by devonblackwood.net | Mar 31, 2024 | Blog
The recent ruling from the High Court legalizing gay marriage in all 50 states has sparked intense debate and controversy across America. For many, the idea of same-sex couples being granted the right to marry seems surreal and even unsettling. Questions about the role of the judiciary in shaping social norms, the politicization of personal identities, and the clash between personal beliefs and legal mandates have come to the forefront of public discourse. In this comprehensive analysis, we delve into the complexities surrounding the issue of gay marriage, examining the intersection of fantasy and reality in the context of legal, social, and moral frameworks.
Initial Reactions and Controversy
The High Court’s decision to legalize gay marriage by a narrow 5-4 majority has elicited strong reactions from both supporters and opponents of same-sex marriage. Critics of the ruling argue that it represents judicial overreach, with five justices imposing their personal beliefs on the entire nation. This sentiment is compounded by the perceived hypocrisy of some justices who have previously championed states’ rights but now advocate for federal intervention on this issue.
Opponents of gay marriage often reject comparisons to civil rights struggles, arguing that sexual orientation is a private matter best kept out of the public sphere. They express frustration with what they perceive as the politicization of the issue, accusing the far left of using gay marriage as a wedge issue to gain electoral advantage. However, they caution that this strategy may backfire, galvanizing the religious right and shifting the focus away from pressing economic concerns.
Personal Beliefs and Public Discourse
Amidst the heated debate surrounding gay marriage, many individuals express a desire to move beyond discussions of sexual orientation and focus on more pressing issues such as the economy and job creation. They decry the media’s obsession with politicians’ positions on gay marriage, arguing that individuals should be free to hold their own beliefs without fear of reprisal or harassment.
At the same time, there is a recognition of the importance of respecting diverse perspectives and allowing for open dialogue on contentious issues. While some may adamantly oppose gay marriage on religious or cultural grounds, others embrace it as a fundamental right and a step towards greater equality and inclusion. Bridging the divide between these differing viewpoints requires a commitment to empathy, understanding, and mutual respect.
The Reality of Marriage and Legal Recognition
Despite the High Court’s ruling, many individuals maintain steadfast beliefs about the nature of marriage as a union between one man and one woman. They argue that legal recognition of same-sex marriage does not alter the fundamental essence of marriage as they perceive it. For them, marriage is deeply rooted in tradition, culture, and religious teachings, and no court decree can change that.
However, there is also an acknowledgment that societal attitudes towards marriage are evolving, reflecting changing norms and values. While some may continue to adhere to traditional definitions of marriage, others embrace more inclusive and expansive understandings of love, partnership, and commitment. The challenge lies in navigating these diverse perspectives while upholding principles of equality, justice, and individual autonomy.
Moving Forward: Finding Common Ground
As the debate over gay marriage continues, it is essential to seek common ground and foster constructive dialogue that transcends partisan divides. Rather than demonizing opposing viewpoints or resorting to divisive rhetoric, we must strive to listen with empathy, engage with humility, and seek solutions that promote the common good.
Ultimately, the issue of gay marriage forces us to confront fundamental questions about the nature of identity, freedom, and equality in society. By navigating the intersection of fantasy and reality with compassion and understanding, we can move towards a future where all individuals are treated with dignity, respect, and equal rights under the law.
by devonblackwood.net | Mar 31, 2024 | Blog
(Devon’s Response to Dr. McHugh’s WSJ article on Transgender surgery)
http://www.wsj.com/articles/paul-mchugh-transgender-surgery-isnt-the-solution-1402615120
In a recent article published in The Wall Street Journal, Dr. Paul McHugh (American Psychiatrist, Researcher, Educator and formerly Chair of Johns Hopkins Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences) presents his perspective on transgender surgery, arguing that it is not the solution to the challenges faced by individuals experiencing gender dysphoria. As someone who has worked directly alongside Dr. McHugh for many years, I unequivocally endorse his concerns and assumptions about the growing trend towards accepting and normalizing gender-affirming surgeries especially when hardworking taxpayers are forced to flip the bill. In this response, I aim to address some of the key points raised by Dr. McHugh and provide additional insights into the complex issues surrounding transgender identity and medical intervention.
First and foremost, it is essential to recognize Dr. McHugh’s expertise and contributions to the field of psychiatry. His logical approach and commitment to evidence-based medicine have earned him respect and admiration from colleagues and peers alike.
