DEAR EDITOR:
The Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary definition of courage is:
Implies firmness of mind and will in the face of danger or extreme
difficulty.
DEAR EDITOR:
The Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary definition of courage is: Implies firmness of mind and will in the face of danger or extreme difficulty.
The American Heritage Dictionary defines courage this way: The state or quality of mind or spirit that enables one to face danger with self-possession, confidence, and resolution; bravery.
I was wondering if Dennis Taylor checked a dictionary when he wrote the column, “Appropriate time to apply the definition of courage.” Concerning our fallen soldiers and all soldiers that choose to serve our country, I agree that the definition of courage applies. We should all be grateful for their service and sacrifice, some sacrificing all, whether it was in the Vietnam War, World War II, Grenada or Iraq. They did not start the wars but they answered the call. They do not write policy or make rules but they were obedient to those who do.
In my view, the definition does not apply to pastors that are not speaking out against same-sex marriages. How courageous is it to follow the way of the liberal media, liberal judges and our current world view. There is no danger in that. Where is the risk? You might alienate those who believe the opposite but for the most part you become socially acceptable by today’s standards. Heck, you even get your name in the paper as being one of the good guys.
Now, contrary to what Dennis Taylor has written, it takes real courage to say you are going to take a stand against same-sex marriage and to actually state that you plan to act against the elected officials who do not support your convictions regarding this issue. This is a dangerous path. Popular culture and the media now view you as spreading a “doctrine of hate” which is exactly opposite to what I have heard preached when I go to church. Heck, you even get your church name in the paper as being the bad guys.
Not too many years ago very few people would have imagined that this would be an issue. I don’t think the pastors, churches and individuals that oppose same-sex marriage asked to be in the position they are in. They did not start the battle but they are answering a call. They do not make the rules but they endeavor to be obedient to the One who does.
This is not even a “hate” issue as Dennis Taylor is trying to make it. It’s an issue of what is right and what is wrong. God does not hate homosexuals. On the contrary God loves everyone. I used to rationalize a lot of my behavior because that behavior was what I wanted to do. I had to find out the hard way that a lot of what I believed to be OK, or thought in my head, “there is no harm in doing that,” was actually destructive for me and those around me.
I’ve learned that God is not a cosmic killjoy but he actually cares about us and knows what is best for us. I think a majority of America believes this. It is unfortunate that the liberal media and liberal judges do not.
Steve Conroy, Gilroy
Submitted Thursday, June 3 to ed****@************ch.com
