Hank, Merle and Waylon. West Asheville.

Friday, June 2, 2017

Fanatics Everywhere

One of the pleasures and gifts I have received from my travels, especially those early years (1994 for one) when I was a devout Christian wandering "the heathen lands," is that I have also learned a lot about myself - my faith, my ignorance, my naivete, etc..  And that's a big ET CETERA.  And some of these relationships I established are still intact.  On occasion, when there's some big news or political activity of note, we will email each another, just for a fresh perspective.  A few years ago I got an email from an Uzbek friend living in the UK, and he asked about the quotes below and what I thought about the person who made them, and what kind of following she could have. Maybe I still am naive, but I hope that people's good hearts win out in the end.  His words are in blue.  Mine black.

"We should invade their countries, kill their leaders and convert them to Christianity."
— Ann Coulter, author

"[Since 9/11] I am often asked if I still think we should invade their countries, kill their leaders, and convert them to Christianity.  The answer is: Now more than ever!"
— Ann Coulter, author


She's fairly marginalized in the US , but I do see her on TV from time-to-time and her books often sell well.  Still, the bulk of Americans would find these comments bizarre and outlandish, in my opinion.

I guess she does not understand the essence of Christianity. What a shame!

Agree.  It certainly isn't the loving your neighbor and forgiving part that I was taught to believe. 

Looking back, I had some very good experiences with country folk in Uzbekistan, who surely were Muslims.  I always try to remind people in the US of the good ways of many Muslims - the majority I bet.  Likewise, I would love for Muslim fanatics to meet some ordinary, good-hearted Christians who really do try living out the best of their faith as well. 

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