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Table of Contents
- What Are Physical Activity and Exercise?
- Benefits of Exercise and Being Physically Active
- How Much and What Type of Physical Activity Do You Need for Health Benefits?
- Tips for Starting a New Physical Activity Program
What Are Physical Activity and Exercise?
Physical activity is any activity that gets your body moving. It includes any activity that is part of your daily life -- from sweeping and cleaning to carrying groceries, gardening, walking, dancing, riding a bicycle, lifting weights at the gym, stocking shelves in a store, or tossing a ball around with friends.
Exercise is a type of physical activity. Exercise is activity that is planned and done on a regular basis (e.g., several times a week) for enjoyment or for improving any aspect of physical fitness -- strength, flexibility, or endurance. There are two main types of physical activity or exercise that the US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recommends for adults: aerobic (cardiovascular or "cardio") and muscle-strengthening (resistance).
Labeling something a physical activity or an exercise is not nearly as important as understanding that the human body was designed to move, and stays healthier when doing physical activity. In other words, being active with your body -- whether it is through small amounts of activity throughout the day or scheduled blocks of time for more strenuous movement -- contributes to a longer, healthier life. Even small changes in your normal life can greatly enhance your activity level and your health: taking the stairs instead of the elevator, carrying instead of wheeling groceries through the store, walking a short distance instead of driving the car.
It is important to know that neither expensive equipment nor difficult techniques are necessary in order for you to be physically active. Aerobic activity can be as simple as walking or cleaning your home with some added pep in your step. If it is unsafe or uncomfortable outside, try walking the stairs in your building or stepping up and down off the first step of a sturdy step-stool.
Muscle-strengthening activities can be simple, too. All it takes is your body and a floor -- for sit-ups, push-ups, or deep-knee bends. If you want to lift weights, try cans of food, jugs of water, or a spare brick. There are many ways to be safely physically active without spending a lot of money or going special places.
Benefits of Exercise and Being Physically Active
There are many ways in which physical activity can improve your health -- it can build and maintain muscle, increase your endurance, and strengthen your heart. In addition, there are many benefits of exercise that are especially helpful for people living with HIV (HIV+). Being physically active and having an exercise routine can:
- Increase muscle mass and prevent muscle loss. It is important to note that women rarely 'bulk up' or build large muscles without serious weight training regimens over long periods of time. Women's bodies have low levels of testosterone -- the hormone that can lead to bulky muscles. Also, many exercises can tone existing muscle without adding bulk.
- Reduce fat around the waist (for more information, see The Well Project's article, Lipodystrophy and Body Changes)
- Lower total cholesterol and LDL (the "bad" cholesterol)
- Raise HDL (the "good" cholesterol)
- Lower triglycerides (a type of fat in the bloodstream)
- Help control blood sugars
- Reduce depression
- Strengthen bones (help prevent bone disease)
- Strengthen the immune system
- Improve sleep quality
- Reduce stress
- Give you more energy throughout the day
There is also a connection between muscle mass and immune function. People who exercise often have higher CD4 counts and fewer side effects from HIV and HIV drugs.
Because powerful new HIV drugs are allowing many people living with HIV to live long, full lives, many of the medical problems facing people living with HIV now have more to do with diseases of aging than HIV-related illnesses. Being physically active is important in preventing aging-related health issues. In addition to the benefits listed above, there is strong evidence to suggest that being physically active lowers your risk for:
- Breast cancer
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Colon cancer
How Much and What Type of Physical Activity Do You Need for Health Benefits?
According to the DHHS, there are two types of physical activity that adults need each week to improve their health -- aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.
Aerobic (Cardiovascular, "Cardio") Activity
Aerobic exercise uses oxygen to burn fat in your body. This is why people who are trying to lose weight often do a lot of aerobic exercise. It is also called cardiovascular exercise, because it raises your heart rate and makes your heart stronger. Besides burning fat, it can increase your endurance so that you do not get tired as quickly when you are active. Aerobic exercises can also lower cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugars.
Aerobic activity is often described in terms of its intensity, or how much effort it takes to do something. During moderate intensity activity, your breathing and heart rate become a bit higher and you will likely be a bit sweaty at the end. Another way to think of moderate intensity activity is any activity during which you can talk but not sing. During vigorous intensity activity, a person cannot say more than a few words without pausing for a breath, since vigorous effort causes your heart rate and breathing to increase substantially.
Examples of moderate aerobic activity include:
- Brisk walking (> three miles per hour, but not race walking)
- General gardening (e.g., weeding, raking leaves)
- Biking (< ten miles per hour)
- Water aerobics
Examples of vigorous aerobic activity include:
- Running, jogging, or race walking
- Swimming laps
- Jumping rope
- Aerobics (including dancing)
- Heavy gardening (e.g., digging holes, hoeing)
- Cross-country skiing
To see substantial health benefits, the DHHS recommends that adults need to do at least:
- 150 minutes (two hours and 30 minutes) of moderate intensity aerobic activity per week OR
- 75 minutes (one hour and 15 minutes) of vigorous intensity aerobic activity per week OR
- an equivalent combination of moderate and vigorous intensity aerobic activities
Aerobic activity should be done for at least ten minutes at a time; however, how you reach your total weekly goal is up to you. For example, if you aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, you could do 30 minutes of activity five days a week or ten-minute periods of activity 15 times throughout your week.
It is important to ask your health care provider if you have any conditions that might make it a bad idea to do aerobic activity -- especially muscle wasting or very little body fat.
Muscle-Strengthening Activities
Muscle-strengthening activities, also called weight-bearing exercise or resistance training, involve moving or resisting the movement of weight with your muscles. For most people, it is normal to have mildly sore or tired muscles after weight or resistance training. This occurs because these activities actually cause very small muscle tears that take two or three days to heal. When the muscles heal, they heal stronger. Therefore it is important for you to wait two to three days after having exercised a part of the body before strengthening it again. This is usually the amount of time it takes for any soreness to go away.
For health benefits, the DHHS recommends that adults do muscle-strengthening activities at least two days a week at moderate to high levels of intensity. These activities should work all the major muscle groups, including the arms, legs, chest, back, and abdomen.
There are several types of muscle-strengthening activities:
- Exercises that use body weight as resistance (push-ups, sit-ups, deep-knee bends)
- Working with resistance bands
- Lifting weights
Muscle-strengthening exercise can be especially helpful for women living with HIV because it can help prevent both muscle and bone loss. If you have had muscle loss, weight-bearing exercise is probably good for you. However, if you have osteoporosis (bone disease), weight-bearing exercise could be dangerous. It is important to ask your health care provider if weight-bearing exercise is good for you.
Other Types of Physical Activity
There are other types of exercise or movement that can improve your health as well. Activities that improve flexibility are important, especially as we age. Things like stretching and yoga can help prevent stiffness and increase the range of motion in joints. Flexibility exercises can help your joints, decrease back pain, increase the flow of blood and nutrients to the tissues, and decrease the likelihood that you will injury yourself doing other forms of exercise.
Yoga is a form of physical activity that combines movement with poses and attention to the breath. It can improve physical qualities such as strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance. It can also reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Many community centers (i.e., YMCA) offer low-cost or free yoga classes.
T'ai chi is another activity that involves movement and attention to the breath. T'ai chi is a low-impact, self-paced system of gentle physical activity and stretching. It can reduce stress, improve balance, and promote calmness.
Tips for Starting a New Physical Activity Program
Speak to your health care provider about what types of physical activity are best for you
Record your weight and the measurements of your arms, legs, chest, stomach, and hips before starting your exercise program. If possible, also check your body composition (percent body fat and muscle) with a Bio-electrical Impedance Analysis (BIA). A BIA can be done by your health care provider or by a fitness trainer at the gym.
Set realistic goals for yourself. Setting and achieving small, measurable goals is a good way to build toward larger goals.
Find an exercise buddy. Becoming physically active with a friend can keep you motivated and less likely to skip workouts.
Start slowly. Do what you can, but do not overdo it. Be patient with your body and your workout.
- When starting aerobic activity, walk or jog at a pace where you can talk but are not out of breath. You may start out walking/jogging for ten minutes and slowly add five minutes to your work out until you are up to 30 minutes or more several times a week.
- When starting muscle-strengthening activities, use slow, controlled movements. Lifting or dropping weights quickly can be dangerous and will not help build muscle.
Stay hydrated! Remember to drink a lot of water before, during, and after your workout.
Eat well! Good nutrition is important to staying healthy and giving you the energy you need to be physically active. Wait two hours after a full meal before exercising.
If you are able, try hiring or talking to a certified fitness trainer to help you develop a good program
Do not exercise when you are feeling sick (feverish, vomiting, dizzy, diarrhea, etc.)
Being physically active requires commitment. It may take a while for you to reach your weekly goals, but do not give up! You and your health -- and those who depend on it -- are worth the time and effort it takes.


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Putin's 'zero-sum' misstep
President Barack Obama can't come close to living up to the fantasies of a showdown stirred by Vladimir Putin's international flip-off.
But for all the calls Thursday to reassess the Russia relationship in the wake of Russia's granting temporary asylum to Edward Snowden, that reassessment is going on almost daily.
Story Continued Below
The United States is constantly evaluating Putin's status and how to approach him, balancing public pronouncements that the Russians immediately reject out of pride with quiet communications that tend to be more effective. On any given day, lower level officials in Moscow and Washington are sharing intelligence and negotiating over collaborative efforts, while others are finding new ways to insult and score points off each other.
( PHOTOS: Pols react to Snowden on the run)
That's why the White House spent weeks immediately undercutting their stern warnings about releasing Snowden by acknowledging that they weren't going to let much happen if Russia didn't pay attention.
Even in the context of a relationship White House press secretary Jay Carney said Thursday was "complicated, and currently faced with a lot of disagreements," though, Snowden's release creates a whole new set of problems.
