Reading and Spirituality

My mother and grandmother are responsible for teaching me to read. Soon after I learned to talk, Mom taught me my ABC’s by using the ABC song. Before I turned four, Mom says I learned to read Little Bear by Else Holmelund Minarik, which was my first book. I remember Mom and Grandma always had more than enough books for us to read, but that did not stop me for begging for a new book every time we visited the local five and dime. I remember Grandma and Mom reading to my sister and I with expression and different voices for each character. Grandma also bought us a monthly subscription to Highlights magazine, which I loved. Once she had personalized books made for us. Other personal library books that I owned were the Dr. Seuss books, a Bible stories book, and several Little Golden Books. However, my favorite books were the Disney books that came with a thirty-three inch vinyl record. They were read along books that would ding when it was time to turn the page. I also remember my sister and I watched quite a bit of “Sesame Street,” “The Electric Company,” and “Zoom,” because Mom always had the television tuned in to PBS (there was no cable back then).

When I first began school, everything I learned from watching “Sesame Street” was reinforced at school. Our teachers had oversized air-filled letter characters from the show. We would listen to songs and stories featuring the letter of the week. Then, we would be given a coloring sheet with the letter on it and would color it in class. It would go home with us, and we would use magazines and catalogues to cut out pictures of items and people, which began with the featured letter. These were pasted on the coloring sheet and returned to school. Once we arrived, we were called in front of the class to explain what items were on our sheets. As I progressed in elementary school, I remember singing and singing. We would sing of stories we read, sing about grammar rules, and sing tongue twisters. The first readers I used were the Dick, Jane, and Spot readers. I also remember the very first time I was asked to diagram a sentence was in the third grade. My teachers read to us in class, and had each student to take turns reading aloud. Throughout school, I had both oral and non-oral book reports due in class. When we had an oral report over an autobiography, the teacher would have us to dress up like the character we had read and written about. Off-hand, the only instructional strategy that I did not enjoy much was writing the vocabulary sentences five times each. Due to there always being twenty words, I was often up past bedtime working on the sentences. Overall, the teachers seemed to believe that the way to get a child in my elementary school to learn to read was to use a lot of repetition, as well as to reinforce what we may have seen elsewhere.

There was not much to do when the weather was bad so we read the same books over and over again. Some of the ones I enjoyed most were the illustrated Bible stories that filled our library. I grew up reading these books, which I feel gave me a good Christian foundation to build upon. Literacy further strengthened this foundation, because I was able to sing hymns that were lesser known to me. Singing has always been my outlet, and songs help me work through problems and emotions that I may face. Today, reading impacts my spiritual life by bringing me even closer to life as a Christian. Through reading I get more of a sense of what my role as a Christian is in the world. Furthermore, reading has given me more of an outlook on where we have been as a human race and how far we have come. It also gives me insight into how much farther we have to go as Christians in this mixed up world that we live in. I also enjoy reading books on Christianity and faith, such as Pilgrim Heart and Extravagant Grace. This, too, gives me more insight into God’s will for us as Christians.

Insight is what I get most from reading. Therefore, I love to read and encourage reading in my home. My children and I choose short stories, which we read to one another at least once a week. I read a variety of materials, such as magazine articles, research articles, novels, poetry, plays, scientific magazines, books on faith, non-fiction (mostly historical), and even children’s books. Yes, I did say children’s books; I like to know what my children are reading. I have found if we have read the same book, it can help foster many discussions. I am fairly secure with my ability to read a variety of texts that affect my daily life.

Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes

Chris Crutcher’s novel Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes is a riveting novel about the pains of growing up both in a dysfunctional home and as an outsider in the teen scene. This touching story is packed full of believable characters and believable situations. It is a novel that often is considered for censorship, but is also a novel that could teach a great deal to young adults. It is a novel that can change the worlds of so many people who may need compassion and a helping hand.

For many young adults, growing up is painful, and compassion is difficult to find. According to Childhelp, an organization dedicated to meet the various needs of abused children, over three million cases of child abuse are reported each year. However, “experts estimate that the actual number of incidents of abuse and neglect is 3 times greater than reported” (Childhelp). This is a larger problem than many would like to admit, but Crutcher has done a great job bringing this issue to the forefront in this novel. Both Sarah Byrnes and Dale Thornton live with the problems, which arise from being raised in an abusive home. Sarah is a prankster who laughs at everything. Dale is a bully that passes on the abusive treatment he has received and learned from his father. They both have built up a wall between themselves and the world. Neither child has an adult they can trust, and they are both fully aware that telling what happens in their homes would only cause more trouble. As we learn more about Sarah’s father, it becomes quite clear why the child would fake a catatonic state.

