There are many times in Human history when the actions of a few can change the very destiny of life. I do think one of those times is now. No one person or group has all the answers. However allow me to offer some clarity on a topic of note.
Religious freedom is a very important value that should be upheld by law. It is a personal right, not a group one. This must be understood.
Any individual is entitled to follow the spiritual or religious views they hold dear. This right: however, extends only to you. The misguided belief that society must follow your belief is incorrect. We are a people made up of many.
The multitude of us may be of different ethnic, cultural, and religious origins. There is enough room for all to be who they choose and follow their hearts. When we choose to serve only some we choose to deny others their freedom.
I know there are many here in the U.S. and around the world who seek to define their societies by religious views. Society is not a theocracy. Society is Human! We are all different and we are all free. The first path into darkness is to take away the freedom of others.
When you begin to deny others you begin to hurt. You begin to hurt others. You begin to hurt yourself. Just as assuredly as you seek to bring your will across society you open up others to bring their will unto you.
There is an old saying if you take an eye for an eye, soon enough the whole world is blind. We must value, lift up, and love all. It is a sacred tenet. Only then do we see others as equals. Only then do we see value.
Religious freedom is and always has been personal. Freedom of religion must also include freedom from it. For all people must come to God on their own. If they choose not, that to is their choice.
The argument that society is falling apart due to change is misguided. The truth is people have for to long become lax on their own principles. If you see failings first look upon yourself. We did not get here alone.
The Human journey is about all of us. If you find value in your beliefs and you uphold them, live them, others may find value as well. Failing to embrace, maintain, and live a belief system is not an excuse to dictate to others. The only way to win religious freedom is to make it valuable.
If you do not value the whole you value no one. If you value no one I mourn you. Living in darkness is a painful and scary place. Good things and good people get lost.
I find it funny just as in Lord of the Rings, the beacons must be lit. We stand against the darkness, each a beacon. I have raised my beacon this day. Will you honor the call? Will stand against religious hate. Will stand against atheist hate? Will you stand against groups and laws that hurt?
We are all one regardless of how some tell you it is us vs. them. We are all valuable. We are all deserving of love. Gather in the light and tell your story. Only then do we see one another. Only then do we hear each other.
One light now stands in the darkness. I know many others are out there. Let's see if we bring the world into day.
Love is Never Wrong!
