We have more than our share of problems in Canada, and our parliamentary system can get paralysed or actually get something done.
Maybe it’s why Ottawa bashing is a national sport.;^)

Thanks again, Bene, for facilitating, in no small way, all of our attempts to love our neighbors, regardless of their politics or theology.

They hurt. The labels hurt. I only know I’ve wounded when someone slaps them on me.:^(

I don’t think we are going to have mutual respect and a real Christian community on a global level, it’s just idealism and dreams from people such as myself at BDBO.
We god-bloggers are tribal. I’m stunned at how quickly aggregators are inadvertantly fostering that tribalism although that not is the intent.

(been verbally beatup my self lately - this may not be helpful)

I’m sorry too Jared. I can only address my own intent.
I will fail, and maybe all I can be glad for is that people can come over to BDBO, say ouch, be heard and walk away knowing they are not condemned for articulately their pain.

If it helps Canadians have a rich history of bashing our government. And when we speak to other governments it is to policy of an administration, not the people of the country.

I appreciate the courage of your venting. Thank you.

I sincerely apologize for those in my “camp” who are idiots and do not represent evangelicalism or conservatism or American Christianity well. I am embarrassed about them. But I assumed that on sites like this, some charity might be found. We’re not all like that, but I have to constantly feel like I am. And from the same folks who are constantly complaining that folks like me are intolerant toward folks like them.

Calling Republicans/evangelicals/conservatives or whatever Them people are criticizing “the Taliban” (or Nazis or fascists or zombies, as I’ve seen on other sites) does not contribute to meaningful and constructive dialogue. How do “you” expect “us” to respect and hear “you” when “you” are busy belittling and stereotyping “us”?

(”You” is in quotes, because I don’t mean you, Bene.)

Thanks for allowing this ignorant red-stater room to vent. I am all for communication and mutual respect and a real Christian community on a global level (the Web is a great means to that, isn’t it?), but it will require humility and respect and open ears on both sides.

I’m sure anyone here would be willing to discuss your concerns with you. You are very welcome to use this comment section.

I mean, seriously — “the Taliban”?

If it’s really honest, understanding dialogue that’s wanted, we could do without much of the self-righteousness and passive-aggressive condescension aimed at we ignorant “red staters.”

Just trying to say that marginalization and stereotyping cuts both ways.

I mentioned that my brother received a copy of the book from fellow marines when he got out a few months ago. He’s never been heavy into the faith, yet he showed me this book and seemed really excited about it.

Like Domke mentions at the end of his piece, aparently we now have our own version of the taliban.

*though I really see myself self as part of the greater whole of the world faith community) may I apologize for the flaming you have mentioned.*

Thank you.
It is so silly seeing someone representing a pov of a US political party out on blogs in the Philippines, Maylasia, etc., putting fellow believers into little boxes and being so strident and naive about it.
Mostly sad though.
And seeing god-bloggers pile into US posts that criticise a well known religious leader with anger and in your face attitude is really sad.
It’s like we speak english, but don’t.
At least with this medium we have a more open opportunity (as opposed to threads etc)to listen and to talk, and I wouldn’t trade that off.
Again thanks Rich, your civility matters and makes a difference. Blog on!

I personally try to stay out of political issues just b/c they are such controversial issues and tend to lead toward division amongst fellow Believers.