Though it is hard for many people to understand why a child would rather spend time in a psychiatric hospital than their own home, people who have been in Sarah’s situation know when there is too much physical pain, a person will do almost anything to get away from it. Her situation is just as believable as every other situation in the book. Crutcher’s background as a therapist has served him well in writing this novel. Amazingly, Sarah does not pity herself the way she does the children who have the emotional and mental scarring inside; she does not believe she is like them. It is not until she writes the letter to Eric that she begins to realize that she acts tough and mean to hide her own pain. Sarah is not the only character whose true-to-life dysfunctional family is noticeable. Mark’s family, though not physically abusive, is just as dysfunctional than Sarah’s. Mark’s father pushes him so hard to be the perfect son that he makes bad decisions which leads to his suicide attempt. Though the father feels he is a good Christian man he has forgotten the words of his Messiah, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these” (Mark 10:14). The pressure from Mark’s father has deterred the young man from his Christian responsibility to uphold the rules set down in 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, which basically says we should not fornicate. Sure Mark can spin a fine yarn as he stands upon his pulpit preaching about the sins of abortion; however, he does not seem to be able to practice what he preaches. Is this situation believable? Yes, it is common for people to fail to be able to refrain from the sins they preach against. This is seen every day in newspaper headlines across the country.

Another situation that makes the novel believable is the situation with Carver. He goes after Virgil Byrnes and ends up beating him in a questionable bout of self-defense. Many novels give the happy ending to the hero that caught the ‘bad guy,’ but Crutcher does not give the happy ending we are expecting; Carver does receive some jail time. Another unhappy ending component is that Sarah’s mom refuses to save her daughter from ongoing pain and suffering, both physical and emotional. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, “Mothers are found to be the neglectful parent in 72% of neglect cases.” All of the other situations in the novel are believable as well. According to Contemporary Authors Online Chris Crutcher has said, “It is a joy to write a tale that is believable, that is real.” Crutcher goes on to state, “Working in the mental health field provides me with some unique perspectives on the human drama – how people get stuck and how they grow” (Contemporary). Crutcher’s novel Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes is unique because of this perspective that he feels so fortunate to have.

Although the characters are believable and the novel is unique, Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes is often considered for censorship. In 2005 a mother in Westmoreland, New York wanted the novel to be pulled from the high school curriculum due to its “graphic language.” Though she took her attempt to the school board the superintendent Toni Kulak stated, “We’re going to continue to use the book because we think it’s valuable to our students” (School, 20). Though the novel does have some strong language and the issues raised in the novel may make people a bit uncomfortable and on edge, the novel is a powerful novel about the hardships many young adults face. This novel can give a teacher of young adults many opportunities for class discussion. For instance, in a school with high pregnancy rates, a sexual education teacher could use the novel as an outlet for class discussion about the effects of unprotected sex and abortion. Similarly, in a school where bullying is an issue, the teacher can use the novel to spark discussion on how Sarah must have felt when she was called “Scarface” by her peers, or how Eric must have felt when people called him “Moby” or “Fatboy.” There are many other topics for potential discussion in the novel. Censoring a novel with so much potential for molding young minds into compassionate minds would be a critical mistake.

Though Crutcher’s novel is marketed as a novel for young adults, the novel is suitable for adults. This novel is packed full of believable situations that many people can relate to. It can be used to teach adults and young adults about the hardships of growing up in an environment that they may not have experienced. It can be a tool for young adults who are experiencing such living environments to realize they need to learn to trust other adults, and not all adults are bad. Furthermore, the book can be used as a valuable tool for every high school classroom. In conclusion, this novel is a powerful novel that can change the world of many adults, both young or old.

The Winds Which Stir Antonio

Though it does not play the most important role in Bless Me, Ultima by Rudolfo Anaya, wind does play a significant part in the story. Throughout this coming of age story, important changes become predictable through the wind. This symbol is used as both a foreshadowing tool, as well as a metaphor. When Anaya, mentions “wind,” the reader can rest assured that the story’s protagonist, Antonio is about to experience an event that will leave an impression on his soul. The type of wind that Antonio speaks of can also predict the nature of such events. The winds that stir Antonio strip away his innocence and help him to realize that he is in control of his destiny. They lead to spiritual growth and understanding. These winds gave Antonio a deeper understanding and knowledge than his peers.

