Of Ducks And Such

 

 

“Some old wounds never truly heal, and bleed again at the slightest word.”
― George R.R. Martin    

 

 

 Every so often a situation occurs that literally divides our nation. The issue can be so volatile that it breaches races, political affiliation, and even long term friendships. If anyone has watched television over the last several days I think we will all agree that the "Duck Dynasty's" Phil Robertson has accomplished such a division because of his inflammatory comments in a recent GQ magazine interview. In the interview Robertson, (who claims to be an evangelical preacher), expressed his beliefs against homosexuality and a host of other carnal acts. Of course, he backed his words up by semi-quoting from the Bible. And as if that wasn't enough, Mr. Robertson went on to say how blacks were "happier" working in the cotton fields and singing and that they were better off before the Civil Rights movement. (Even now as I type this I can't believe this was actually said in this day and age). 

 

  Update: It has been nearly 30 minutes since I began this blog but I was interrupted, (in a good way), by a telephone call from a dear friend in Kentucky. She is a middle-age white woman with whom I worked with while employed with the VA in Louisville. She is, and has always been, a unique woman and friend and she has visited our home and kept in touch via birthday and Christmas cards.

 

  I say the interruption was a good one because I was so livid; no, I was incensed with all the Duck Dynasty controversy and I was prepared to rant on about it. However; I am so glad God knows what we need and when we need it. She and I talked about our families, retirement life and of course, the Duck mess. She said that she simply turns the channel when that controversy comes on because all it does is bring you down.  "Besides", she continued, "they are just a bunch of rednecks." My anger was immediately diffused.

 

  It is well known and documented that America has a horrible problem with racism. I really learned this to be true when I joined the military. But I do not attempt to go on a crusade to convert the haters into "lovers of all men." I had to learn that this was not  even possible from the pulpit. Today I just take my own small piece of the world and do the best I can with the few relationships I have.

 

  I pray for a swift end to this Duck Dynasty mess and even more so that true friendships will not become a casualty of this war.

 

  God bless,

   Dennis