After I read Jack Kitchin’s article that blatantly generalized not only the “left” as being some massive immoral Anti-Christ, but Christians being somehow both more moral and more oppressed in their speech, I realized how people in positions of power will never realize the effects of the institutions that they feed from. As a Christian myself, it is disheartening to see another Christian make a convoluted assumption that the opinions and speech of other Christians are somehow being attacked or invalidated, considering that Christians make up the vast majority of people in America and our government.
If Christians make up the majority of America, and at the same time the majority of Americans support same-sex marriage, for instance, then would that not mean that Christians have spoken up to also support same-sex marriage? It seems Mr. Kitchin forgot about the plethora of people, like myself, that are Christians yet still support both unconditional equality and the separation of church and state — Christians that support not meddling with politics and forcing my beliefs on any other group of people.
Unfortunately, as I started writing my initial rebuttal to his bewildering assertions about the oppression of Christians in America, I had to stop myself because I knew that I did not have the power to make him understand the structural and institutional frameworks of Christianity’s influence in America as we are now. Therefore, I have become resigned in knowing that most of those who possess privilege are inherently blind to its effects. I have settled with the fact that some will never understand the powers and privileges one grows up with and benefits from.
However, I take solace in knowing that my beliefs do not infringe on the pursuit of anyone’s happiness, whether it be a woman getting an abortion, two women getting married or a man who is transgender sacrificing his life for our country. Not only do my beliefs as a Christian not infringe on anyone’s pursuit of free will and happiness, they are also compatible with Jesus’ teaching. In fact, we are called to be like Jesus, and it is because of that I will remain radical in my beliefs of unconditional love for any and everyone.
All I insist on is compassion. If compassion, whether backed by a religion or by simple humanistic behavior, is more widespread and offered more, then Americans can truly be equal and can truly understand each other. Let’s have compassion for those that are different, those that are suffering, those in need, those that follow other religions or none. One can be an advocate for Christianity without imposing on our government that was created not for one religious group, but for all. Through this compassion and just being a good person, understanding abounds.
Mr. Kitchin, you can generalize the left as being immoral and the right as being God-fearing moral Christians, but at the end of the day, America will continue with or without Christianity. You as a Christian must realize that it is not your job to promote your beliefs through government, but rather, through the simple act of loving your neighbors above all else, if any progress is to be made.
Zach Boros is a sophomore majoring in psychology. His column runs biweekly.