In the first chapter, Anaya refers to the wind on two different occasions. The first is during the birth of Antonio, when his parents’ families feuded over the future of the newborn. However, when Antonio first meets Ultima, Anaya uses the wind in a more significant manner. To Antonio, this meeting was the beginning of the changes that were to come. He says, “She took my hand, and I felt the power of a whirlwind sweep around me” [italics mine] (12). From this point on, Antonio began to see the world in a new and exciting way.

Unfortunately, the winds in Bless Me, Ultima do not always bring forth enjoyable changes for the young boy. Though the wind brings changes that cause positive spiritual growth, they tend to do so in a more ominous manner. In chapter six, Antonio describes the dark, evil power of the wind or dust devils. All of Antonio’s acquaintances know the unnatural, evil power of these vicious winds; therefore, they ward the devils off with “the sign of the cross.” Out of curiosity, Antonio purposely does not ward off the dust devil and says after he was struck by the wicked wind, “its evil was left imprinted on my soul” (55). Afterward, Antonio takes his first step toward losing his innocence. He now enters school where he begins his long, tumultuous quest of learning.

More innocence is lost as Antonio’s family learns of a curse that has been put on an uncle, Lucas. He had happened upon the Trementia sisters, known witches, celebrating their black mass. During this encounter, the wind was dreary and cold, which gives a sense of death. The winds are just as menacing as Pedro, Antonio, and Ultima travel to free Lucas from his curse. All around the trio, a brutal dust storm violently rips through the landscape. The skies are dark. This gives the reader with an impending sense of doom and wickedness. The events that followed signified an important turning point in Antonio’s life. This was when Antonio first began to question God and his faith. Antonio could not understand how Ultima had the power to free Lucas from his curse, but God did not. This moment caused a struggle between faith and magic that would follow Antonio throughout the book. Another important event that lead to significant change and reinforced the struggle between magic and faith was the death of Narciso. Before his death, Narciso challenged the blizzard, or, in order to warn his friend, Ultima, of Tenorio’s threat on her life. This cold, fierce, blinding north wind was symbolic for the death that was soon to follow. However the death that coincided with the blizzard was not only the death of Antonio’s friend, but also the symbolic death of his admiration of his older brother Andrew.

Though other winds blow throughout the book, the winds in the final chapter bring an end to this particular journey in Antonio’s life. The winds here bring forth peace and clarity.  His father, for the first time, allows Antonio to be free to choose his future. He tells the young boy that he is descended from people “who held the wind as brother, because he is free” (247). His father goes on to tell him that his mother is from the earth and the two are often “at odds” with one another. Furthermore, the final winds in Bless Me, Ultima are mournful and serene, and they are even found in Ultima’s final words. She tells Antonio he will be able to find her in the gentle winds of the evening (261). This final change and final mention of the wind had brought Antonio closer to maturity than his peers. It left him stripped from his innocence and in control of his future.

Works Cited

Anaya, Rudolfo. Bless Me, Ultima. New York: Grand Central, 1972.

Tenacious Hospitality: Welcoming the Unwelcomed

The lecture was presented by Maleesa Breeding and Dana Hood with guest speaker Suzetta Nut. Dr. Hood explained the purpose of the lecture as how society places the people who are grieving on the margins. She stressed that the lecture does not give answers, but only generates more questions. The lecture is based on the ongoing grief parents of children with special needs face. The first question Dr. Hood asks the audience is how Romans 12:9-16 can teach us what God has called us to do. The section of the scripture she stressed is to be willing to “associate with people of low position.”

Next, Dr. Hood read some quotes from the people who are part of these families. This part of the lecture evoked an emotional response from both the audience and myself. To me, it was more personal. I have thought and said many of the words that were up on the screen and entered my ears. My son is a child with a disability. I felt a sense of relief to realize that I am not alone in my struggles.

After the voices of the families were discussed, Dr. Hood explained that these families are involved in a never-ending cycle of the five stages of grief: denial/isolation, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. I partially agree with this. However, as we later discussed in my special education class, most families do not go through an acceptance phase. It is more of a resolution/pro-active stage of grief. To reach acceptance is the same as saying overcoming. When a child is disabled, the family can never overcome or accept the disability; because it would mean that the disability will eventually end. The disability never ends, and the affected family must learn to deal with the disability through resolution. However, Dr. Hood did state that the five stages of grief model is “too simple.” She stated that many families are faced with a sense of hopelessness, especially at times of transitions.

