So after a day of fact-checking, heres what Ive learned. Five pastors - Castano, Hermida, Huynh, Riggle and Welch - were subpoenaed. They were subpoenaed because they are involved in a lawsuit against the city. Both Houstons Mayor, Annise Parker and the City Attorney (David Feldman) agree that the subpoena to pastors was overly broad. It was written by an attorney outside of the City Attorneys office and neither the Mayor or the City Attorney saw the subpoena before it went out. For more details, see the article below. I do not know the City Attorney, but I know our Mayor as a personal friend, and I believe what she says. In todays Mayors Press Conference she said clearly, People are rightly concerned if a government intentity tries in any way to inhibit religious speech. That was not the intent in this action. I believe she means what she says. And now, I want to make sure that my point is clear. Our city is an amazingly beautiful and diverse city. Our democracy, while imperfect, can be a great form of government. But, it only works when we listen to, honor and respect others - especially those who hold a view that is different than my own. The current culture of character assignation and innuendo, of taking half-truths and reporting them as if they are the whole truth, of demonization and polarization is not only undermining the efficacy of our government, it is threatening the very fabric of our community. I dont have any control over those who engage in the politics of demonization and polarization, but for myself, Im trying to live a different way. Im trying to listen to those with whom I disagree and honor their right to their views. I am trying to treat them the way I would want to be treated in the same circumstances. Im trying to enter into dialogue and discourse with respect and civility. When my point of view doesnt win in the political process, Im staying engaged without making the winners out to be bad people. When something someone else does something that makes me fearful, Im seeking to understand. I believe this is the path forward. Im doing my best to live into that way.
Posted on: Thu, 16 Oct 2014 00:31:11 +0000
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