Obama risks looking weak and not in control. But the problem is, he's not the only one with a problem: Russia experts say Putin looks like he's miscalculated his way into an important blunder for his presidency, that's only boiling the borscht hotter.
In other words, the way things go in contemporary U.S.-Russia relations.
( WATCH: Politicians sound off on Snowden)
"What we're seeing is a Russian president who has increasingly committed to a foreign policy that is based largely on zero-sum calculations: we win, you lose; you lose, we win — which is the exact opposite of the U.S.-Russian relationship in the decade after the Cold War," said Strobe Talbott, a Russia veteran who's now president of the Brookings Institution and chairman of the State Department's Foreign Affairs Policy Board. "Win-win on the Russian side seems to be now an inoperative concept."
Putin didn't invite Snowden to come to Moscow, and once the NSA leaker was there, he seized on the opportunity to score some points, even while expressing ambivalence as only the language of Chekhov allows—the situation was like "shearing a pig: lots of screams, but little wool."
( Also on POLITICO: 10 big asylum cases in the U.S.)
But by granting Snowden asylum, Putin's escalated what started out as, essentially, an international diplomacy-version of a prank into l'affaire Snowden. He wanted to show the U.S. submissive to him in trying to get their criminal back. But what he's probably done is lead Obama to cancel his respect-paying visit to Moscow in September — where Putin is hoping to be the poobah, graciously receiving the American president for all the photos and the symbolism.
Things were going to get worse without Snowden, but he's helped accelerate the process. Instead of tanks rolling out or jets scrambling over the White Sea, though, people who've been involved with Russia-U.S. relations for years see this as another sign of diplomatic relations heading into a frustrated détente, as Putin expands his hold on Russia and Obama—and probably a few presidents to come — calibrate how to react to a man who's as likely to send helicopters to Bashar Assad as steal a Superbowl ring.
This isn't the 1950s or '60s, when despite hundreds of nuclear warheads aimed at each other there were very open lines of communication between Washington and Moscow that kept any of those warheads from ever being used. This isn't the early 1990s, when a young new Russian government felt submissive to the United States. And this isn't 2008, when there were conversations in the Bush White House about possible military intervention in Russia's war with Georgia.
But what's clear every day is that the two countries haven't achieved the rose-strewn "reset" that was promised when Secretary of State Hillary Clinton delivered that oversize prop button to the Russian foreign minister back in 2009.
Putin has shown little interest in that. Even as the United States and Russia sort through their intertwined arrangements over missile defense, terrorist tracking, disarmament, Syria and Iran, he's used his grandstanding against the United States to try to establish himself as a more dominant player on the world stage and in using his international brinksmanship to beat up the opposition.
"The two countries have very different conceptions of their places in the world and what the world should be about, but they are both too important to one or another to be able to walk out of the relationship — and yet the differences are too big for the relationship to be a comfortable one," said Blair Ruble, a Russia expert who's the former director of the Kennan Institute at the Woodrow Wilson International Center.
More than he's done to recalibrate Americans' views on surveillance, Snowden — whom just about everyone in Washington and Moscow knows Putin probably would have locked away and eventually killed — had he been a Russian who'd leaked secret — has become a reason for Republicans and Democrats both in Congress to recall one area of longstanding bipartisan agreement: they all hate Russia.


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Information Session for Family & Friends of Children Newly Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Your child has just been given a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). What does that mean? What should you do next? Are you overwhelmed? This training will give you an understanding of ASDs and discuss next steps for you and your family. Information about available services and supports from the school system and community will be provided. You will learn how to communicate and work together to help your child reach his/her full potential.
Please click here for a downloadable PDF
Moderated by:
Kathy Ralabate Doody, PhD
Parent of child with autism
Instructor, Exceptional Education at Buffalo State;
PhD candidate at University at Buffalo
Provide a welcoming environment for parents and other caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorders to ask questions and learn more about ASDs and community services and supports.
Thursday, June 12, 2014
5-8 p.m. ~ Light refreshments will be served.
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1350 Ruie Road
North Tonawanda, NY 14120
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Call or go online to reserve your spot today!
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Directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk (황동혁)
Screenplay by Hwang Dong-hyuk (황동혁)125min | Release date in South Korea : 2011/09/22
Also known as "Dogani" and "The Crucible"
Based on the novel of the same name written by star author Gong Ji-young, Silenced follows a group of children with disabilities who suffer physical and sexual abuse at the hands of their teachers.
Gong is one of a few star authors in Korea whose novels have sold more than a million copies. When her novel was published in June 2009, it became an instant hit not only because it was written by Gong but because it is based on a true story.
The film begins as Gang In-ho (Gong Yoo), who is working to earn money for his daughters surgery, is appointed to a school for hearing-impaired children in Gwangju. But what he discovers there is an ugly truth: the children are being physically and sexually abused by their teachers. When he decides to fight for the childrens rights and expose the crimes being committed at the school, In-ho teams up with human rights activist Seo Yu-jin (Jeong Yu-mi). But he and Yu-jin soon realize the schools principal and teachers, and even the police, prosecutors and churches in the community are actually trying to cover up the truth.
Director Hwang Dong-hyuk, who previously directed the 2007 hit film My Father, has received rave reviews for turning a successful novel into a well-made motion picture.
|Gong Yoo (공유)
Kang In-ho (강인호)
|Jung Yu-mi (정유미)
Seo Yoo-jin (서유진)
|Kim Hyun-soo (김현수)
Kim Yeon-doo (김연두)
|Jung In-seo (정인서)
Jin Yoo-ri (진유리)
|Baek Seung-hwan (백승환)
Jeon Min-soo (전민수)
|Jang Gwang (장광)
Principal's Brother (교장형제)
|Kim Min-sang (김민상)
Park Bo-hyeon (박보현)
|Im Hyun-sung (임현성)
Yeong-hoon (영훈)
|Kim Joo-ryeong (김주령)
Yoon Ja-ae (윤자애)
|Uhm Hyo-sup (엄효섭)
Detective Jang (장형사)
|Jun Gook-hwan (전국환)
Lawyer Hwang (황변호사)
|Choi Jin-ho (최진호)
Prosecutor (검사)
|Kwon Hong-seok (권홍석)
Judge (판사)
|Kim Ji-yeong (김지영)
In-ho's mother (인호 어머니)
|Park Hye-jin (박혜진)
Principal's Wife (교장처)
|Kim Ji-young-III (김지영)
Sol-i (솔이)
|Uhm Ji-sung (엄지성)
Yeong-soo (영수)
|Lee Jang-yoo (이장유)
Garage Boss (정비소 사장)
|Nam Myung-ryul (남명렬)
Professor Kim Jeong-woo (김정우 교수)
|Jang So-yeon (장소연)
Sign Language Interpreter (수화통역사)
|Hong Suk-yun (홍석연)
Janitor (수위)
|Kim Tae-ri (김태리)
Obstetrician/Gynecologist (산부인과 여의사)
|Hong Seong-kyeong (홍성경)
Mu-jin Educational Office School Inspector (무진교육청 장학관)
|Bae Jeong-min (배정민)
Mu-jin Educational Office Chief Kim (무진교육청 김과장)
|Park Jin-woo (박진우)
Pastor (교회목사)
|Jeon Seok (전석)
Man at Church (교회남)
|Jeon Woo-jae (전우재)
Court Attendant 1 (법원정리1)
|Yoo Soo-an (유수안)
Court Clerk (법원서기)
|Jeon Gyeom-soo (전겸수)
Court Attendant 1 (법원정리1)
|Lee Geum-yong (이금용)
Court Attendant 2 (법원정리2)
|Lee Geul-yong (이글용)
Court Attendant 2 (법원정리2)
|Park Seung-won (박승원)
Court Attendant 3 (법원정리3)
|Heo Jae-ho (허재호)
Broadcast Producer (방송피디)
|Jung Hyungsuk (정형석)
Publishing Office Employee (출판사사무실 직원)
|Park Seon-hee (박선희)
Min-soo's Grandmother (민수할머니)
|Cha Yoo-bong (차유봉)
Min-soo's Father (민수아버지)
|Sin So-jeong (신소정)
Hostess 1 (단란아가씨1)
|Park Sui (박수이)
Hostess 2 (단란아가씨2)
|Han Byeol (한별)
Hostess 3 (단란아가씨3)
|Won Dong-hwa (원동화)
Hostess 4 (단란아가씨4)
|Yoon Soo-ae (윤수애)
Hostess 5 (단란아가씨5)
|Jo Eung-gyoo (조응규)
Stand-in for Principal's Brother (교장형제 대역)
|Kim Kyeong-ah (김경아)
Radio DJ (라디오 DJ)
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DVD HK (En Sub)
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View all 52 pictures for "Silenced"
|Naver Café (네이버 카페)
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May's monthly processing that began on May 6, 2014 completed on May 15, 2014. Updated 75-1 reports (ADM, SPED and ELL) are available through SDDI or Student Detail Reports, both available through Common Logon. Also, the ADMS40 series reports (including the 46-1) and the SPED28-1 and ELLS28-1 reports are available here.
For charters, these new 40 series and SPED/ELL reports will be used to determine your June 2, 2014 state aid payment.
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Badge - House of Commons Enamel Lapel Pin Badge
Fleur De Lys Bracelet
House of Commons Diary 2015
House of Commons Plain Chocolate Mint Creams - 200g
Mini Mints
Mistakes, mishaps and millions of pounds of wasted money are exposed here in this look at the blunders of the UK government.
The concluding volume of Chris Bryants magisterial biography covering the last 200 years of our national parliament.
Taking as its launch point Anthony Croslands The Future of Socialism, Peter Hain lays out a political prospectus for those of the centre left to pursue.
SIGNED COPIES AVAILABLE. A combatant in the social, industrial & political upheavals of the last half century, he's resisted telling his extraordinary story. Until now.