Dr. McHugh rightly emphasizes the distinction between fantasy and reality, asserting that healthcare providers have a moral obligation to prioritize evidence-based treatments over subjective desires. This is a fundamental principle of medical ethics, rooted in the Hippocratic Oath to do no harm. For some, it could be true that the experience of gender dysphoria is simply not a matter of whims or desires but a deeply felt sense of incongruence between one’s assigned sex at birth and one’s internal sense of gender identity but health care providers and physicians have a moral obligation to help their patients understand that we simply cannot bow to every whim and whimper of their desires i.e. meddling with their body parts, etc. The plain truth is that our biological makeup just is but sadly enough we are becoming a crazy “everything goes society” by the leftist agenda. Just because a male might feel like he wants to be in a female’s body or vice-versa a female to a male for that matter, we should not be performing surgeries that borders on moral questions or logic. Fake hair, hormonally charged breasts, vocal change, floral dresses or high heels does not make you a woman when you have a penis to prove otherwise. This author finds sex change operations particularly troubling for psychiatrists and mental health therapists who say it’s OK. If we do, we are merely adding to the maze of confusion in patients who already struggle with identity problems or emotional psychopathology. Allied health professionals agree that delusions and other types of false perceptions can be the core symptoms of men and women who end up in psychiatric emergency rooms or mental institutions and that their delusions can be fixed (very compelling to them) and not real. To say it’s Ok to change our body parts or be someone you’re clearly not because we “feel” it’s okay doesn’t make sense and the sooner we get back to practicing moral medicine it will help to set society straight and rid ourselves of today’s mad views and practices.
The case that is being made is that biological sex is immutable and that gender identity is a complex and multifaceted aspect of human experience, that research in neuroscience and psychology has demonstrated that gender identity is not solely determined by physical anatomy, but also influenced by genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors; therefore, dismissing transgender individuals’ experiences as mere delusions overlooks the lived reality of their struggles and the genuine distress caused by gender dysphoria. We could also say that contrary to popular misconceptions, transgender surgeries are not undertaken lightly or without careful consideration by healthcare professionals. This involves extensive psychological evaluations, hormone therapy, and counseling to ensure that individuals are well-informed and mentally prepared for the physical and emotional changes associated with transition even though twelve and fifteen year olds are bordering on even more serious problems. I’m pretty sure I will post a future blog on black males in particular who are feminizing their boys and then you wonder why the poor kids are confused and isolated, and why our poor black girls cannot find a REAL man to marry. Regardless of how we spin it, the issue at hand still does not make sense. You are who you are and that’s it! This writer believes that transgender identities are inherently abnormal or deviant and that there is a much deeper issue going on inside. Yes, gender diversity has been documented across cultures and throughout history, challenging the simplistic binary understanding of sex and gender but the case of Bruce Jenner (not Caitlyn – the man has children for God’s sake proving he’s a man who produced sperm) , who publicly came out as transgender and underwent gender-affirming surgery, has sparked widespread debate and scrutiny. I believe Mr. Jenner has deep-seated psychological conditions that may have been overlooked throughout the process simply to please, cave in, push the narrative, and indoctrinate our most vulnerable – our children. While Mr. Jenner’s journey may be perplexing and rather odd to some (including myself particularly after he received the courage award), it is proper to respect his autonomy and lived experience and regardless of our system of belief, culture, and worldview, we should strive to create a society that promotes understanding, acceptance and inclusion for all individuals, regardless of gender identity or expression.
In conclusion, I again laud and commend Dr. Paul McHugh’s bravery to write his op-ed in a charismatic and frank manner yet still believing it is essential to approach this incredibly complex and thought-provoking issue with compassion, empathy, and an understanding.
by devonblackwood.net | Mar 31, 2024 | Blog
In times of economic hardship and personal struggle, the weight of emotional stress can become unbearable for many individuals. As job losses, financial instability, and personal challenges rise, so too does the prevalence of mental health issues. Among the most tragic consequences of this emotional turmoil is suicide.
The loss of a loved one to suicide is a devastating experience that leaves families shattered and grappling with profound grief. In the aftermath of such a tragedy, it’s crucial for communities to come together to support those who are mourning and struggling to make sense of their loss.
Understanding the Unique Grief of Suicide Loss
The grief experienced by those who have lost a loved one to suicide is often complex and overwhelming. Unlike other forms of death, suicide leaves behind a trail of unanswered questions, guilt, and intense emotions for the bereaved. Family members may find themselves grappling with feelings of shock, anger, shame, and profound sadness all at once.
