabbed your attention. It broke your heart, but made you smile at the happy ending that this innocent child deserved.
Then came the sermon. The pastor was talking about a random act of kindness by a stranger. He was emphasizing the point that despite appearances and such, the heart behind the actions is what matters. As he told the story, he mentioned how the man said it was his "rhymes with 'trucking' Christian duty" It got some chuckles, but not everyone was amused, including the person sitting beside me. "I don't think it was necessary," she said. Sure, he didn't have to say that, but he was emphasizing that though this man was uncensored and rough around the edges, his heart was right when he was helping out strangers.
So, what exactly warranted a facepalm here? They were more upset that he said "rhymes with 'trucking'" than they were about the devastating video we watched. Really?! I just don't get it. I've heard them say the literal "rhymes with 'trucking'", but the face that the pastor said that was just...appalling. Nevermind the heart wrenching images of a child dying and the mothers complete disregard for him. I just don't understand how that works. I mean, I guess I do because God has "programmed" us to have our own "Holy Discontent" (Yes, Dad...I'm referencing it!), but don't judge other people for theirs. I know this is coming across like I am judging, but believe me, I'm not. It just frustrates me that something as stupid as a curse word (even though he never said it!) made someone that upset and the fact that children everywhere are being orphaned isn't as scandalous. BULLSPIT!!! Okay, I'm done, but just know that while I've looked at this situation from different viewpoints, it still ticks me off. Seriously people...get over yourselves.
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