Fifty bite-sized chapters dealing with all aspects of voting behaviour in anticipation of the 2015 General Election.
Popularly known as spin doctors this is a scholarly investigation into special advisors; the people, their role and their importance in the scheme of things.
SIGNED COPIES AVAILABLE. Please, Mister Postman is another astonishing book from the award-winning author of This Boy.
Award-winning author Philip Coggan examines the nature and condition of political democracies in todays world how it will need to adapt and repel growing threats to its survival.
Suitable for the interested voter or the eager campaigner this volume is crammed full of data and analysis pertaining to next years election.
This beautifully illustrated book brings alive one of the most important historical documents of all time. For the first time an English king had to agree to a document that limited his powers.


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Wednesday, November 05, 2008
The story of a Baptist pastor's wife who voted for Obama
She went to a small Baptist college, where she received a small Baptist scholarship. She took her first political science course, taught by one of the pillars of this institution ... and within the first week he proudly stated that he had always been, and would always be, a Democrat. The girl was looking around her, wondering why everyone else was not having a heart attack. I mean, he might as well have said he cross-dresses on the weekends. She kept wondering, "How is the university okay with this??" Because, Democrats did not follow Jesus ... right?
Our heroine married. She married a good Baptist minister, and they served in a quickly dwindling good Baptist white church in the middle of a Hispanic neighborhood. She worked for one of the most well-known fundamentalist Baptist pastor's in the nation.
And then everything changed.
She met people outside of her good Baptist circle that also loved Jesus. She thought that everything she ever needed to know, she had learned at the Southern Baptist Convention. But lo and behold, she had not been given the whole story. Her theory that no one had to live in poverty if they just worked hard and budgeted ... well, wait a minute ... that's not necessarily accurate? The Bible talks about the poor? Like the stuff that good Baptists should be doing for the poor?
Our girl fell more in love with Jesus every day. She soaked him up like a sponge. Yet, the more she did that, the more he challenged her to do more ... to learn more ... to understand more ... to love and serve more.
Her entire world view changed. Ironically, it finally included - the whole world! She realized how wealthy she was. She realized how selfish she was. She realized how wasteful she was. And God said, "Please change this," and she said, "Ah, crap."
She opened her heart. She opened her life. She started worshiping God by taking care of all he provides. She became a much better steward of things, and living with less so that her family could share more. She added children to her home whose history and heritage cannot even fathom the wealth of the US middle class. She read what God has to say about peace and love and mercy and grace, because this was new to her. She had spent most of her childhood talking about not having sex, and was too busy for all that other stuff.
Abortion once disgusted her, but now it made her cry. She studied it - really studied it. She found that the Republicans had a plan for stopping abortion, but in reality, it wouldn't work. In fact, it might only put a small dent in it. Yet, with more active social programs, fewer women have abortions. The mothers want to parent their babies, they just need a way. They need more options. And our girl realized that for every woman who selfishly takes advantage or is purposefully irresponsible, there are many more who raise their children into adulthood. Her typical straight ticket would do nothing for dying babies and desperate mothers now - nothing.
"Ah, crap."
She was normal, in all of the normal ways. She liked money. Her husband liked money. Money buys things. Money is cool. Yet, the love of it is also the root of all evil. So, knowing that life will always cost more and more and more money, her family started to spend less. They planned for increases and did not live on all of their money ... and they could start to give more away. They had more than they needed, and they shared with those who did not. And it was good. And there were people in government that wanted to do more of the same types of programs (like public schools), to help more people be healthy and have a better chance at being sustainable. That is kind of world that our girl wanted. That is America to her.
The Republicans yelled in her ear, "The Democrats want all of your money!" So, what would they do with all that money? She studied it. She learned about it. She realized it would go to help all people. It would go to make our nation more sustainable, which would then free up more money to help more people all over the world. It would be a greater reflection of how her own home functions ... a way which reflects her Jesus. While God's church is supposed to be serving "the least of these," we also are some of the wealthiest people in the world, and our country could do more. Our country could glorify God. She liked that. Our girl liked that!
And so it was, in November 2008, our girl cast her vote for the very first African American president. She completed that arrow with her felt tip pen, knowing that this candidate, even though he believes in the same Jesus, did not reflect her in every opinion or approach. She helped to elect a man for a job, not a Savior for eternity. She exercised an amazing right, that many people around the world do not enjoy. She did so, knowing that there are many that feel she was sinful. She cried a bit, realizing that people assume her relationship with Christ is shallow or watered down (words that good Baptists use a lot to talk about those who try to make their faith fit their lifestyle). She found herself heartbroken by these thoughts, because she made her decision completely guided by her God and the book of his words that he has left for her. She knows that every single fault and slip of this president will mean a few "I told you so's."
In the Bible Belt, she took the road less traveled.
She voted for Obama.
The pastor's wife of the First Baptist Church in rural Oklahoma voted for Barack Obama.
And she now wonders if she would get fewer hateful comments and emails if she had just said she was a lesbian.
98 comments:
- dreamingBIGdreams said...
I love your post. I am proud of you Baptist preachers wife.
I totally get what you mean about people questioning your salvation if you even say the word Obama. YUCK it makes me want to throw up!
Have a great day! I LOVE LOVE LOVE your blog!
- November 05, 2008 2:31 PM
- Jessica said...
Yes, I am WITH you! My husband was a pastor at a large Baptist church in a small town and recently left the ministry (philosophical reasons NOT moral failure) . . . and now that people in our small town know that we supported Obama we are beyond heretics . . . if there is such a thing . . . I can relate to your story on many levels. .. I always look forward to your posts on my reader. Intelligent, convicting . .. thanks. You're right, it may be better to admit you're a lesbian! Ha! Hope you don't get a lot of crap about it, it sounds like you are leading authentically and Biblically
- November 05, 2008 2:34 PM
- princessdreacolgrove said...
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT ! I felt some of these same feelings as well yesterday, but I knew when I heard his speech at the end of the night in my heart I made the right choice ! People may judge me and you, but it is their own ignorence ! Same goes for those who judged me on that one, lonely, cold, dark day ! BUT...not one single person except for God can judge me, nor does anybody know the reasoning or circumstances behind any of the decisiones you or I may make in our lifetime !
P.S. We lost our baby cousin in the early hours of the morning today. He was 7 weeks old. Most likely SIDS. It took me back to a place I was 2 years ago and I was a complete mess ! I'm trying to build up enough courage to make it there, but I don't know if I can. J has been in Mexia since early this morning. This morning it also reminded me of how THANKFUL I am to YOU for being there for me through every step of the way when I lost my precious Presley !
- November 05, 2008 2:46 PM
- happygeek said...
This Canadian who grew up Baptist who thought Liberal was a swear word until she was 19 would have voted Obama had she been allowed. (there's these crazy rules about citizenship.)
I have always, always expected rhetoric in an election. And propaganda. But the extent of the "Christian" propaganda this time has saddened me greatly.
God is not a card carrying member of any organization. He probably doesn't care who you vote for as much as the why.
- November 05, 2008 2:46 PM
- Mom-To-Be said...
Thank you for having independent thought. Thank you for being brave enough to post things that people may not agree with (sometimes including myself). Thank you for not being afraid....maybe one day I can be half as not afraid as you are.
- November 05, 2008 3:08 PM
- Llama Momma said...
Bless you. Bless you. Bless you.
- November 05, 2008 3:10 PM
- Georgia said...
That was da bomb diggity.
- November 05, 2008 4:09 PM
There was a small baptist preacher, of a small baptist church, that didn't want to vote. But, he did...holding his nose because he didn't like the choices.
His nominee didn't win, but that doesn't mean he's angry. He remembers that God is in control, and the person now in charge is a profession christian.
So, he goes back to his small preachy ways, of his small baptist church. Maybe, is some small way, he might actually begin to look like Jesus...
Love ya, hun!
- November 05, 2008 4:36 PM
- Lyds said...
you amaze me more and more each time we interact. why weren't we bff in college?!?! haha nah, i probably would have tried to make out with you ;)
- November 05, 2008 4:40 PM
- darbishar said...
It makes me sad to see how red our state is. I wanted to see a little blue spot in the OKC that represented my vote. I wanted to be able to point to it and say "see that's me, there's my vote!" But I guess that is what I get for living in a state where people who share my same views are few and far between. Cheers to you other blue spot!
- November 05, 2008 4:44 PM
- Sara said...
I'm proud of you. Had you voted with your heart and it said vote McCain I would be proud of you too. Voting with intelligence and leading with your heart...thats the way to go. THere is no wrong in that.
- November 05, 2008 4:58 PM
- Recovering Noah said...
Awww, Christine. Love you. Love, love, love you!!
I'm going to have to link to your blog. Amazing post.
Leslie :-)
- November 05, 2008 5:00 PM
- Julia said...
Thank you so much for writing this. I come from (and still live in) a similar cultural environment as you and also voted for Obama and this was really encouraging to read.
- November 05, 2008 5:02 PM
- Christine said...
Lydia, you're probably right. One of my other sweet homo gal pals tells me I would make a great lesbian.
What exactly does that mean, anyway???
- November 05, 2008 5:07 PM
- CC said...
Yet again, I could not have said it better myself.
I could not, could not have felt good about any other decision knowing that every frickin' day my students are going home to nothing. Literally. They have no health care, no food, no clothes, no mentors. And the programs that once supported them in these areas? All cut. Cut!?
My vote is about social justice. And although abortion makes me cry (hey, I"m an adoptive mama too), keeping a child only to neglect and abuse it because you had no intention of being a mom and no support... that makes me cry more. And I work with about 20 of these kids right now. Today. One hour ago.
Love, a seminary student's wife who voted for Obama and cried tears of joy last night.
- November 05, 2008 6:09 PM
- BooBs said...