One of the most challenging aspects of suicide loss is the stigma that surrounds it. Survivors may face judgment, blame, or misconceptions from others who struggle to understand the complexities of mental illness and the circumstances that led to their loved one’s death. This added layer of stigma can intensify feelings of isolation and make it difficult for grieving families to seek support.
How to Support Those in Grief
If you know someone who has lost a loved one to suicide, it’s essential to approach them with compassion, empathy, and non-judgment. Here are some ways you can offer support:
- Listen Without Judgment: Allow the bereaved to share their feelings and experiences without fear of judgment. Offer a listening ear and validate their emotions without trying to fix or minimize their pain.
- Acknowledge the Loss: Recognize the significance of their loss and express your condolences. Avoid euphemisms or clichés, as they may come across as dismissive or insensitive. Instead, offer sincere words of sympathy and support.
- Respect Their Grief Process: Grieving is a deeply personal journey, and there is no right or wrong way to mourn a loss. Respect the individual’s unique grieving process and allow them the space and time they need to heal.
- Offer Practical Support: In addition to emotional support, offer practical assistance such as running errands, preparing meals, or helping with household chores. These small gestures can alleviate some of the burdens of daily life and provide much-needed comfort to the bereaved.
- Connect Them with Resources: Encourage the bereaved to seek professional help if needed. Therapists, support groups, and mental health hotlines can provide valuable guidance and support for those struggling to cope with suicide loss.
- Be Patient and Persistent: Grieving takes time, and the road to healing is often long and arduous. Be patient with the bereaved and continue to offer your support and presence, even when it feels like they may be withdrawing or pushing you away.
Breaking the Silence and Shattering the Stigma
One of the most powerful ways to support those affected by suicide loss is by breaking the silence and shattering the stigma surrounding mental illness and suicide. By openly discussing these issues and raising awareness about the importance of mental health support, we can create a more compassionate and understanding society where those in need feel empowered to seek help without fear of judgment or shame.
Educating ourselves and others about the warning signs of suicide, the importance of early intervention, and the resources available for those struggling with mental health issues is crucial in preventing future tragedies. By working together to support and uplift one another, we can build a community where everyone feels valued, supported, and understood.
In conclusion, the loss of a loved one to suicide is a profound and devastating experience that leaves families shattered and struggling to make sense of their grief. As friends, family members, and members of the community, it’s essential for us to come together to support those who are mourning and provide them with the compassion, understanding, and resources they need to heal. By breaking the silence and shattering the stigma surrounding mental illness and suicide, we can create a more compassionate and supportive society where everyone feels empowered to seek help and support when they need it most.
by devonblackwood.net | Mar 31, 2024 | Blog
Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.
Romans 14:19
A friend is hurt and becomes your enemy. Your spouse breaks the news to you about a secret affair. You are repeatedly abused by a relative or close friend you thought you could trust. A meaningful relationship slowly dissolves and breaks apart.
You ache inside, so much that you don’t know if you will ever feel good again.
You discover that a member of your church has been molesting your young daughter. An elder spreads rumors about you and ruins your reputation. Dissension and strife in your local church bring bitterness and resentment that keeps building. A trusted co-worker borrows a large sum of money from you and then begins to avoid you when it is time to pay it back. A childhood friend for years reveals your deepest secrets.
Whatever it is that has happened, the wounds go deep. You never thought you could hurt this much. It takes all your strength not to strike out at the ones who have caused you this pain.
And then someone has the nerve to tell you to forgive! How can you?
The question should perhaps instead be, “How can you not?”
When we’ve been hurt that deeply, we respond almost instinctively. Tempers flair. The devil finds openings to set up shop in vengeful hearts, and we give in to retaliation, perhaps with small barbs, or perhaps with something bigger. But it often backfires on us. We might even win a legal battle or two, but inside, the gentleness in our spirits begins to wither and die. Anger and resentment take its place, slowly poisoning our hearts, and the poison spreads through our homes and churches. What once was a haven becomes just another reminder of the wounds we would rather forget.
Somewhere along the line, we may begin to realize that this is no way to live life. So we struggle to let go of the hurt, but it keeps popping up again and again.
