So lately I’ve been frustrated by a few things. I could probably write a full post about each, but for now I’ll just provide a list with some thoughts.
1. Citing grammar/grammatical mistakes to win an argument: I’ve seen this a couple of times recently. In this scenario a person makes a valid and potentially strong argument opposing someone’s ideals, and instead of engaging with their critique the person dismisses the person for being too stupid to use the English language appropriately. Now I like language, I believe in using correct grammar, my personal grammatical skills are average to below average, and I appreciate when my friends help correct my grammatical mistakes. (Thanks Andrea.) For me, however, I’m much more concerned with the content of someone’s remarks over their form. Furthermore, I don’t think that grammar is a sign of intelligence. You can train a monkey to put commas in the right place. In fact when you disparage someone for an obvious typo or an incorrect apostrophe I lose respect for you.
2. John Piper books: I’m glad John Piper exists. I’m glad he writes books. However, every time I turn around someone is trying to push a John Piper down my throat. I love you all and your love of reformed theology, but I’ve got a reading list a mile long and Piper is not first, second, or even third in line.
3. The reaction to the health care reform bill: This one is more involved, but I will try to succinctly state my reasons.
(A.) I don’t think that the signing of this bill means that suddenly the sky is falling, I now live in a communist country, or that I’m in danger of death squads trying to kill my grandma. I could be wrong, but for now this type of reaction annoys me
(B.) The arguments that draw on Christian teaching seem weak or selective at best. I’m not saying Christians need to support this bill, I’m just saying that those who turn to the NT for reasons to oppose this bill may not find the clear teaching they’re hoping for. Furthermore, I think Christian leaders who base their arguments on Scripture seem to send the message that says if you don’t vote like , if don’t support what I support you can’t be a Christian. Christians who oppose this bill should be free to oppose it, just find better arguments that closes off the kingdom to people who vote different than you. This one bothers me the most, especially because I’m worried that we are putting unnecessary obstacles in front of the Gospel.
(C.) The rhetoric has become so radicalized that conversation between opposing groups has become impossible. In fact the other side has become the enemy. (Both sides are guilty of this by the by.) For those that oppose the bill, please don’t say it’s evil and compare it to women getting raped or people killed by radical Islamists. It doesn’t prove your point and just ensures that no one will want to talk with you (except those that already believe what you believe). I love the people who support this bill (even though it is flawed) and I love the people who oppose this bill (although I hope they support health care reform at some point). I just want the rhetoric and apocalyptic language to tone it down a little so that maybe we can have a discussion between opposing parties some day.
Furthermore, if you keep inciting people into a rage and turning the opposing side into a ruthless enemy then don’t be surprised when death threats go out and bricks go through people’s windows.
4. Backs: Listen back I’m tired of you hurting. I’ve got junk to do, and I find it hard to do on muscle relaxers and pain killers. You cost me a full day this week and some other minutes on various other days. Enough’s enough, this economy is bad and you don’t want to be out on the street looking for a job.
5. Diaper rash: Enough said.
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