There was a Bible study a few years back entitled “Boundaries”. It was so popular in the conservative Christian world that it spawned several additional studies specific to parenting, marriages, etc. As I looked over the FOX News web site today, I realized that Americans need to set some boundaries.
As an example, I will use jazz singer Rene Marie, who was asked to sing the National Anthem at an event in Denver. Instead of singing “Star Spangled Banner”, she sang the lyrics of "Lift Every Voice and Sing", a hymn commonly referred to as the "Black National Anthem”, to the tune of the national anthem. To quote Councilman Charlie Brown, “There is no substitute for the national anthem. “
Ms. Marie clearly crossed a boundary many of us hold. However, I didn’t read one word about repercussions, or even that anyone left the event in objection. They probably just do what people always do – stood there in disbelief while the boundary-breaker has the last laugh.
Why didn’t the spectators say anything about this? Because she is black? Are Americans so scared of being called racist that we hold our tongue on something we hold so dear? I certainly would have demanded an apology and an explanation if I had been the mayor of Denver. And I would vow to never, ever support her professionally with my hard-earned American “In God We Trust” dollars.
There are many other instances of Americans overstepping their boundaries, “pushing the envelope” or “expanding our horizons”. Basically, and plainly speaking, they are rebellious adults. They can no longer raise ire by staying out late or dating someone of whom Mother doesn’t approve. So what do they do? They giggle with their managers/partners/photographers over the coup they are planning to pull on the narrow-minded public. It is, after all, up to them to remind us that they are on a different plane, so liberally-minded that they march to a different drummer.
Actually, these rebels need to realize that they are not marching to a different drummer. They are simply the loud, the boisterous,the pushy. The people who will stand up for what they believe without trying to change the world to that belief are actually becoming the minority. We hold our tongues because we try to remember that we all have liberties. We are becoming overly tolerant, to the point of letting the schoolyard bully make us give up our lunch money and stand in the corner during recess.
America was founded on inalienable rights, pursuit of happiness and liberty and justice for all. I hold dear the right to say anything I like and be protected. But if you don’t want me to tout my beliefs in your circle (and these people clearly do not) then don’t tout your beliefs in mine.
As an example, I will use jazz singer Rene Marie, who was asked to sing the National Anthem at an event in Denver. Instead of singing “Star Spangled Banner”, she sang the lyrics of "Lift Every Voice and Sing", a hymn commonly referred to as the "Black National Anthem”, to the tune of the national anthem. To quote Councilman Charlie Brown, “There is no substitute for the national anthem. “
Ms. Marie clearly crossed a boundary many of us hold. However, I didn’t read one word about repercussions, or even that anyone left the event in objection. They probably just do what people always do – stood there in disbelief while the boundary-breaker has the last laugh.
Why didn’t the spectators say anything about this? Because she is black? Are Americans so scared of being called racist that we hold our tongue on something we hold so dear? I certainly would have demanded an apology and an explanation if I had been the mayor of Denver. And I would vow to never, ever support her professionally with my hard-earned American “In God We Trust” dollars.
There are many other instances of Americans overstepping their boundaries, “pushing the envelope” or “expanding our horizons”. Basically, and plainly speaking, they are rebellious adults. They can no longer raise ire by staying out late or dating someone of whom Mother doesn’t approve. So what do they do? They giggle with their managers/partners/photographers over the coup they are planning to pull on the narrow-minded public. It is, after all, up to them to remind us that they are on a different plane, so liberally-minded that they march to a different drummer.
Actually, these rebels need to realize that they are not marching to a different drummer. They are simply the loud, the boisterous,the pushy. The people who will stand up for what they believe without trying to change the world to that belief are actually becoming the minority. We hold our tongues because we try to remember that we all have liberties. We are becoming overly tolerant, to the point of letting the schoolyard bully make us give up our lunch money and stand in the corner during recess.
America was founded on inalienable rights, pursuit of happiness and liberty and justice for all. I hold dear the right to say anything I like and be protected. But if you don’t want me to tout my beliefs in your circle (and these people clearly do not) then don’t tout your beliefs in mine.
2 comments:
I Couldn't agree more. Well said!
I agree. Especially in this little podunk town! Have to agree with the Joneses or you don't fit in. That is why I don't fit in!
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