You know I cried tears of joy about this election and you just got me all choked up again.
Your courage constantly amazes me. Keep on walking the walk, and leading by example.
NLA in NYC
- November 05, 2008 6:20 PM
- Heather of the EO said...
I am in love with this post. Sorry if I pass it on to about 5 bazillion people without your permission.
- November 05, 2008 6:30 PM
- Kelli said...
I'll have to go against the tide and say, you didn't have to vote for either one.
Oh Christine, I'm so sad. I'm so glad you are real, but seriously? I mean, seriously you voted for Obama?
As a h/s mom, have you had the chance to study economic practices of the past? In theory, spreading it around sounds good but as far back in our country as the Puritans did they try that and it failed. Great in theory, lousy for the economy in reality. People began being less generous knowing all they produced by hard work went to those who were not working and then there was barely enough to cover everyone's needs. We can not let government programs solve any of our needs. As Christians, we need to be the hands and yes, we've (me) have done a crummy, crummy job of this.
One question, I am sincerely asking if you used any scripture to base your choice on. I really am sincerely interested. I was convicted in a completely different direction (I couldn't vote for either McCain or Obama) by God's word. Just would love an open discussion on that. No bashing. I am truly interested...
BTW, it's the love of money that's the root of all evil..not money itself.
- November 05, 2008 6:54 PM
- Hillary said...
"She helped to elect a man for a job, not a Savior for eternity."
FAbulous post, Christine!
- November 05, 2008 7:04 PM
- Kelli said...
To clarify, I did vote, but chose the write-in option.
- November 05, 2008 7:05 PM
- Cammie said...
Ugh! Let me just say I am not surprised...you did pimp him whenever you had the chance...and I love you for your independent mind!
- November 05, 2008 7:13 PM
- Jessica said...
I hope you don't mind if I link to you?
- November 05, 2008 7:46 PM
I felt much the same way voting for Obama in a traditionally red state, when certain in-laws have made very clear their opinion of the eternal destination of anyone who votes for him...
I was shocked and happy to see my state (Indiana) voting blue for the first time in 40-some years.
I work in a large inner-city hospital, and I wholeheartedly believe that the majority of these moms are doing the best they can for their babies. Sometimes these social programs (WIC, Head Start, social workers, daycare subsidies) that are so often cut are making all the difference in helping them parent their babies well.
- November 05, 2008 8:09 PM
I go to a church that is mostly conservative. I am more liberal than most people there. I am a Christian, no doubt about it in my mind.
When I went to an Obama rally, before we got in, I saw some people holding up a sign that said, "Christians for Obama." "yes," I thought to myself, "that's where I belong." :)
Judy/Just Enjoy Him
- November 05, 2008 9:06 PM
One of my big issues in this election (as ever) was abortion/life. The classic pro-life answer is so clear: it's Republican, it's the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
Another of my big issues (really big for me) is the problem of health care. Having experienced first hand both the US system and universal healthcare abroad, I am keen to see the latter introduced, so the answer to this one is Democrat.
Two big issues, split between the candidates... What to do? And then I realised the two were actually hand-in-glove.
If a woman who has no insurance becomes pregnant, what are her choices? Paying out of pocket to give birth will cost her... what?... $5,000 with no complications? $15,000 with interventions? $40,000 with severe complications? Or, she could have an abortion -- how much does that cost? If these are her options, it's easy to see how even someone who has a moral objection to abortion may feel they have no other option. $5,000... $15,000... or more... it's a lot of money.
One sixth of the women in this country are uninsured. And, even amongst the ones who have insurance, a awful lot of them don't have maternity cover. So that's a huge percentage of women in the US -- potentially as many as a third of the population -- who would have to face this financial choice if they ended up pregnant.
And they would still have to face that choice even if Roe v. Wade were overturned, because you know as well as I do that someone somewhere would be offering them a backstreet abortion...
But if the US had universal healthcare, where all pregnancies were covered, everything changes. The cost of giving birth disappears (or diminishes) as a deciding factor -- the issue for the pregnant woman becomes one of whether she wants the baby, not of how she pays the hospital bill. And for a lot of women, that very well might be the thing that turns them away from a termination and turns them toward the possibility of life instead.
So, the question for pro-lifers is, is it just about making abortion illegal, or is it about actually reducing the number of babies who die through abortion? Because if it's the latter, then Obama -- for all his being so clearly pro-choice -- might actually be offering a policy that would bring the pro-life movement closer to its true goal. And that strange twist created a huge dilemma for me and made this election very very difficult indeed!
- November 05, 2008 9:09 PM
- Christine said...
Thanks for pointing out the type-o. It has been corrected.
Feel free to google search or check out the Matthew 25 Network, as a starting place on Christ Followers who voted for Obama. I'm sorry this is new to you. These discussions have been going on for two years.
- November 05, 2008 9:18 PM
- Tammy said...
Thank you for posting this - makes me feel like I'm not the only one. I voted for Obama for similar reasons, after much careful thought. My husband supports me (and voted likewise) but my parents think I have gone insane.
Thank you for voicing so elegantly what I feel.
- November 05, 2008 9:19 PM
- Tracy said...
I just love you.
- November 05, 2008 9:20 PM
- QueenTracy said...
*clapping* Good for you! This Southern Baptist Preacher's wife from a small rural town in Missouri also voted for Obama. Its been a tough week. "Friends" have turned to political enemies and today? Today when I am happy and hopeful...they are uh...well...cranky! LOL
- November 05, 2008 9:42 PM
- mvaughn said...
Ever since I watched Schindlers List, I am haunted by the closing scene of "I could have done more". A man that did so much, yet realizing he could have done more. Abortion cannot be the only issue of importance, but with just one more Supremem Court justice possibly swaying the decision, and two presumed to be appointed by the next president, could the selection of president have done more?
Do countries with universal health care not have abortions? I don't think universal health care will stop the obsession with silencing young heartbeats to preserve our social life or to avoid "inconvenience". (I know there are more reasons, which is why I also support exceptions to any ban on abortion...I am generalizing to make a point).
The government requires me to have auto insurance, but neither my employer or the government helps pay for it. By requiring it, the government created a large demand, which drove prices down to a point most everyone can afford. Why can't health insurance be the same. Require it, maybe even regulate rates, but don't run it. Government runs a lot of things, and it always cost more money to deliver less.
I won't judge one vote over another, as there are so many issues to consider and good people can disagree and both still be good people. I certainly will not question one's faith, no is fit to do that but Christ. Personally, I just worry that I will one day face a soul that died a painful death and realize I could have done more.
- November 05, 2008 10:29 PM
- Candis said...
The following never fail to surprise, yet reassure me:
-How party affiliation CAN convey salvation
-How people persist in equating image with reality
-How white segregationist Jesse Helms managed to produce a black daughter.
-How $750,000,000.00 is NOT welfare
-How Barack Obama is somehow WRONG
-How admittedly non-religious John McCain is somehow RIGHT
-How NRA memberships are a sign of righteousness
-How common Pharisees are, even today
Christine, you are, incomparably, my favorite life pundit. You are the realest, dude. Don't stop.
- November 05, 2008 10:43 PM
- Brenda said...
Well written Christine. I voted for McCain but had such a hard time doing it. I do not like the man but agree with his politics more than Obama who I like much more as a person. I wouldn't even tell my kids who I voted for because I was so disgusted. It is the first year I have ever been so torn. Tough election but its over. Whew!!
- November 06, 2008 7:28 AM
- Kelli said...
Thanks Christine- I have indeed delved into the topics on both sides and have lived in all the extremes of Christianity (raised liberal Episcopalian, swung to Assemblies of God, then to non-denominational Christian churches and now delving back into Reformed Theology all while living in 7 states in very different parts of the US. I so understand the "Bible Belt mentality" and love that you question it. I guess I thought you were going to vote "out of the box". I was surprised I guess. I mean NO disrespect to you! :)
- November 06, 2008 8:54 AM
- mlg said...
Hi Christine, this is Matt Gierhart from Levelland. I really loved reading this post, really well written and thought out. Great work on your blog and particularly this post.
- November 06, 2008 10:10 AM
mvaughn -- oh, yes, absolutely countries with universal healthcare do have abortions. I wasn't saying it would halt them completely on its own. But it would certainly remove one of the possible reasons (and a very compelling one) to choose an abortion over giving birth. It is one part of the solution -- but I think it is an important part.
What gave me pause in this election is that I felt that both candidates were offering policies that would, ultimately, both harm and help the prolife cause. Obama's healthplan would, I believe, help it by reducing the cost of giving birth, and yet he himself is so clearly pro-choice. McCain offered a pro-life stance and all that goes with that but, at the same time, his healthcare plan would quite possibly throw millions more women into that difficult cost-dilemma should they become pregnant and therefore possibly push more women to choose to abort. That duality on the part of both candidates made the whole pro-life issue so much more complicated and nuanced in this election.
I also just have to make a note that "universal healthcare" and "socialised healthcare" are actually different things, and the terms are not interchangeable (though a lot of people don't realise this). Where you talk about the government running healthcare, you are talking about socialised healthcare (socialised in the same way that our public schools are a socialised system). Universal simply means that everyone is covered in one way or another, but not that the government necessarily provides that cover. Obama's plan leans more toward universal cover than socialised (government run) cover.
I forgot to say in my first comment(and I meant to) how much I loved this post, Christine. Very well put!
- November 06, 2008 10:32 AM
- Amy said...
That was beautiful. Thank you for sharing so clearly and eloquently. All I have to say is, "yeah, that!"