We wish we could rewind our lives, go back to the day before this whole cycle started. In many cases, a simple apology from the heart would have resolved most of the bad feelings before they ever had a chance to take hold in us. But wishing that the one who hurt us will apologize is a waste of time. We cannot change another person’s heart. We cannot force someone to apologize, and even if we could, it wouldn’t be sincere.
When we feel everything around us is out of control and falling apart as a direct result of the actions of others, it is easy to be so absorbed about our own feelings, and the failings of others, that we miss hearing what God wants us to do. It seems like the hardest thing in the world is to forgive, but forgiveness is an authentic and true test of our Christian character. It shows if we’ve really absorbed the truth that while we were sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). We’ve been forgiven. When we truly understand the mercy we have been shown, we find it almost impossible to withhold forgiveness from others.
This principle alone is enough to test our relationship with Christ. As we move in and out of society, our work setting, and the church we attend, people are watching us to see how we respond in times of mistreatment, crisis, and betrayal. We can teach, sing, or preach all we want and we can be the greatest evangelizer of souls in our community–but if we don’t practice the principles of forgiveness and mean it from deep within our hearts, our rejoicing becomes hollow.
I presume that we are all familiar with the saying, “Actions speak louder than words.” The wisdom in this short proverb reminds us that people are watching our behavior. What we do matters more than what we say. We glibly talk about how Jesus Christ forgave His persecutors and those that hung Him high on the cross of Calvary to die for our sins. We talk about Stephen and how just before he closed his eyes he looked up to heaven and begged God to forgive those that accused him of blasphemy and then stoned him to death. But until we have practiced this forgiveness ourselves, it’s just words. Real life experience is the only teacher that can shape us and mold us into the perfect image of God. To have a heart like Christ, we must be perfect in deeds as well as the way we think. Forgiveness may be the hardest thing we’ve ever had to do, our greatest battle. But if we see it as a stepping-stone to the fountain of life, we will do it willingly and rejoice while we carry it out.
Forgiveness may seem to be unreachable, as if on the top of a mountain or behind a strong wall. But if God can tear down the walls of Jericho (see Joshua 6), He can take down the walls in our heart that keep us from forgiving. In Jericho, the walls were made of stone. In our hearts, often the walls are built from remembered pain. But often, too, other blocks are made of our stubborn nature and refusal to surrender even when we’re dead wrong. If we say, “It’s impossible to forgive,” we are denying the very nature of God. He is a great God before whom there are no impossibilities. He has told us to forgive:
Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” Matthew 18:21-22
He wouldn’t tell us to do something if He knew it couldn’t be done. He knows we can forgive. But He doesn’t expect us to do it without Him. As we lay down our stubborn refusals and surrender our will to His, He will work in our hearts to remove strife and malice. The wall will collapse. We will truly, from the depths of our hearts, forgive. Then we will know what we have been missing and relationship with the Father will be restored.
In the last chapter, we examined the foundations of healing. It is worth mentioning that no healing can be realized unless we are sincere about forgiving first. The same is true for spiritual healing when we’ve suffered wrong. Jesus has never left us at a loss regarding the foundations of forgiveness. When He trod the earth years ago, He never ceased from teaching the great multitudes that followed Him, as well as His disciples, about the power of forgiveness. Jesus emphasized that He will hide his face from us if we refuse to forgive. He illustrated that forgiveness is not a win-lose issue. It is a must. It is deeply rooted on the grounds of obedience and if we are obedient we will forgive. If we are submissive to the words of God, we will find that forgiveness becomes easier and easier.
Foundations of Forgiveness
What do we understand about forgiveness? And why do we think it necessary as a part of the Christian journey? What has Scripture said about it? Consider these perspectives:
- Emotions do not dictate whether or not we forgive others. Forgiving is principle based – not based on emotions.
- There is no communion with God when we refuse to forgive.
- An unforgiving spirit opens up the door for resentment, anger, and vindictiveness, very common symptoms of a resistant attitude.
- Forgiveness is reciprocal because when we forgive we receive forgiveness from God, and when we say we’re sorry to others they will likewise reach out to us.
- A church meeting or family gathering can help to bring clarity or air grievances, but forgiveness is not based on meetings. Forgiveness must be a choice of the individuals involved.
- There is no such thing as “limited forgiveness.” Don’t be surprised if the same person who let you down today, does the same again in the future.
- Forgiveness is based on immediacy and genuineness.
- The path to the kingdom is through forgiveness because that is the core basis on which Jesus’ blood was shed.
