Think of me as a Culture War draft dodger. That’s right, I’ve successfully avoided enlisting in the Great Culture War of this century. It is my firm and unyielding position there is no reason to fight and scrap with fellow Americans. Period. There, I’ve said it.
This is especially true for Christians- there isn’t a single Bible verse that says argue and fight with those who don’t share your opinions. There is no place for hate and there is certainly no place for using our words to tear down, make fun of, mock, belittle or demean other people (much less lie). This includes political discussion. In fact, we’re told the opposite, but this isn’t the place to make that point.
Disagreement doesn’t mean the answer is found by coming to blows. The opinions of others in a multi cultural society can never be reconciled by a slugfest and further, conquest doesn’t necessarily mean you are right. Resolving our differences doesn’t require a fight first.
Mom taught us a better way. I think back to my high school football days. There were guys on the team who loved to fight. They looked for a fight at every high school dance. We would say they were “spoiling” for a fight.
There are many people today “spoiling for a fight”. But I ask the question, “Why?” Why do you want to fight in the first place? Why are you so angry the only answer you can find is a fight? And sadly, many of those spoiling for a fight don’t realize they are being manipulated and controlled by outside forces.
But I’m swerving dangerously close to talking and discussing politics, which I’ve sworn off. I’m not at war, remember? My point in this blog is there is something we should do as civic minded citizens- we should vote. An election is coming our way in just a few weeks.
Vote for those represent your opinions, that’s fine. But also keep in mind, sometimes we must vote for what is best for the nation rather than for what is best for us. Sometimes voting means sacrifice because we have a responsibility to engage and consider the needs of our fellow citizens when we vote.
When you think of voting in that light- it is actually quite hard to vote and it’s a heavy responsibility. But in the end, it is an obligation we take on as American citizens. So, to wrap it up, I encourage you to vote, vote your convictions. Don’t fight, vote instead.
Ernie