The next section of the lecture focused specifically on Suzetta Nut, the mother of a child with a disability as well as a gifted child. Suzetta is the children’s minister at Highland Church of Christ. She said there is no end to disabilities; and because of this parents often learn to do things they never thought they could. Suzetta talked about the fatigue, financial, and emotional stress on the families. She stressed there is typically two ways that parents approach dealing with a child with special needs. They either act the victim, or they push through and pretend as if all will be well. Suzetta later introduces a third way that parents approach the issue. This approach is one that most parents take only after the other two approaches fail. This is when the parents reach an understanding that their child will never be like other children.

As I stated earlier, parents get to a point of resolution. The third approach of Suzetta Nut’s testimony is where the resolution stage happens. I personally have taken a pro-active approach on my most recent journey through the stages of grief. I have begun to question my previous decisions to try to make my son like everyone else through the use of medications. I realize now that my son was made by God and in the state that God has intended. Who am I to question that? Like Suzetta, I have told everyone to stop praying for my son to be better and just to pray that I can cope with the disability in a compassionate, loving manner. Just as Suzetta does, I also look as my son’s life and his accomplishments as a miracle of God. Suzetta’s experiences have reached me. I know that I can face anything as long as I keep faith in God, and remember that my son is a child of God.

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. ~ Romans 12:9-16

Violence in Children's Literature and Cartoons

Upon careful observation of the cartoons and stories that today's young adults were raised with, the conclusion has been made that present cartoons are not actually as violent as what today's parents are all lead to believe. The cartoons being shown today are amazingly tame compared to those that the 80s generation watched as children. In modern day cartoons, a character pulling out a gun and trying to shoot another as we all have witnessed Bugs Bunny and Elmer Fudd doing on many an occasion is unheard of. Nor is the racism that has often been shown in these cartoons seen. Nowadays, a starving coyote chasing after a bite to eat and hurling over the side of a cliff in the process is no longer created. In many opinions, these cartoons never once provoked violence. In turn, they reflected the violence and feel of the country at the time they were made.

As far as children's literature goes, no other tales could be as violent as the ones collected by the Brothers Grimm. The original versions were thought to be too violent and vulgar for American audiences and were later cleaned up to become socially acceptable. Through research, a couple of the original versions of the stories have been chosen and will be summarized.

The earliest version of Sleeping Beauty found was in 1636 Italy. Sleeping beauty follows today's story line fairly close until Talia falls dead from catching a splinter of flax under her fingernail. Her distraught father adorned the home as if it were a crypt and left Talia alone. A king happened upon the home in hopes of finding his prized falcon that he lost while hunting. Instead of the falcon, he found the beautiful young girl, which he raped. The king also left Talia behind. Nine months passed, and her lifeless body gave birth to twins, Sun and Moon. The babes would suckle on the still sleeping girl until one slipped off her breast and sucked on Talia's finger freeing the flax. Talia awoke. Meanwhile, the king, still haunted from the memory of his pleasure, went out with some of his men to find the girl once again. He was elated to find that Talia was awake and the mother of his children. The king had the three of them moved to his kingdom where he would frequently visit them. The queen became suspicious of the king's deeds upon hearing the king call out "Talia" in his sleep. The queen forced a servant to tell her about Talia. Furious, she had the cook to serve the king a lavish meal made from his offspring. After the king's meal, the queen had Talia brought in and stripped. The queen told the king of the contents of his meal and ordered Talia to be thrown in a bonfire. The king cried out as he was sickened by the thought of having dined on his young children. He ordered the servant to let Talia go and to burn the queen in her stead. The king also ordered that the servant that had betrayed him along with the cook to be burned. In an instant, the cook's wife explains to the king that the cook could not murder the young children. She went to her home and retrieved them sparing her husband's life. Talia and the king later married, and they all lived happily ever after. The moral to the story is: leaving your sleeping daughters at home alone can result in her rape. However, Talia was pretty lucky in this story. Other fairy tale girls weren't so lucky.

Little Red Riding Hood was a French tale in which the earliest version was put to paper in 1697. This story pretty much stays along the story line that we all know today, however there are some gruesome, vulgar differences. Little Red Riding Hood was the most beautiful girl in her region. A wolf saw her on a journey to her grandmother's house to deliver a basket that her mother had prepared. He approached her and tricked her into telling her destination. The wolf took a short cut through the woods. He tricked the grandmother into letting him in and he devoured her. Upon her arrival, Little Red Riding Hood let herself in. She called out to her grandmother. The wolf answered that he was in the bedroom and felt ill. Little Red Riding Hood went into the bedroom, removed all of her clothing and crawled into bed with the wolf. They went through the entire 'what big' bit. However, instead of 'what big legs you have', she said, "what a big penis you have." He in turn said, "the better to have sexual intercourse with." They then had sex. Upon completion, they started back up with the 'what big' bit. She got to the teeth and he eats her. The end! That is it, no more. There was no hunter with an axe to rescue her and her grandmother. The moral to the story is: young women beware and leery of gentlemen that you do not know. They could be wolves in sheep's clothing.