- An unmerciful person does not understand what forgiving is all about.
- The greatest blessings awaits those who forgive.
- It means nothing for others to forgive you or you to forgive them solely on the basis of guilty feelings.
- When we forgive we must do so completely and not hold grudges or be suspicious afterwards.
- Forgiving does not mean that we must trust blindly. We should still make sensible and cautious decisions in the future.
Jesus uses parables to make basic truths and principles easier to understand. In Luke 15, He tells the parable of the prodigal son. This story analyzes the power of two spirits: the unmerciful and the merciful. We learn of the attitude of a despondent but hopeful father who was mature enough to overlook the impulsivity of his younger son, while his older son, jealous and craving attention, had a hard time looking past his brother’s squandering behavior.
Then He said: “A certain man had two sons. And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the portion of goods that falls to me.’ So he divided to them his livelihood. And not many days after, the younger son gathered all together, journeyed to a far country, and there wasted his possessions with prodigal living. But when he had spent all, there arose a severe famine in that land, and he began to be in want. Then he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country, and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would gladly have filled his stomach with the pods that the swine ate, and no one gave him anything. “But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants.”’ “And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry. “Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. So he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and because he has received him safe and sound, your father has killed the fatted calf.’ But he was angry and would not go in. Therefore his father came out and pleaded with him. So he answered and said to his father, ‘Lo, these many years I have been serving you; I never transgressed your commandment at any time; and yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might make merry with my friends. But as soon as this son of yours came, who has devoured your livelihood with harlots, you killed the fatted calf for him.’ “And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours. It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.’” Luke 15:11-32
Preachers and teachers have analyzed this parable from every angle and presented it from various viewpoints. To some, the parable is telling of a sinner returning to Christ and heaven rejoices because a man that was lost is found. Others have found lessons about self-will and stubbornness. Some speak of the necessity of being humbled, and the dangers of false pride.
Regardless of which way we tackle this meaningful story, the message of forgiveness resounds through the entire text. Although this compassionate father must have been dismayed at how his son had wasted his inheritance on intemperate living, it did not stop him from exhibiting genuine compassion and forgiveness. He clearly believed all along that the day would come when his son would turn the corner and head towards home. This perspective gave him strength when he felt weak and courage when he felt sorrow.
The wayward son rehearsed his speech over and over. The father didn’t need to. His heart had already forgiven, and he simply responded out of his heart. It is interesting to recognize that although there was temporary separation between father and son, their relationship remained intact. The son was embraced and restored all in the same instant. What joy, to be forgiven like that! And what an amazing gift the Lord has given us: that we can forgive and restore just as He has done for us. When we show others forgiveness, it sends a powerful message of hope. In the midst of darkness, forgiveness gives them light.
The older son, who had nursed feelings of jealousy and irritation instead of forgiveness, also responded from his heart. He blurted out his displeasure with the whole situation. Unfortunately, he was so absorbed with his own feelings of disdain for his brother that he couldn’t grasp the concept of forgiveness. Nor could he understand why his father, whom he had served for all these years, was so keen to give undeserved attention to a son who was selfish and irresponsible.
In western culture, we are encouraged to be assertive, and not let others take advantage of us. If the older brother had confided in us about how unappreciated he felt, and how unnecessary and undeserved an extravagant celebration would be, we might urge him to confront his father about the upcoming feast.
But that is not God’s counsel. The father showed his older son that forgiveness makes room for peace and harmony in God’s presence. When others are moved to right the wrongs they have done, even when complete restitution is impossible, forgiveness takes front and center. Like this son, we too must be careful not to get carried away with our own need for self-gratification. We must center our hearts on the needs of others so that they too can be set free. When we loose the chains of heaviness that hold down others we might have had a conflict with, it will be easier for us to honor God. When other people fall flat on their face and look up at us for mercy and forgiveness, we must not pretend that we don’t hear God’s voice beckoning us to give them what He has so freely given us. At one time or another in our own lives, we too will be at the mercy of others, seeking forgiveness for mistakes we have made. When we show mercy and extend a heart of forgiveness, we are being obedient. We are showing the Father’s love.