- November 06, 2008 11:03 AM
Brave, brave post Christine. I long to have the moxy that is in just your pinky finger. Having grown up Baptist, and still living and working in baptist circles here in the south, my hubby and I constantly feel like we are swimming with the salmon. Thankfully, a few years back, we switched denominations over to the Episcopal church, and finally found our "peeps". (We had thought we were the only ones!) It is a definitely weird - - but very cool - - experience to pull into our church parking lot now and see an equal amount of red and blue bumper stickers! Yet, outside of church, our lives are completely interspersed with conservative baptist theology and politics, and it can get achingly difficult to be straightforward with our true convictions. Thanks so much for being an example to how it can be done! Blessings!
- November 06, 2008 11:08 AM
- sarahd said...
Here's to the road less-traveled. It is intriguing how much can be assumed about a party, isn't it? Just because a person may be Republican or Democrat doesn't make them more or less moral, ethical, or concerned with the business of enabling people to pull themselves up to greater possibilities. Our country is facing some of the most demanding challenges that this generation has seen. Thank you Christine for your honesty and speaking from a Jesus perspective. We don't hear that much these days because it requires too much. Thank you Christine for being authentic and transparent. It makes us look at ourselves and know that we have to sacrifice something...be it money, time, possibly the shirt off our own back. Regardless how a person voted November 4th, everyone who calls themselves a Christian needs to pray for President-elect Obama...now more than ever.
- November 06, 2008 11:46 AM
- lana said...
This was the hardest decision I've made voting...ever. I had many discussions and I even started to feel the "eye of judgment" for questioning and dare I say research topics that concerned me.
I don't even feel I need to say who I voted for because that part is over now.. Obama is the man who will be ALL our president, the reds and the blues.
I have hope. I have faith and I continue to pray just as I have no matter if a Dem or Rep was in the white house. That should never change.
And for all of us who somehow decided that this was the year we would wake up, get educated on issues, vote and make our voices heard and question the status quo... be proud. No matter if you man won or not.
Most of all, I am thankful that millions of children woke up yesterday to know that it no longer matters what color your skin is to have a dream and see it fulfilled.
- November 06, 2008 11:49 AM
- lana said...
Oh... and Christine, my old friend, thank you for being my catalyst for change and challenging me to see through new eyes on so many issues.
I love you my sister.
- November 06, 2008 11:51 AM
I so enjoyed your post. You put it beautifully!
- November 06, 2008 12:20 PM
- ♥ said...
You rock on so many levels. I myself am not religious, but I constantly appreciate that you're not just Christian, but also Christ-like.
- November 06, 2008 1:16 PM
- DebiH. said...
- This comment has been removed by the author.
- November 06, 2008 2:41 PM
- Sprittibee said...
Talk to people in Canada about universal health care. I had one of them post on my blog about how horrible it was. I have heard that they wait months and months to be seen. That the care is substandard, and that the waiting periods sometimes outlast the patients. If I were a doctor in America and able to make money here, I would leave the country if my lifestyle changed so much that I had to mortgage my house, sell my car, and was unable to send my kids to college due to the new prices the govt. set for my services. Also, if the govt. controlled health care, why in the world would someone pay out the nose for medical school only to NEVER be able to pay off their loans? Doctors heading out of town, colleges unable to lure people in to med school, shortages of good doctors when you need them, unlimited waiting periods for necessary procedures, ... I see lots of really bad things in the future. But hey - the Canadians can tell you that. They have experienced it first hand.
I liked Ron Paul better than any of the choices. I'm all for doing away with the IRS and the tax code entirely. Make everyone - rich and poor - pay the EXACT SAME. No brain involved. Put it on purchases so illegals are taxed if they work here. Let them all stay, but make them pay in to the system like everyone else. Just imagine 15 billion illegals suddenly starting to pay taxes! HOLY COW - THAT WOULD FIX THE DEFICIT!
Why do people in Washington DC forget how to think after 6 months in office? Oh, yes - I forgot - because lobbying is still legal. It all boils down to money. Follow the money trails and you'll find out a lot of things about BOTH parties that will make you SICK to death of politics FOREVER.
- November 06, 2008 5:35 PM
- Thany said...
Hey! Nice to see you on my side of the blog. It's funny because I just happened to find you again through BlogHer. I was glad because I'd lost you.
I like this post. I appreciate you and your way of speaking/writing your mind. You are never disrespectful of others and you have passion. I love passion.
- November 06, 2008 5:38 PM
- Natalie said...
Too many things to say.
Loved it loved it loved it!
I live in Australia where it is compulsory to vote and i appreciate the influence my vote might have on the wider world community. It amazes me that a country that has such an influence on the world can allow its citizens to ignore their impact and opt out. Proxy your vote to me!!
I really respect McCain as a person but I'm so glad that Obama was elected.
I also understand about the silent "I told you so" every time your electee makes a mistake or political momentum takes things out of their hands. Country leaders are not omnicient! That is why your obligation doesn't stop at voting. You have to keep watching and letting them know when you are happy or disappointed.
I love all your posts and enjoy hearing your opinions. You are such a generous person.
- November 06, 2008 7:51 PM
- Liz said...
Sprittibee; I am Canadian, and while our system is far from perfect, I in no way recognize the system you describe. The question of undocumented immigrants using more benifets and not paying taxes is actually a fairly complex one. Here is another side to the issue http://www.reason.org/commentaries/dalmia_20060501.shtml
- November 06, 2008 8:39 PM
- ♥ said...
Hahaha! I love it when Americans rant about how awful the Canadian health-care system is and then an actual Canadian steps in and says "what are you talking about?" Puts a smile on my face every time!
- November 06, 2008 9:10 PM
- Perspective is Everything said...
Thank you for writing this! I have felt so alone in the much larger "RED" state below you. I totally went into this election open.. prayerfully considered, and researched the issues.. and OBAMA is the place I ended up.
I'm amazed at how many people are driven by their fears. AND what they'll say to you!
Nevertheless.. I will always be able to say my vote made history! I may be eating that later.. but it's a chance I'm willing to take. GOBAMA!
And I would embrace your words, even if you were a cross dressing lesbian democrat... :P LOL..
- November 06, 2008 9:57 PM
- Megan@SortaCrunchy said...
Wow. YES! I'm no pastor's wife, but I'm an (Oklahoma) Southern Baptist from birth and I can totally, completely relate to everything you said. Thank you for putting words to what I've been too scared to say.
- November 06, 2008 10:42 PM
that was a wonderful post. following convictions isn't easy when they lead away from the majority.. what a comfort that Jesus's arms are always welcoming and he whispers to us, not about our voting or about our political stance, but about how much he loves us and that our desire to do what pleases Him is a fragrant aroma to Him!
btw, thanks for continuing to pray -- things are SO MUCH BETTER. almost 180. i finished that book "intimate issues" in two weeks, and have just been trying to let go of my expectations and my feelings of urgency about laundry, dishes, and whatnot, which were the big show stoppers. (whaaaa? dishes over making LOVE with my HUSBAND??) needless to say, things have gotten much more EXCITING now.. ;) THANK YOU for praying!!
- November 06, 2008 10:44 PM
- happygeek said...
Spritibee, what you talkin about?
I am a Canadian, born and raised, and lived in Texas for two years.
Seen and lived both systems.
No Doc here goes hungry, that is for certain. There kids still go to college, in fact most of us can afford to, they are subsidized as well.
The wait is longer than y'all have, but it is prioritized and all the care I and my developmentally delayed kids have received has been exceptional.
Yes, people have died waiting for care. Just like many people have died in the US because they could not afford care.
There is no insurance company telling me I have hit my limit.
It is not perfect but it is a system I will ALWAYS defend. AND the father of it, a Christian who believed in social justice.
Sorry to Hi-jack your comments Christine, I just hate to see the system run down by those who have no real knowledge of it.
- November 06, 2008 10:44 PM
First... Christine, I apologise for having hijacked your comments section with my comment. A few hours after I posted my first one, I kind of kicked myself a little for getting carried away like that. I apologise if it was inappropriate.
Second... I'll just take a moment to explain to Sprittibee that I actually have first-hand experience of both a universal (and, for that matter, socialised) healthcare system, having lived in the UK for the past 15 years, and of the US system. In my experience of the two, both are flawed, both sometimes involve delays (I had to wait longer in the US for some things than I did in the US), and in one country my daughter was denied care for necessary treatment... a-a-and that country would be the US. When I compare my experience of both countries' systems, I can honestly say I prefer universal care, flaws and all.
- November 06, 2008 11:18 PM
- Carrien said...
I've never been here before. I really love this post, even though we would probably find ourselves at odds in some political opinions.
I've been privileged this election to have loving and intelligent conversation with my brothers and sisters on both sides about the issues surrounding this election. And while we may not agree on our politics, we all agree that the single greatest issue is how best to love our neighbor. (I stole that phrase from my friend because I loved it so much.)
I'm aware that there are large segments of the church where such discussion would be near impossible.
Anyway, I'll probably come back to see what else comes out of your brain.
ps. I have a nose ring too. And I'm married to a PK.
- November 07, 2008 2:21 AM
- Joanna said...
Hi, I'm here via a BlogHer link, and I just want to say THANK YOU.
I'm a girl who, too, grew up Southern Baptist and then fell in love with Jesus and his words about serving the poor as an adult, and came to the same conclusion about abortion that you describe. In conversations during this election, hurtful words have been said to me by friends when I try to describe my logic. Just glad to know I'm not alone, and not crazy :)
- November 07, 2008 6:54 AM
I haven't read all the comments, but I just wanted to say that this speaks volumes to Christians in all denominations. Thank you for sharing.
- November 07, 2008 8:24 AM
- MommaJen said...
beautifully written. I may even out myself! Lance and I both voted for Obama and it is not a popular decision here in Aggieland at all!
I hope you don't mind, but I'm going to send your link to a local blogger here with COMPLETE opposite view from you.
Take a look at her blog www.allthingshendrick.blogspot.com
I'm mostly disagree with what she writes, but am trying to be open-minded!
- November 07, 2008 9:08 AM
- familygregg said...
You are still fun, transparent and authentic....even though you are now officially INSANE in my book!
