On local religious moderates...

In an election year marked heavily by the intersection of religion and politics, they are frustrated that discourse has centered largely on two issues: abortion and gay marriage. They're dismayed that, in the eyes of some, being faithful automatically means voting Republican. And they're frustrated that lost in the rhetoric surrounding abortion and gay marriage are issues central to their faith: alleviating poverty and working for peace and justice.
[...]
"[The religous right has] always been adept at drawing on techniques and resources from the larger culture, including the world of business," Killen says. "And they're very well organized. They always have been. They tend to preach a gospel and theology that are simple, direct, accessible."

Simple, direct, and accessible is a good way to build a cohesive movement. Black and white is always easier to discern than shades of gray. Pity it isn't a black-and-white world...

( full article )

thankful thursday

1. Yummy garlicky roast beef.
2. Cheese.
3. Husbands who don't complain when you're late for dinner.
4. People I can negotiate with at work.
5. Friends, chocolate, and cheesecake.
6. A neighborhood built for walking, even if it's the 'work' neighborhood.
7. Jeff, for letting me not explain today.
8. Bad influences.
9. Guts to say something I've been scared to say.
10. Cozy sweaters.
11. Roses on my desk.