Jesus also taught lessons about forgiveness from two different perspectives in Mark 11 and Matthew 5. As He opened the spiritual eyes of his disciples, they began to understand the vital nature of forgiveness. Did they want their prayers to be heard? Then they must forgive:
And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses. Mark 11:25-26
It is an awesome privilege to be able to address God and have Him hear us. And it is an act of indescribable mercy that we are forgiven. This passage shows us that both the privilege of prayer and the assurance of forgiveness are intertwined with our own willingness to forgive. Not sometime in the future. Not even “later today.” No, we are to forgive as we stand there praying. The other side of conflict is found in Matthew 5.
Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Matthew 5:23-24
If you have offended someone else, Jesus places more importance on making it right with that person than with bringing an offering to God.
Clearly, both parties involved in a rift or conflict must seek reconciliation if they want full relationship with the Lord. Can you imagine what kind of world we would have if everyone took these two exhortations seriously? Consider how many conflicts remain unresolved because both parties believe the other is at greater fault. But a careful reading of the Scriptures leaves no wiggle room. Whether we caused the offense, or endured it, or both, we know what we must do: go and make it right.
One final word: If you have an outstanding apology or a need to forgive someone, I urge you to do it right away, and do it eagerly. The time may be short. You never know the moment God will snatch a person away. If He offers an opportunity for reconciliation, take it gratefully. You never know which opportunity will be your last.
Deepening Your Connection Through Forgiveness
- Make a sincere apology to anyone you might have offended, whether big or small.
- Forget about any grudges you’re holding on to and simply move on in your life in Christ.
- Develop a prayer routine where you take the time out to pray for others who might have done something to you that you didn’t tolerate very well.
- Seek out the different Old and New Testament passages that give examples of times when forgiveness was sought.
- Don’t be a fool or allow yourself to be battered and bruised by others. Put your guard up and use wisdom in your interactions.
- When other people ask for your forgiveness, don’t put them on hold or say things like, “I’ll think about it.” Forgive them immediately so they can be free in spirit.
- Do some journal work if you think it helps you alleviate fears or trust issues.
- Ask God to forgive you when you have sinned instead of thinking the wrong you’ve done is too disgraceful for forgiveness.
Words from the Fountain
Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Luke 6:37
by devonblackwood.net | Mar 31, 2024 | Blog
For the life of me I have a hard time comprehending the reasons hardened criminals of society give when it comes time for them to get the death penalty. I guess that they’ve been just too busy committing all sorts of violent crime and disorder in the world that they’ve never taken the time to listen to the fundamental concepts that governs our lives: You live by the sword, you die by it. I think it’s dumb to be tough and unmerciful all your life and then suddenly start to weep and wail violently when the courts has ordered that you be put to death for the wrong you have done. It’s ludicrous in my book. And it should be in yours. Think about it for a minute. How many times have we watched in sheer horror before our very eyes on our television screens men and women who commit the most sickening and horrific crimes, cry in a court of law? Or how many times do we watch their attorney debate and petition the high courts, the States, and their Governors, not to put these horrible and heartless persons to death? These are criminals without passion or mercy. They don’t care about the law or about the emotions of society because they are sociopathic in their thinking and care only about their wants and needs. They have no regard for principles and simply don’t care about the aftermath of their actions. Child molesters, rapist, murders, serial killers, cop killers and the like. Those are the ones I’m talking about. I’m not talking about kids who hustle drugs on the corner to buy something to wear or feed themselves. That’s a whole different issue for the next time. I’m talking about criminals. Yes, criminals. We know what the definition is. Not shoplifters who snatch a soft drink because they’re “high” and feel thirsty. Or drug addicts who’s having bad withdrawal and steal a radio to hack for ten or fifteen dollars for their next hit. That’s a whole different issue for next time when we look at drugs in America.