I have been waffling on the insanity question since the no toilet paper post....now I'm convinced.
- November 07, 2008 9:38 AM
- Christine said...
Hi, I am Christine too. We have adopted 5 children---2 from disruption too. Nice to meet you. This is well written howver, I voted for McCain. My huge issue is abortion and while I agree with what you wrote and how little change will come by just reversing Roe vs. Wade I saw a speech where Obama himself said that if his girls made a mistake he would not want them to be punished with a baby. To me, that is more than him leaving options open for those women who feel that they have no other options----- it sounds like he wants to make sure he leaves the option open for his own girls. I will never vote for someone who feels that killing a life is justified because a pregnancy is punishment if the girl is young and unmarried.
- November 07, 2008 9:41 AM
- Christine said...
Christine, this is where my heart has completely changed over the last several years. I had to grapple with God and say, "What do I do? Do I vote on principle, making the legality of abortion the only issue? Or do I vote, knowing that I disagree with a candidate's viewpoint, but knowing that in practice I am giving life, and I'm giving it right now?"
You see ... I'm all about life.
Part of my voting decision this year came from no longer wanting the blood of wanted children on my hands ... while sitting around waiting on some law to pass ... a law that would not give a flying flip about the "why" of abortion and the individuals that have them.
Babies will always be aborted. That has been happening since the beginning of time. People - loving people - disagree on whether or not a life that is not viable outside of the womb should come first in the decision process. That won't change. Poverty won't change.
I think some of you are looking for answers, and think that I may believe that Obama can create some sort of utopia for everyone. I think that, for some things, there are no solutions. I'm not looking for an answer. I'm looking to share. And if my family has to suffer for it ... then we'll suffer. If my family has to wait for a doctor, then we'll wait (because it means everyone has a fair shot at seeing a doctor). If my family has to work harder, and plan better and sacrifice more ... we'll do it. For us, that is why we are here.
My family's dream for America includes every single solitary person, born or waiting to be born. It's complicated. It's messy. It will never, ever be perfect. In fact, it will be hard. It may be really, really hard. I realize that many of you don't agree with that. I wouldn't expect you to. We have different definitions of the American dream.
- November 07, 2008 10:40 AM
Just seeing your blog for the first time (I linked it from a comment you made on The Mouro Family). Just wanted to add to the "love it!" comments. :-) This post is fab. I'm telling others to check it out.
- November 07, 2008 10:47 AM
- Christine said...
Thanks for posting back. Your comment about Obama being able to create some utopia scares the be-jeebers out of me. He is not God, nor will there be utopia on this earth until Christ comes again.
We can agree to disagree.......... still I appreciate your post. BTW, it may have been a huge margin in the electoral college but the popular vote didn't have that big of a spread.
- November 07, 2008 11:04 AM
- Rachel said...
what a fabulous post. thank you so much for writing that so eloquently. I, too, am a Christian, and could not see any other way to vote - I vote for the candidate with the platform that most celebrates life from conception to natural death, NOT conception to birth. I realize Obama is not going to create utopia, but I cannot wait to see how this country will change anyway.
Thanks, again. Jenabroad pointed me to your link from your comment on the Mouro family.
- November 07, 2008 11:22 AM
- Arby said...
It never ceases to amaze me how God talks to so many Christians and leads them in ways that completely conflict with one another. He tells some people to vote Democratic and some people to vote Republican and each one knows for certain that their choice is a direct reflection of God's will expressed to them. His ways are truly amazing and a complete mystery to me. I can only wonder if God wants the United States to be a political scrambled egg. We are the 21st century's Tower of Babel.
We live in a nation where we have the freedom of speech and the right to vote in elections to choose our citizen legislators, without reprisal. Forgive me if I am not impressed by your dramatic stand in voting for President-elect Obama, because 122,145,887 citizens voted without reprisal (except for those voters intimidated by Black Panthers with night sticks outside Philadelphia polling places - http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1179491/black_panthers_accused_of_philadelphia.html), and of those 122,145,887 voters, the majority of them voted for Obama. Your vote really wasn't a profile in courage, regardless of how red your state map appears.
What stands out in your very honest and passionate blog entry is the complete lack of a factual look at a nation trillions of dollars in debt with no plan for eliminating debt but many promises of higher taxes and higher spending. As a nation we have to borrow money every day to keep operating. This isn't Republican or Democrat, or upper class or lower class – it's American debt and economics and we can't spend our way out of this problem. Financially, the US is sinking fast, and President –elect Obama appears to have no ideas about how to stop the descent.
We have a nation headed for universal health care under President-elect Obama even though universal healthcare has many problems, the least of which is the growing trend in nations such as England of rationing health care and choosing who gets treated and who does not based on issues such as weight and smoking status. At least in the US, fat smokers can get health care. Canada has situations where people like Pastor Lehotsky die of their disease before they can get an appointment to diagnose the condition (he went to the Mayo in the US for a diagnosis, and died months before his Canadian appointment for initial consultation). And we can afford universal health care, how?
Lastly, when a baby is aborted a life is killed. Square that with the commandment, "Thou shalt not murder." I fail to see the gray in that issue. Every time there is an abortion a baby dies. It's pretty black and white to me. I do not know what God is telling you about abortion, but He obviously isn't telling me the same things.
You have written an honest statement and I respect your right to say what you have said. I am happy to see that you voted. I hope that you live happily with the results of your choice.
- November 07, 2008 11:24 AM
- Christine said...
Arby----- well written! Thanks! If I post in the future, can I add your comment here?
- November 07, 2008 11:41 AM
- Christine said...
Christine, I'm pretty sure that you did not read my reply correctly (in reference to "utopia"). You might want to give that another gander.
Arby, you might understand me better by reading my reply to Christine above (confusing, I know - two Christine's! ha!). I'm not looking for things to be perfect, or even great all the time. I'm looking for things to equal.
That would also help you see that I believe babies die with every abortion, and I am doing what I feel will keep more children alive ... but not just alive, but with their mothers. For me, there is no gray area on when life occurs. I lost a child when it had been growing just six weeks in my womb. I moarn that child ... my child that I never held ... a child that I truly believe that I will see again one day.
Again, I'm all about life.
- November 07, 2008 12:38 PM
- Recovering Noah said...
Arby, please, please tell me that you are against the death penalty and against the war in Iraq.
As you said, there is no gray in, "Thou shalt not murder."
- November 07, 2008 1:34 PM
- beth said...
Me, too. That's all I've got to say.
I heart you, Baptist preacher's wife.
- November 07, 2008 2:05 PM
- Amy @ Experience Imagination said...
- November 07, 2008 3:43 PM
- Amy @ Experience Imagination said...
Gee, maybe I should finish that comment :P
I first read your post the other day. I thought you made a good point, then, but didn't realize just how good your post was until today. I read three different posts today talking about the election and suggesting--if not outright saying--that anyone who voted for Obama and claimed to be a Christian was a moron and completely self-deluded about their salvation.
Your post stands out as a beacon of thoughtful, loving dialog. Thank you for continuing to share your heart and your mind with us. I am, again, inspired to take another look at my own life and see where God might have me making some more sacrifices to bless the lives of others.
- November 07, 2008 3:51 PM
Just a passer-by here... one who is genuinely baffled at some of the thoughts expressed here.
I hope nothing I write comes across as hateful but I must address how inconsistent it is for you to say you are "all about life" yet vote for a man who, regardless of how reasonable he may sound, has made no effort to reduce the number of abortions and quite to the contrary, Obama defended the most brutal of all types of abortions, partial-birth.
Abortion is one area Obama does not wish to change! He had an opportunity to make a small change in abortion laws in his state and because he was concerned that banning partial birth abortions might weaken the standing of Roe vs. Wade, he passed. So, just for the sake of keeping it real, you Obama supporters helped allow the murder of millions of babies a year to continue. I don't think saying that is hateful, it's truthful.
You mention the passing of a law that disregards the "why" of abortion and the "individual" who chooses the have one. Well, let's talk about them for a second. Why do people choose to have an abortion? I know my young cousin chose to have one because she and her husband believed they couldn't afford another child- and it wasn't a healthcare issue. They are on Medicare, so medical costs would have been covered. I know she was duped into thinking it would feel just like period cramps when in reality she said it was much more painful and I know she wasn't told that she should be prepared to see her aborted baby's little body which was developed enough for my cousin to tell it was a little girl. (By the way it came out in the shower and clogged the drain.) My sweet cousin wasn't prepared for the emotional toll either, such as the breakdown into tears and the guilt-ridden confession when she first visited me with my newborn baby who would have been a few weeks younger than her baby. There are millions and millions of abortion stories- "individuals" with their own "whys". Some aren't as horrible as my cousins, some are worse. None are good. Abortions may be chosen due to fear, shame, inconvenience, etc... but I daresay, many if not most would not happen if abortion were illegal.
Have we heard the arguments so often that we are no longer touched by the very real horror of abortion? Is is just another philosophical/ political issue to be discussed on blogs and message boards but we really can't do anything about? My answer is a strong "No!" We can all do something about this national tragedy that hurts many and helps nobody, every time we vote.
You are right that abortion is not the only issue but it is a starting point to determining a person's true character. If a person doesn't value the lives, the bodies and souls of these helpless little ones enough to even vote against partial birth abortion, chances are great that I'm not gonna agree with this person on much else. With Obama, that has proven true.
- November 07, 2008 3:59 PM
- Christine said...
purebillow, I realize you're just passing by, and I appreciate you taking time to chime in.
I'm not sure where you have done your research. Obama does not support partial-birth abortion.
"I have repeatedly said that I think it's entirely appropriate for states to restrict or even prohibit late-term abortions as long as there is a strict, well-defined exception for the health of the mother. Now, I don't think that "mental distress" qualifies as the health of the mother. I think it has to be a serious physical issue that arises in pregnancy, where there are real, significant problems to the mother carrying that child to term." (Relevant Magazine, July 1, 2008)
He also said in Pantagraph, in March of 1997 that he has supported legislation which bans partial birth abortion as long is there is an exception for the health of the mother.