Now, these stories did not cause people to become violent, instead they warned young women of the dangers of everyday life. Had the stories remained the same, could it be possible that the outcome of the violence in the world could be different. Young women today have no fear in them. They walk alone down city streets never to be seen or heard from again. If the stories remained as their originals, parents would be more leery of leaving their children at home alone. They would walk alongside their children in city streets. There would be less abductions and in turn a reduction of violence. Instead, today, young women are taught that they do not need anyone and can do everything on their own and by themselves. This is not an entirely bad message to put out to them. However, because our children are sheltered from the possibilities of violence in this world, they are being put at greater risk. Be honest with your babes and let them know what can happen if they do not take proper precautions. Also, make sure you always know where they are going and whom they are with. Fear is not a bad thing. It does not tend to make one weaker, in turn it can make you wiser. A wiser person is a stronger person.

Research done via An Underground Education by Richard Zacks.

Grandmother

I grew up in the 70s and remember what life was like then. I was told by my parents, since I could pass for white (my mom is of the Creek nation), to tell everyone that I was white. Our lineage was to be kept a secret to all of our friends, and neighbors. My greatest teacher was my grandmother who had a store as the town people put it, "on the wrong side of the tracks." I stayed with her after school, while my mother worked. We were there until grandma closed the store. Her compassion to all of the different races of people that came in her store touched me. I honestly do not know if Grandma ever made a profit. She fed the hungry when they needed food. She clothed them when they needed clothes. If they did not have money to pay, she helped them anyway. She was the hands and feet in our small town that ensured the survival for many of God's children. And, she was my greatest teacher.

Changing Lives

If we can show a child that we care today, we can change his life tomorrow. If he chooses to learn and live from our example, he will help others in the same way. It is important for us to all remember the future repercussions of our actions. How we react in many situations, affects everyone who witnesses our actions.

Teaching Through Christ and In The Classroom

I am going into teaching high school language arts. It has always been my dream to teach, especially to those who face many disadvantages. This is very important to me because of the disadvantages that I have faced in my lifetime. It was a teacher that gave me the self-confidence to make it through the teenage years. It was a teacher that helped me to believe that I am worth something in this world. It was a teacher that gave me the strength to get through an abusive relationship, the loss of a child, and my other hardships. It is that same teacher that carries me when I am too weak to find my way.

I plan to work either in a Title I school, a school on a reservation, an adult education program, or in a school for children with special needs. I have many reasons why I have chosen to focus future on these types of schools. First, Title I schools are those where the highest percentage of students live below the poverty line. I come from a long line of generational poverty and know that these kids need someone to believe in them. Second, a school on a reservation will be a wonderful place for me to work. My family is of the Creek Nation. I can relate to these children and many of the hardships that they face. Third, an adult education program is a field that has drawn my attention. Neither of my parents graduated high school, nor did my husband or my siblings. For a matter of fact, I am the only person in my family who has graduated from high school. It was the adult education programs that my family members attended that gave them the chance for a successful future. Last but certainly not least, I would like to teach at a school for children who have special needs because my son and my uncle both have benefited from such programs. Furthermore, I know that an education is the only thing that cannot be taken from you, but is the one thing that all people should receive and need.

As Matthew 18:10 states, "See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven." It is in my power to show compassion for all of God's children, even the big ones. I feel that educating a person is the key to helping them out of poverty and providing them a successful future. Through education, I can reach out to children who are marginalized and give them the opportunity to be viewed as equals of all mankind, the way that Jesus does us. Unfortunately, it is important to remember, though I cannot mention Christ in the classroom; I can be a good role model by living the life of Christ. In order to deal with the challenges of working as a Christian in the public school system, I must be sure to reach out, not only to the kid that is active in the classroom, but also to those who sit in the corner with their heads down. All of God's children need at least one person on Earth who believes in them. I should strive to become a reflection of Jesus, the great teacher who has reached out to all of us. As a future teacher, it will also be important for me to remember to see the good in each child, and let him know I believe in him. I am an extension of Christ. I am his hands and feet in this world, and I am also a student, who is still learning each and every day.

