6/21/2024

JRB,

            How is debate prep going? Getting your talking points down? Practicing deep breathing to control your temper? How about preparing your spirit? Are you praying for 45?

My Friends & I believe that, even though he says & does despicable things, there is that of God in him. I encourage you to try showing some love for him at the debate. You’ll be surprised by the outcome.

            I am reminded of Ronald Reagan (RWR) & Jimmy Carter (JEC) ‘s debate in 1980 when RWR said, “There you go again” sounding like he was correcting his misguided son with loving condescension. The expression is memorable not so much for its contents, but for the friendly, cheerful way it was delivered.

            I am not suggesting that you put on an act, instead I am encouraging you to find the place in your heart that can love 45. I know it’s hard. I’ve been working on it for 8 years. It’s especially difficult because he exudes hatred & anger. You can even declare to the world that you are called by your faith to love your enemy & invite 45 to do the same. That will appeal to his group of fans who follow Jesus’ teachings.

            SPOW, according to today’s WP, religiosity in American is dwindling. Philip Bump writes that putting the 10 Commandments in classrooms isn’t going to address that. The CSM notes “many churchgoers formed new habits during the pandemic & never made their way back to the pews,” with this trend being most prevalent in the Black community. Rev. Torion Bridges explains, “We have turned into silos of self instead of communities of care.” That makes me sad!

            Do you think religion contributes to divisiveness? Do you think the Rohingya have been persecuted due to their beliefs or their ethnicity? Whatever the case may be, since they do not have a place to call home anymore, let’s provide them with refuge here. If you need convincing of their profound suffering, you can read “The impossible life of Myanmar’s Rohingya refugees” in today’s AJ.

            BYBS,