I would also strongly encourage you to read the new study done by the Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good, titled "Reducing Abortion in America: The Effect of Economic and Social Supports." I encourage all of you to read that study.
- November 07, 2008 4:26 PM
- Missy said...
from this baptist preacher's wife in OKC feeling a bit suffocated by all this 'red', a sincere THANK YOU for your post. it makes me sad to see how political elections have become a litmus test for christianity. you have so eloquently told so many of 'our' stories.....
- November 07, 2008 6:07 PM
- XEW Music said...
found your link at sojourner's...awesome post! i think its becoming more and more common unfortunately, to hear stories of people who were close and because of this election & choices, have parted ways...
i myself have had to put some distance between myself and some family because i was being demonized for my support of obama...even taking it so far as to send me emails insinuating that i was supporting the anti-christ :O
i was "outed" to said family because of those silly email forwards, i made the mistake of responding with a snopes link that lead to more discussion that wasnt so nice on from their end :( so i took to my blog and began to set out my thoughts on politics and faith in the form of essays so there would never again be any confusion as to my opinions and beliefs (im always slapped with the abortion argument) i found sorjourners and it gave me what i needed to FINALLY put it into words..
but as much as this stinks to loose people you love, i appreciate knowing what is really in someones heart before i ever wrap myself up in something with them only to find this out later...
thank you for your honesty and speaking up...we all need to do this much more...and of course then take action!
- November 07, 2008 7:06 PM
- Shara said...
From a Preacher's Wife, a native Okie, living in Red Kansas, thank you. You just wrote my story. :0) I still haven't told anyone that I voted for Obama (i'm not as brave as you), but I won't lie if someone should ask me.
I don't begin to understand how God can speak to all people and then they vote differently, but he does. I was moved by the book of James. It's the book where God spoke to me.
Thank you, Christine!
- November 07, 2008 7:14 PM
- Joni said...
I'm also a 'passerby' - interesting discussion going on here!!
On the topic of healthcare: my husband is from Finland, and I have also lived a couple times. In some aspects the universal healthcare system works, and in some ways it stinks. I guess you could say that about our system, too - but we much prefer the system here in the USA. With the universal system (at least in Finland), you use what doctor is assigned for your area. No choices. No choosing clinics. No deciding which pediatrician or ob doc you feel comfortable with - you take the ONE who is assigned to your area. Have gallbladder issues? Once they determine you need to have it removed (gallbladder) you are automatically on a 6 month waiting list for surgery. Can that be moved up? Well, if you're 'in so much pain you just can't live with it' contact us and we'll see what we can do. I had many discussions while living there that it's easy from there to look at our system and think 'you'll die on the street corner if you are sick and don't have health insurance' - and that's not true. And we see their (universal) system and think 'you could die waiting in line for a surgery', and that's not true. Do you know what was the Finnish person's response every time I mentioned this? 'Well, you actually might die waiting in line to be cared for.' One of our children was born there, and I was happy with the care - we've also had 6 children born here and have been very happy with the care. I also know a lady (Canadian) who is married to a Finnish man who won the 'green card lottery' and moved to Arizona. At the time when he won the g.c. lottery his wife was in Finland 'waiting' on huge amounts of steriods to be take care of for a disease (can't remember the name, but similar to leukemia but not cancerous.) She decided to get an opinion from doc's in Az while visiting there, and guess what? They immediately started to treat her and cured her disease. She (a Canadian) was on a trip from Finland to check out Az because of the green card lottery, and they immediately started a long, expensive treatment for her. Our system doesn't work? She proceeded to attend school and became a physician's assistant and is living a very full life with her family. In Finland they really didn't know when her treatment would have started.
On the other hand, for 'general' issues (my baby born in Finland had 'baby asthma' issues), we were taken care of very well.
So what have we experienced in Finland as far as 'spreading the wealth'? In general, the people love looking for 'handouts' - there's a certain amount of money the government gives every month for each child in the family (equals about the same in the end as the tax credit per child here); if a mom stays home with kids in their preschool years, she receives a certain amount of money (not much.) But how does it work? The government takes their money in taxes and then gives it back as they decide fit. There are few people there who we know who work more than their 40 hours/week. It doesn't pay to work more, because the taxes are then way too much.
Here's an example of how great the system is: on guy was once bragging - his neighbor's family has x-number of children and the father has been unemployed for a couple years. The government takes care of him and his family. Of course they're not getting rich this way, but because he was laid off the govt. gives him xx money, his wife gets xx for staying home, they get xx for each child. So I asked the proud neighbor (who was telling me this) does he realize that as he is one of few who works a second job, HE is paying more than 50% of those wages in taxes so his neighbor can stay home? And what does this teach their children? That the government will take care of them!! I guess I'm different than the majority these days, but I don't want the government so involved. It doesn't work to make things 'fair' between people. There should be some incentive to work hard. There should not be much incentive to wait for the government to 'take care of us.'
Should I start on the abortion issue? I won't say much - but when people say 'what if someone happens to get pregnant?' Huh? Happens to get pregnant? Like they might just catch it from a public restroom toilet seat? I'm from a people who do believe sex before marriage is right, and once we get married we know it's very possible God may give us a family. So we prepare for that. I know for a fact that before that, I would not 'happen' to get pregnant. Is it easy to abstain? Not by any means. But I know it's possible!
I guess Obama didn't always give the same impression as far as partial-birth abortion. Though he may have said he doesn't support that, what does his track record say? But I'll say that as he has been elected president, I will respect him and pray that God will not allow him to make too extreme changes in our beloved America!
- November 08, 2008 8:39 AM
- Christine said...
For a much broader exploration of five different capitalist democracies, watch "Sick Around the World": http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/
For more information on the realities of poverty (emphasis on 'realities'):
"Irresistible Revolution"
"Discipleship Journal" (online, search the archives for "Poverty" - many good resources)
- November 08, 2008 8:57 AM
- Gioietta said...
I know how you feel, and I am not even a minister's wife! It is hard, I feel like I can't be completely honest and myself, so I just keep quiet most times when around my brothers and sisters, my extended family. It was hard to have so few to celebrate on Tuesday night, but I am so thankful that fear didn't win this election, but, can we say, hope and belief in our own ability to create a better life for ourselves AND others has won.
- November 08, 2008 9:33 AM
- Gioietta said...
About universal health care. No it isn't perfect, but I grew up with it and as far as I can tell, never bothered anyone. In fact many missionaries are blessed they can have it in the foreign countries they live in. I don't really remember 'waiting' much much longer than I have hear with insurance. And the point is this, no matter who you are, what you do, how much money or not you have, if you are born with a pre-existing condition, you will be seen and you don't have to be billed huge amount of money for a visit, that if you can't pay, than goes to the the hospitial insurace, that translates into everyone else's insurance premiums that go higher. I see health care as a BASIC need for everyone, just like education. Now if Christians will get together and pay for everyone's needs that is great, as well as providing education for all who need it. But will we bear that load willingly?
(PS my dh is a student, and I am on 'goverment' health care b/c we are expecting and very grateful. We wouldn't have had the money and never heard of anyone going up to the church with this need. Why?)
- November 08, 2008 9:42 AM
- Joni said...
Okay, I'm back here again! As for waiting in lines - for most general health issues, no you won't wait longer than here. But I know people, from living with that system, who HAVE waited. Example: a good friend's mother had serious heart issues - serious enough that it slowed her day-to-day life for seven years. She was waiting to have the heart surgery. Finally it became an emergency and they did the surgery, but for a short time before they went ahead with the surgery, they debated if she was by then too old (68 years old, I believe, at the time) and too sick to go ahead. I'm not suggesting by any means that our system is perfect. It's far from it. But do you know the biggest reason why our insurance costs are so high? Lawyers. They are more than ready to guide anyone with any small issue through the legal system to get money they 'deserve' (I'm not saying there's never a reason for lawsuit, but for sure there are many lawsuits that are ... greed.)
Do I believe in supporting charity? Absolutely. But not totally government controlled. As for m.a., w.i.c., medicaid, etc. They're wonderful programs. To help someone who really needs it. Hopefully they can eventually get on their feet again and not need the 'system', and of course some can't. That's okay. But let me assure you that the socialized system does breed ... some laziness ... people depending on the government to take care of them. It's great when the government can help. But I believe we're a stronger people when we truly have reason to try first to help ourselves. My hubby and I have each started a small business from the ground. Not easy, but it's a great feeling to support ourselves! I know we've been blessed in that way that we can live off our business' earnings. Will our incentive to work so hard change if we get to a certain level of income and after that we're providing someone else bread for their table while they sit at home? (Trust me, there ARE those who believe Obama is going to provide them with that!) You'd better believe it would change my incentive! Not that I don't want to help those who really need - I've been in that spot, too. And have really appreciated that assistance. But as soon we could we were back on 'our own two feet.'
I guess all-in-all, we all hope for the same thing. We want to remain living in a free country - we're very lucky that we can freely express our thoughts; may God grant our great country this freedom for many generations to come!
- November 08, 2008 12:12 PM
- Amanda said...
stir that pot Christine! haha... great post! I couldn't vote for Obama. check that, I wouldn't vote for Obama, but I'm not concerned that America is going to be completely changed in every way because of a new President that may or may not be able to accomplish all he said he would. when has a president ever been able to do that? People need to read into the actual powers of the President.