Christ In the Classroom

It is in my power to show compassion for all of God's children, even the big ones. It is important to remember though we cannot mention Christ in the classroom; we can be a good role model by living the life of Christ. We must be sure to reach out, not only to the kid that is active in the classroom, but also to those who sit in the corner with their heads down. All of God's children need at least one person on Earth who believes in them. As future teachers, it will be important for us to remember to see the good in each child, and let them know we believe in them. We are an extension of Christ. We are his hands and feet in this world, and we are also students still learning each and every day.

Personal Mission Statement

I will be as kind to others as I wish them to be to me. I will even be kind to those who are not kind to me. I will be merciful and forgiving. I will show compassion for all around me. This compassion will spread from me to my children. Compassion will be my legacy to them and future generations.

I will make sure those around me have a fulfilling life. I will give those around me a chance at a future that I was never given. I will not dwell on my sordid past. Instead, I will use it as a teaching tool. The problems I have had in the past are not a curse, but are a blessing. They are what have made me into who I am today.

I will let those I love know that I love them. I will love those around me the way I wish them to love me even if they don’t. They will never have to guess how I feel for them.

I will work to keep peace with God. I will not suppress my spirituality or the spirituality of those around me. I will find peace with myself.

I will always fight for freedom of expression, freedom of the mind, and freedom of the ties that bind one's mind. I understand without these freedoms, people lose their individuality and their identity. I will stress to children how important it is to be an individual. I will always be considered eccentric, because I love my individuality. I will make everyone I know feel special in their own little way. I will do this, because we are all special in our own little ways.

I will always be passionate about what is important to me.

I will always try new and amazing adventures.

The Children Are Innocent

“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.” (NIV Matthew 7:15-20)

I wonder, today, how Fred Phelps, an American pastor heading the Westboro Baptist Church, an independent Baptist church based in Topeka, Kansas, must feel. He has preached his hate speeches over and over again and his church has picketed many, many funerals. The Westboro Baptist Church has planned to picket the funerals of the children, who lost their lives to the gunman at the Sandy Hook school. Phelps claimed that the children's lives were taken because Connecticut has legalized gay marriage. The website boasts, "The dead children of Sandy Hook Elementary are better off dead than to continue being raised for such great wrath and destruction as you have brought to this land. There is no hope for any child of this nation outside of Westboro Baptist Church. You have a duty to teach your children to fear God or else leave them to desolation, darkness and destruction."

What you will not read about when reading releases from the Westboro Baptist Church is the shooting that took the lives of two law abiding police officers, Corporal David Gogian and Jeff Atherly, who lost their lives in an attempt to prevent an possible massacre at a local grocery store in Phelps own home town of Topeka, Kansas. So I ask, Mr. Phelps, what are the citizens of Topeka being punished for? Is it the hate speeches that spew from your own mouth, the likes of which lead to more violence and more hate? What wrong did the innocent officers and innocent families of the officers who died commit? Why did God see it fit to punish these two men?

I do not understand the logic of attacking victims of violent crimes and saying they deserve to be victims due to the actions of others. Innocent children do not have the right to vote; and though the lives of twenty children in the Sandy Hook school were taken, each and every child in that school and that community have been victimized. What did Jesus teach us about children? Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (NIV Matthew 19:14)

The Jesus I follow is the Jesus that teaches love and compassion. He does not condone the killing of the innocent for any reason. Apparently, the Jesus I follow is not the Jesus that Phelps follows. The only conclusion is that they are two separate beings. What I find the most perplexing about Phelps’ teachings is that he is a former Civil Rights activist.

Today, Americans are coming together to have Fred Phelps and his followers recognized as what they are, a hate group. A petition has been initiated and signed by 132,167 Americans as of yet. I had checked the site just a little less than an hour ago, and the petition had only 127,303 signatures. Other Americans have joined the group, Anonymous, which has sent out the following video publicly (I am not associated with Anonymous in any way):

Unfortunately, Fred Phelps is not the only pastor who is preaching hate-filled messages to evangelical congregations. Another pastor spewing hate is Sam Morris, of Old Paths Baptist Church in Fayetteville, Tennessee. Although the Old Paths website claims, “We believe in the separation of the church and its members from worldliness, apostasy, heresy, or any questionable habits that would tarnish our Christian testimony or bring reproach to the name of Christ,” Morris complained about the call for tough gun control laws [italics are mine]. He went on to state that “I guarantee you there’s at least six or seven guns in this place [Old Paths Baptist Church] right now. Amen.”

