Condeming the different
Whizdom Wednesday: 10.02. 2024
We tend to condemn people who are different from us, to define their sins as paramount and our sinfulness as being insignificant. President Jimmy Carter
Yesterday marked President Jimmy Carter’s 100th birthday—a remarkable milestone. In honor of the occasion, I searched for a Jimmy Carter quote that resonated with Rainbow Threads readers. Among many, one stood out as particularly meaningful.
Jimmy Carter was an unapologetic advocate, embodying the true essence of a Christian not just through his words, but through his actions. His deeds, particularly with Habitat for Humanity, made a significant impact on the world.
Habitat for Humanity gained increased recognition with his involvement. That wasn’t Jimmy Carter’s primary aim. He was a giver, always ready to dedicate himself fully to the causes he cared about.
Queer people are all too familiar with condemnation, which, sadly, often comes from Christians—a fact I find perplexing. Without quoting the Bible, much has been said about judging others' sins while being flawed ourselves. In fundamentalist Christianity, the condemnation of all sin is a prominent theme.
The religious debate over same-sex marriage lingers on. Many Christians still oppose legalizing same-sex unions, believing it undermines the “traditional” concept of marriage. It's important to note that government recognition of marriage is separate from religious sanctification. All faiths in the United States are free to determine their marriage practices and who they recognize as married.
Jimmy Carter also believed all loving relationships, including same-sex marriages, should be celebrated and recognized. He emphasized that such unions do not harm anyone. A humorous quote that circulated during the more contentious debates on this issue was, 'If you don’t support gay marriage, then don’t marry a gay person.”
It's harmful to demean and condemn anyone based on their social, economic, political, religious, or personal beliefs. Everyone deserves respect, regardless of their background or viewpoint. I believe in uplifting individuals who celebrate others, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
Let’s take inspiration from the centenarian’s wisdom. Over his 100 years, Jimmy Carter amassed a wealth of knowledge by uplifting others rather than condemning them. He learned through listening and engaging with people. We gain wisdom by making a positive impact in the world. The choice to uplift rather than condemn is ours. Choose wisely.
I think Jesus would encourage any love affair if it was honest and sincere and was not damaging to anyone else and I don’t see that gay marriage damages anyone else. - Jimmy Carter in a HuffPost 2018 interview.