I'm proud of Obama and his family. I will never know what it means to black and see, literally see, someone that on the outside looks like me and that can happen. I'll be honest and say that I watched Oprah the other day (gasp! haha....) when Will Smith was on and listening to him talk about that moment brought tears to my eyes! I think we can all appreciate that this is a beautifully historic moment (uh oh... the historian is coming out in me) and that we can be proud of him and his family.
obviously this response has nothing to do with actual politics, but I just thought I would throw that out there.
have I told you that I loved you lately Christine? because I do :)
- November 08, 2008 3:53 PM
- mvaughn said...
Still a little lost on looking for a candidate that more closely resembles your family and your convictions. You want to help people, and you make sacrifices to do so. The McCains are huge supporters of foreign aid and aid orgnaizations, having even adopted children from an orphanage that Cindy McCain did aid work at. When it comes to putting this to practice, look at the numbers (from public tax records):
Joe Bidens
Over a 10 year period he and his wife earned $2,450,042, and paid a total of $3,690 to charity. That's 0.0015%.
Senator Obama's charitable giving: 2000 - 1%
2001 - 0.5%
2002 - 0.4%
2003 - 1.4%
2004 - 1.2%
2005 - 4.7%
2006 - 6.1% (presidential campaign begins)
John McCain's charitable giving:
2006 - 18%
2007 - 26%
I just fear we have given a man that is arguably the best public speaker in politics, and one that holds some very dangerous views, the most powerful platform in the world from which to promote those views. What is unthinkable today, will be commonplace to the next generation that grows up hearing about abortion and other topics in such a profound and eloquent way.
Alright, enough of this. I am dedicating this weekend to putting the election behind me and moving forward. I love a good debate, but the time for this debate is in the past. Tomorrow's task, how to best support our next president while still opposing policies or initiatives that counter our faith. I know that is something we can be in complete agreement on.
- November 08, 2008 3:58 PM
- familygregg said...
mvaughn: I think I like you ;)
- November 08, 2008 9:27 PM
- BHG & Co. said...
Howdy... another passer by.
I found a link here from a friend's blog with a similiar discussion.
All in all, both dialogues are being conduted with a great amount of respect.
Let me begin by saying I appreciate your heart and honesty. I am sorry that some see things in blue and red and assume that God is a republican.
There is one thing I would ask you to consider. Your frustration over(and even judgment of) those who would act as if you have sinned by this vote is to a degree justified. And it is completely understandable.
However, I have found that those on both sides feel the same way. Your post assumes that if people stopped trusting what the majority says and would think for themselves then they too would agree with you. You also assume that no republican could possibly care about the poor.
Like many of us do - Lord, knows I have my issues, you have fallen into the same trap for which you chastize others.
I only mention this because I feel as though you would want to know. Your care and thoughtfulness indicate you would never want to knowingly communicate these thoughts and feelings.
Just something to think about.
- November 08, 2008 9:48 PM
- Terroni said...
I'm still holding out for that post where you come out as a lesbian.
- November 08, 2008 10:39 PM
- Super B's Mom said...
Great post.
Although I voted differently, I appreciate the point you made about voting with your heart. Like many other Christians, I felt torn when Nov. 4th arrived.
Now that our President-elect has been chosen, I feel that others look down upon me for supporting him, although I didn't vote for him. I don't feel comfortable with the stand he takes on the most urgent issues, but I realize that as the leader of our country, he now deserves my respect.
This year, I voted with my heart and not as a Republican. God bless you for this insightful post!
- November 08, 2008 10:40 PM
- familygregg said...
bhg & co.
ditto to that
looooooooooooove christine
- November 08, 2008 11:13 PM
- Kristen said...
I knew you would come out of the closet eventually. About Obama, I mean ;)
- November 08, 2008 11:15 PM
- Christine said...
bhg & amp,
Thanks for stopping by. I appreciate you just taking the time in my neck of the woods.
I'm sad that you've made the inferences that you have. You see, I have yet to judge anyone on this planet. To judge means that you think yourself better. I'm not better than anyone - not a soul. In fact, that is exactly why I did not talk about my vote at all until after the election. When you elect one person to govern over a country the size of the US, well ... how can any of us find a candidate that is a perfect reflection of ourselves and our beliefs? It's not possible. Okay, maybe for a minority, but what I hear from many of us is that we had to really grapple.
I don't believe that Democrats have it all together (since you don't know me, you also don't know that I'm a registered Independent). I'm sorry that you take my humor as chastisement. It's my story. It's true, and it's raw. I did not think for myself for more than 30 years. That's my reality. I'm just confessing. Plenty of McCain voters think for themselves (Cammie, you still reading??).
No, I don't assume that anyone would vote the way I do if they just go against the flow. My friends that run a homeless shelter voted for McCain. We agree on many, many issues. Yet, the issues that are the most important to me are what led me to my vote. The issues that are most important to them, are what led them to their vote. Believers on both sides value what God values. Their priorities are God's priorities.
My point is that some of us are very conservative theologically - and voted for Obama. There wasn't a candidate that represented our Christ beautifully, nor - do I think - will there ever be.
I don't think those that voted for McCain sinned. I hesitated to ever share the things God and I have been discussing, because how do you do that and not come off as holier-than-thou? I guess, though, I felt it was important for those who gasp at a Democratic vote this time around. There is an enemy in our midst and he is delighted that Christ followers have drawn a line in the sand with one another.
This was for those who say they "just don't get it." They honestly believe that I have been duped, or for some reason, God has blinded my eyes for a time and a purpose ... or I'm a communist.
Nope. None of those.
I'm a lesbian. (happy, terroni?)
- November 09, 2008 8:01 AM
- BHG & Co. said...
Thanks for clarification. I never questioned your heart, just thought I would share a perspective on how that heart was communicated. I hope you could discern my intention (my last one or two paragraphs tried to make it clear).
Sometimes we don't see in ourselves those things that unwittingly trip us up. My comment was only meant to draw attention to a possibility of inconsistency.
Thanks for taking the time to reply.
- November 09, 2008 8:56 AM
- familygregg said...
bhg &co.
ditto to that. what....might....be communicated. and we all have trouble w/that....especially when conversations aren't happening on a cozy couch... face to face...where it's easier to hear hearts.
loooooooove christine.
- November 09, 2008 9:04 AM
- a Tonggu Momma said...
This evangelical Christian, registered independent, who never before voted for a Democrat, this year voted for Obama. You are not alone. And I do not feel that we sinned.
- November 09, 2008 9:39 AM
Hey Christine..Thank you for the blog..although I am not a pastors wife..lol..I must say that I totally agree with your views...glad that you had the conviction to post them!
- November 09, 2008 11:48 AM
- mvaughn said...
Looks like change may be swift, Obama's transition team is listing out executive orders he is currently considering, to enact change without having to wait for congress. On the short list of top considerations, lifting the ban on using foreign aid money to fund abortions overseas.
- November 09, 2008 11:40 PM
- mvaughn said...
Sorry, hit send too quick on that last post. It was not meant to be a statement, but a call for action. Let your congressmen and local DNC offices know that this is not a good move, and not the change that so many to crossed party lines in support of. If anyone is still manning the Obama campaign sites, go there too.
- November 09, 2008 11:44 PM
- Fun with the VanVeelens said...
Hmmmm as a Christian and a Republican, I must say I would MUCH rather give to missions myself than to have the government take my money and decide what they want to do with it. Sorry, I don't really agree.
- November 21, 2008 1:08 PM
I just read John Stossel's book "Give me a Break." Though he and I differ a great deal on moral issues, he has a lot to say about helping the poor. And it doesn't have to do with a welfare state. Good read - I highly recommend.
As far as Obama being a Christian, so is McCain, or claims to be. I certainly can't judge either heart. But Obama's clear misunderstanding of scripture (comparing OT liturgical and judicial law to God's timeless moral law) and his condescension to people of faith who "cling to guns and religion" indicate that he is, at best, an immature Christian.
Not that his religion matters much for office. What matters is his record. He has shown, and has promised, to appoint liberal activist judges. They will re-write the constitution, over time. It may be a generation before we see the full effect of this election.
And to the gentleman who suggested poor women are forced into abortion because of finances, and the woman who is afraid poor babies will be born and abused, they is lapping up the pro-aborts' favorite punchlines. Those babies can be adopted. Two million requests for adoption go unanswered every single year in the U.S. People who justify a pro-abortion vote always ignore the adoption option.
Obama has promised to sign FOCA. He promised this. FOCA will force faith-based hospitals to perform abortions, and will fund abortions with taxpayer money, and will erase every parental notification and informed consent law in every state in the union. If enslaving the masses in a welfare state is more important to you all than keeping a doctor from impaling a baby in the head, then I guess you made the right choice.
- November 25, 2008 12:49 PM
- Dana said...
Once there was a Church of Christ pastor's wife that cried as she sat reading a blog post about a Baptist pastor's wife that voted for Obama. Everything written by the Baptist pastor's wife looked oddly familiar. In determining her choice candidate for her vote, the cofc girl read everything she could get her hands on: The constitution, the health care plan, the tax rates during the previous administrations. She felt the need to be fully informed if she was going to vote differently than she had in the past and against so many people that she loved. She felt totally confident in the choice she had made and the vote that she made. But still, reading the Baptist pastor's post made her wonder if it wasn't the reason that she given herself, respect, that made her keep quiet about her voting but rather fear. The CofC Pastor's wife looked to the Baptist Pastor's wife with admiration and gratitude with hopes that she would one day have the same kind of courage.
- September 08, 2010 10:04 PM


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This beautiful piece of jewelry is created and designed by a professional jeweler. Our jewelers create each cremation pendant one at a time with a highest level of precision and detail possible.
The use of glue is recommend to permanently seal the pendant. We encourage using a modeling glue or epoxy to make a permanent seal.
- IMPORTANT: We do not do the engraving. Most local trophy shops will do the engraving if you bring in the item to them and drop it off. You might want to call around and get pricing on getting this item engraved in your community.
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It is easy to buy a home in the U.S, as there are no government restrictions on foreigners purchasing real
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