Amen? To be a Christian is to follow the law of Christ, not to pick and choose which law you choose to follow. What need does a pastor have to facilitate the possession of a firearm? Did Jesus not teach us to turn the other cheek? Had I been sitting in the pews when so much hate was being bellowed through the air, I would have committed myself to never walk in the doors of the Old Paths Baptist Church, Fayetteville, Tennessee again.

So, Morris, how do you view arming yourself against the brothers and sisters Jesus teaches us to love? What do you think Jesus would say had he heard you spouting so much hate in the church? I do not see what need an evangelical pastor has in owning a firearm to protect himself from both Christians and non-Christians alike. There is no need for a pastor to even hunt for food, as food is widely available and far cheaper than hunting licenses; and the needs of the family of the pastor are met by the tithe given by parishioners  Where is your faith, Morris? My Christ and Morris’ Christ must be two different entities, which is the only explanation I have been able to find for our differing opinions on owning firearms.

I am not against owning firearms on the whole; for had it not been for my father’s guns, my siblings and I would have often gone without meat growing up. I am against having military grade automatic and semi-automatic weapons when you are not in the military. No one needs to agree with my opinion, as it is mine alone, and I have the right to my opinion as well as voice that opinion.

My Christ teaches us to love, not hate. My Jesus taught us, “For this is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another. Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil and his brother’s were righteous. Do not be surprised, my brothers and sisters, if the world hates you. We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love each other. Anyone who does not love remains in death. Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life residing in him. This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.” (NIV 1 John 3:11-16)

Morris’ sermon included, “that authorities should take the body of the suspected shooter, ‘and string him up in public and set his body on fire and leave it out there to let the birds pick his bones.’” This is hate. “Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer,” Jesus taught us. To say that this man’s family should have to suffer even more than they already are due to not only his actions, but also the loss of him, his mother, and the people he killed on Friday is hate. Did Morris forget that the shooter was human? Did he forget that the families that are in turmoil are already suffering? Did he forget that Jesus loved all men, women, and children, especially those marginalized due to their differences including mental illness? I could never imagine how it feels to be the parent of the children and adults that lost their lives and to hear that I am being blamed for someone stealing the life of my loved one away. Does Morris even understand the meaning of the word ‘respect?’

I do not and cannot believe that my Jesus would call for the death of innocent children due to what is taught in the school. Morris believes, “the number of mass shooting were escalating because of schools were government ‘mind-control centers’ that taught ‘junk about evolution’ and ‘how to be a homo… And I want to tell you what evolution teaches - here’s the bottom line - that you’re an animal. That’s what it teaches. So, you’re an animal, you can act like an animal. Amen.’”

Amen? What do small children, the eldest being seven years of age, have to do with what is being taught in their schools. They are not the ones who passed laws, nor are they the ones that have mandated what is to be and is not to be taught in the schools they attend. For a matter of fact, it is the teachers’ responsibilities to teach what they are required to teach in the school. It is the parents’ responsibilities to teach what they want their children to believe and not believe out of the school. There is no crime or sin that calls for the death of innocent children and adults.

The website for Old Paths Baptist Church, Fayetteville, Tennessee goes on to say, “All of our teachings come from the King James Bible. This way we know that we will have unity in doctrine and spirit. Because our doctrine comes straight from God, we do not apologize for our beliefs and standards. Whenever a person gets offended at Bible preaching it is because of a spiritual problem on the part of that person.” Well, I am offended by the beliefs and standards of this church if they do not teach love and acceptance, as Christ has taught us to do. If that means I have a spiritual problem on the part of myself, then so be it. I say; I do not remember reading doctrine that condones the murder of an innocent child in Christ’s teachings.

I do find that the children will be punished for the sins of the father. However, even Exodus 20:5, Exodus 34:6-7, Deuteronomy 5:9, and 1 Corinthians 15:22, that calls for the sins of the father being put on the child, scripture does not mention the death of the child due to the father’s actions. The Bible does cover the death of children according to their fathers’ sins in the following manner: "Fathers shall not be put to death for their sons, nor shall sons be put to death for their fathers; everyone shall be put to death for his own sin.” (Deuteronomy 24:16) “The person who sins will die. The son will not bear the punishment for the father’s iniquity, nor will the father bear the punishment for the son’s iniquity; the righteousness of the righteous will be upon himself, and the wickedness of the wicked will be upon himself.” (Ezekiel 18:20)

I Will Wait for the God of My Salvation

Prophets are people who have to bring things from all parts of the world and weave them together. The worst things that can happen to us, happens in our families; and we wait. God is the creator; he created us. His people immigrated, and they were enslaved. Through Moses, they were freed. His people were forgiven, healed, and followed his leadership. God brought us Jesus, and he was crucified and resurrected. Jesus loves the poor, hungry, and children who buried their parents. He loves the starving people, homeless, and those who have babies born in stables. With God, all things are possible. God forgives all people, even the worst of us. We must be humble and be the best Christians that we can be. For now, though, we wait for justice and righteousness.

