I believe that there are many people who follow their religion and teachings and are fine upstanding people. Many of those who helped me along the way were faithful Christians. And there were many who were not what I would call shining examples of their faith.
Generally, we face the gambit of bigotry from those who may call themselves Christians. I honestly believe that they do these things in ignorance and are grasping for a way to justify their own insecurities. So... they'll use their religion from which to base their filth. Power mongers will use any tools available to reach their goals. If they can harness the blind hatred based in twisted religious views, they will sieze it and use it. We do see religious organizations who do this as a matter of course.... but again not all.
There are many definitions of "Christian". I think that a true Christian would follow his teachings, turn the other cheek in all cases, and would allow himeself/herself to be crucified rather than to fall into the pit of hatred and resolve to kill defending their beliefs.
There aren't many true Christians out there to be sure. But they are there. And they can be some of our best supporters. You can be sure that I fight against the negative aspects typically associated with religion in general. It doesn't matter which sect it is. I don't associate with any religion. But I can not in good conscience denigrate ANY group of people by their beliefs, especially when those beliefs are defined as full of love and charity. Hatred is a separate and non religious emotion. Those expressing hatred have beliefs that say one thing yet they do another. This is not a fault of their faith. It is a problem with their implementation.
Many of us have been hurt by those pretending to represent the views of Christ. And the backlash can be extraordinary. For years, I was very angry and dismissed religion as a matter of course. I became an atheist. Over the years however, my backlash has quelled. I still haven't decided if I'm still an atheist or not
Those who have offended me will continue to do so. There is nothing that I can do but move on and live my life. Where possible, legal and political actions can have a positive effect. And you can be sure, I'll be there to lend my support.
But I need to accept those who are sincere in their beliefs. I would hope that we all can. To be clear, I can not condone intolerance, bigotry, and hatred in any form. But those who can follow the tenants of their faith and walk the path of peace.... I'll gladly accept with open arms.
So... does "Christian" equal "A peaceful and loving person"? Where that is true, I can agree. I doubt Christ would want anything more.
Chin up
Cindi
