Costly Free Speech

The rant of the day goes to the supposed Westboro Baptist Church, who insist that “God hates the USA,” “God hates soldiers,” and other ridiculous accusations that are sensationalistic and hollow to their very core.

I firmly believe the First Amendment, giving us the right to free speech, among other rights, is a foundational element of our way of life in the United States. It’s when persons intentionally exploit the limits, and become the unwelcome anomaly, that I take exception. The unfortunate irony in this situation is that the soldiers, past and present, that defend our nation on a daily basis and consistently bear the weight on our behalf, EARNED that freedom for us all, and the very ones who enjoy that quiet freedom use it to insult those same soldiers.

If that isn’t enough, the “church” also takes great joy in attacking homosexuals, our entire country, and now, Elizabeth Edwards. They announced today they would be present outside of the church where the service will be held to commemorate the life of Ms. Edwards, who dies this week after a prolonged battle with breast cancer. After this latest attack, it is beyond clear that the intent of these folks is to gain attention and create shock value to put themselves in the spotlight- very un-Christian I must say.

The Supreme Court is expected to rule sometime next year on a case brought against the church by the father of a Marine killed in Iraq, who was harassed as he attempted to put his son to rest. Let’s hope the decision comes sooner than later.

I think this situation offers several topics of discussion. First, what defines a “church” and when does it cross the line, and become a hate group instead? Second, where does free speech end? Last, how can we join together and ignore such stupidity? The “church” is composed mostly of family members of the so-called reverend that leads this group. They have made it well known that they love the attention. Is there a way to effectively discuss this issue, without giving it the repeated media attention? Let’s hope we figure it out.

In the interim, my prayers go out to those impacted by these despicable acts; and for those who commit them. Hate the sin, but love the sinner. That’s what Christians do.