WORDS: Fear is common denominator

The controversy about “Add the Words” need not be a controversy at all. Yet it has become one between the religious community and the LGBT community.

Why did this ever come about? The answer is fear. The LGBT people feel that they are being discriminated against. They fear they will never be accorded the rights that other citizens have. But in their fear of discrimination against themselves they attack the rights of faith-orientated people.

The Religious Community believes that their freedom of religion is being assaulted by activists seeking to destroy religion and establish an anti-religious society. They fear that the “politically correct” mind-set of our politicians undermines and threatens every religious conviction and constitutional right.

Christianity is the predominant religion in our community. Christians have often been accused of hatred because they oppose SPECIAL rights for gays. Although there are numerous branches of Christianity, they all profess to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ, who taught us to love our enemies and to do good to those who hate us. No true follower of Christ hates gays. We are told to hate the sin but love the sinner — just as Jesus did.

It’s true that some who claim to be Christians are that in name only and do not walk the walk, but react to perceived threats just as many secular persons would, with anger and bitter accusations. However, I do not know any Christians (and I know many) who are against the LGBT community having equal rights in such things as housing, employment, promotions, etc. In fact, many Christians, myself included, have relatives who are gay. We still love them and do not want to see them discriminated against.

I have said all that to say this: The LGBT community have put themselves in the position of adversary of all those who wish to protect their religious rights. They need to consider the rights of others, as well as their own. So far, they have only considered their own. If they would do this then the opposition would just melt away.

Taking away the rights of one group to accord special rights to another is reverse discrimination which, in the end, erodes freedom for all. Our Legislators are willing to look at alternative legislation that will ensure the rights of all. Let’s, ALL encourage them to do so. We are all Americans and should work together for the benefit of all.

ED TORRENCE

Coeur d’Alene