The Faith Community’s Response to Child Sexual Abuse

More Protestant members have sexually abused children than in the Catholic Church. There is less in the clergy, but more among the members - teachers, Boy Scout leaders, Disney workers, pornographers, foster families, and yes, church leaders. Adults attending ACU who were sexually abused as children is equal to or exceeds nationwide levels. One in six men and one in four women report a history of sexual abuse. The incidence rate is only that of reported cases. If you google “child sexual abuse and the church” there are over 18,400,000 results. Googling “sex” yields more results than Jesus, 38,000,000. Many perpetrators will not abuse their children, but will abuse other children. The numbers of false allegations are less than 4% and usually revolve around a disputed custody case.

Sexual abuse includes: fondling, oral genital contact, vaginal/anal intercourse, forcible rape, exhibitionism, forcing to watch pornography or sex acts, obscene phone calls, and verbal comments. Most child sexual abuse is not discovered until at least a year after it first occurred. Normally if a child reports abuse at a young age and nothing is done, they will never report again. A child may be physically abused and neglected before the age of three is unable to retrieve the information. The typical impact of sexual abuse is post traumatic stress disorder, sexualized response – they lose their sexual innocence and may act out sexually with other children, or they may be behavioral problems and negative affectivity. If you do not report suspected child abuse, you have committed a crime, no matter who you are. Because of the increase in molestation, sexual abuse is covered widely by the media.

There are no prevention methods because the abuser is usually someone that the child trusts, and there is no psychological profile for perpetrator abuse. There are, currently, no recognized symptoms or diagnostics for child molestation. The church response was to often sweep it under the rug, don’t talk about it, and return child to their abuser. Furthermore, asking a child what happened does not work; it does no good and is actually a bit voyeuristic. Some church leaders will place the child in a meeting with the abuse, so the child, most often, will recant because of intimidation. One could easily speculate that perpetrators say they are sorry only because they have been caught, but most cannot be rehabilitated. If a child is removed from their home and put in a foster home, the child is being punished, not the perpetrator. Treatment takes years before the family should even consider reunification.

The Church’s attitude is usually tied to the word of Jesus, “forgive,” or “turn the other cheek,” “God’s will,” or “Honor your father and mother.” The church’s attitude to child sexual abuse must be changed. Presently, because of the way molestation cases are being handled by the church and the community, the child feels as if they are the perpetrator, and the abuser is the victim.

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (NIV Matthew 19:14)

Erikson's Theory and Christianity

I find there are three stages in Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development where faith can play a significant role in social development. During the Identity vs. Role confusion stage, adolescents are trying to find their identity and fit in to society. They hope to do so in a positive manner. They also begin at this stage to start thinking more philosophically and spiritually.

Through their ability to become devoted to friends and causes, they may find themselves joining a peer group that has a Christian background. This gives many a feeling of identity. This is also the stage that most adolescents’ faith is being tested. If their peer groups are delinquents, or they have developed an inferiority complex from the previous stage of development, they may find themselves becoming delinquents as well.

The next stage that I feel faith may contribute to the emotional and social development of the individual is the Generativity vs. Self-absorption or Stagnation stage. Many individuals in this stage begin to teach their children about their culture, if their culture is a Christian culture, the individual may want to pass their ideals on to their children. They begin to look at the bigger picture. In other words, they no longer see the world as a place that holds them as the epicenter, but now may see the world as much bigger than them. They want social change and to help their brothers. They usually turn to faith to find the answers on how to help.

On the other hand, if the person is more self-absorbed, they do not see the world in the same way. They may want to strive to help only themselves. Their end goal may be material, even if they feel that they are faithful, or Christians, they may be more devoted to the capitalist dream than to Christianity. The final stage that I feel faith may play a big part in is the Integrity vs. Despair stage. We all learn at a young age that death is inevitable. Whether you have faith in an afterlife or not often determines whether you fear death or not. A person with a lack of faith may fight death all the way, but those with a strong sense of Christianity, may be more accepting their inevitable fate.