The essence of immorality is the tendency
to make an exception of myself.
Jane Addams, Nobel Peace Prize-winning Reformer,
social
worker, and peace activist;
she was born
on this date, 1860
Jesus had a wonderful parable
about that! The one about the two men praying … one tells God the truth about
himself, the other tells God how wonderful and pious he is and proudly says
he’s “thankful I’m not like that other guy”.
Now, this is the big problem in American politics today
… and, in this upcoming election, it’s starkly seen in difference in the
rhetoric and the policies of the two parties. Simply put, as I see it, the
Republicans see themselves as the “exception” that Jane Addams points to. They
seem to see the very rich and the powerful and the however-privileged as “not
like the others”. Elizabeth Warren and Bill Clinton deftly pointed this out
last night in their speeches at the Democratic Convention. Beautifully and
clearly, I thought. (I couldn’t believe I was watching the Convention … I never
watch such political things! But as soon as I started, I was hooked.) Anyway,
enough said; it’s for you to think about.
Once we make an exception of
ourselves, the Pandora’s box of Immorality is set free. “We” and “Them” are set
up … the bottom line of which is, only some
are deserving of respect and compassion and acceptance. The “exceptions” get to
judge. An example: the politicians have
their own health insurance … because they deserve it … and to hell with everyone
else. But Bill and Elizabeth are right, theologically and scientifically: we are
all a part of the whole, and if one is hurt, we eventually are all hurt.
Now: will the Democrats change much if in power?
We can hope … but we see all can see how seductive it is, and how hard it is to
live up to one’s principles.
My principle core of morality is
the Gospel. I heard it reflected last night. So I say:
Preach it Baby! And live it!
Brian+
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