Frankly, I’m sick and tired of seeing criminals beg for mercy on the television screen and crying and our hard earned tax dollars going to their defense over and over again. Put them to death and get it over with. Society would be better off without them. And we’ll have much more money to purchase school books for our children so they can learn and get a better education to compete in the world. Perhaps we’ll have more funds for recreation centers to keep our young people off the streets and out of the juvenile justice system. We can build more libraries and pay teachers a decent salary for a change. We can finally have a few extra dollars to take care of sick and unwanted pets. But we choose to go easy on heartless criminals and for what reasons I don’t know. It’s paradoxically and so trifling that when they are on their backs on the death chair they cry like a new born infant because they’re about to get a little 2 inch needle in their vein. Listen to the excuses: “I’m afraid of needles,” “Oh God, I’m afraid to die,” “Can you please give me a chance,” “I had a rough life,” “It wasn’t my fault,” “Why can’t I just spend the rest of my life in prison?” And the excuses get bigger and bigger. You see, the nicest question to ask these hardened folks is: “What would your victim say?” Point is these same criminals are the ones who without mercy or any kind of compassion, bludgeoned their victim to death leaving him/her bleeding, terrified and helpless. It was this same child molester who fulfilled his pathologically and sickened desire on an innocent child, abused them badly, then scattered their body parts throughout the woods or simply burned them to death. When these criminals rape women, or stab helpless people to death or gun down hard working police officers and other people of society, why the hell should we give a damn about their feelings in the chair of death? If they say they’re fearful of needles then give them gas. If they’re afraid of gas, put them in the electric chair. It they’re afraid of electricity, hang them. If they’re afraid of all these methods may I suggest that we cram them all into an old military jet at night (I’m sure they’ll appreciate a free flight), give them whatever last meal they like along with a cigarette or a drink, and drop them out blindfolded hands tied behind their back and chains on their feet, in the middle of the Atlantic ocean. It’s not complicated. If society intend to see a drop in violent criminality and save hard earned tax payers dollars, they must be willing to do whatever is necessary to curb the cycle of crime and it they’re not willing to, stop complaining then. We must send criminals the right message and it must be a tough, stern message at that.
by devonblackwood.net | Mar 24, 2024 | Blog
In a world where mental health issues are increasingly coming to the forefront of societal concerns, the need for effective strategies to support and raise awareness has never been more urgent. Mental health, once a topic shrouded in silence and stigma, is now recognized as a critical aspect of overall well-being. However, despite this growing awareness, many individuals struggling with mental health issues continue to face significant barriers to accessing the support they need. Championing mental health requires a multifaceted approach, combining efforts to increase awareness, reduce stigma, and provide tangible support to those in need.
Breaking the Stigma
One of the first steps in championing mental health is breaking the pervasive stigma associated with mental illness. Stigma not only discourages individuals from seeking help but also perpetuates misconceptions about mental health conditions. Strategies to break this stigma include public education campaigns that highlight the prevalence and normalcy of mental health issues, as well as the sharing of personal stories by public figures and individuals from all walks of life. These narratives can humanize mental health struggles, making it clear that they are not signs of weakness but rather challenges that can affect anyone.
Enhancing Awareness Through Education
Education plays a pivotal role in enhancing mental health awareness. Schools, workplaces, and community centers can offer workshops and seminars on mental health, providing information on common mental health conditions, signs and symptoms of mental distress, and ways to seek help. Such programs can also educate participants on how to provide support to others who may be struggling, fostering a community-wide approach to mental health support.
Improving Access to Mental Health Services
Access to mental health services is a critical issue, with many individuals facing barriers such as cost, availability, and lack of insurance coverage. Championing mental health involves advocating for policies that improve access to mental health care, including the expansion of insurance coverage for mental health services and the increase of funding for mental health programs. Additionally, integrating mental health services into primary care settings can help to normalize these services and make them more accessible to a broader segment of the population.
Leveraging Technology
Technology offers innovative ways to support mental health. Teletherapy services, mental health apps, and online support communities can provide valuable resources to those who may not have access to traditional mental health services. These tools can offer convenience, anonymity, and immediate support, breaking down some of the barriers to seeking help. However, it is essential to ensure these resources maintain high-quality standards and are used as part of a comprehensive approach to mental health care.
Promoting Mental Health in the Workplace
Workplaces are increasingly recognized as important environments for championing mental health. Employers can implement policies and programs that promote mental well-being, such as flexible work arrangements, mental health days, and access to employee assistance programs (EAPs). Creating a workplace culture that values mental health can help reduce stress and prevent burnout, contributing to overall employee well-being and productivity.
Community Support Systems
Building strong community support systems is crucial for supporting individuals with mental health issues. This can include peer support groups, community mental health centers, and initiatives that connect individuals with mental health resources. Communities can also play a role in supporting mental health by creating safe, inclusive environments that promote well-being for all members.
Conclusion
Championing mental health requires a concerted effort from all sectors of society. By breaking the stigma, enhancing awareness through education, improving access to services, leveraging technology, promoting mental health in the workplace, and building community support systems, we can create a society where mental health is prioritized, and support is readily available. This comprehensive approach not only helps those struggling with mental health issues but also contributes to a healthier, more resilient society.
