This one I am particularly proud of: it is a response to Byron Beck (Willamette Week's Queer Window) branding all Christians homophobic gay bashers.
I'm sure Byron Beck is a very nice man, I've never met him. I am also sure that in his recent article regarding going "back in the closet" he was referring specifically to the intolerant and bigoted Christians and not the entire population. It's just a symptom of the air regarding religion among the hipster, too-cool-for-God population of Portland (not hatin' on PDX, I'm a native). It's gotten so I'm afraid to admit I believe anymore, because I don't want to be lumped in with the bible-thumpers. Now there are quite a few points on which they and I disagree, but as it pertains to Byron Beck, the Defense of Marriage Council does not speak for me, and frankly, I don't think they speak for Jesus. At issue is whether or not Jesus (or God) approves of homosexuality, and if that approval is grounds for crusade for legislation. The visible religious right claim that it is reprehensible in the creator's eyes (although I'm not sure I agree) but EVEN if that were the case, their crusade for prohibitive legislation is entirely contrary to the message Jesus preached, one of tolerance, love, and understanding. The distinguishing factor of Jesus' brand of tolerance as opposed to all the others that have been offered was the unique idea that we show tolerance and patience with what we DON'T understand. I believe that is also, incidentally the foundation of the first amendment, but that's another argument. I'm quite convinced that even if- especially if- Jesus (or God) disapproved of homosexuality (which, again, I'm not sure is the case) he would still support the RIGHT of gays, lesbians, and any consenting adults to live and let live. Jesus supports GAY RIGHTS. PS Can the Blazer's catch an f'ing break?
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