The title really says it all. This will be my most challenging blog to write. Before I get into the blog I would love to explain why this is so hard for me
1. The subject matter is extremely personal.
When I say this is personal I don’t mean this is uniquely about me. I mean that this topic impacts me as it does millions of other people. Everyday I am faced with it in some way/shape/form. Nonetheless my goal isn’t to respond subjectively but rather objectively as best I can.
2. The subject matter can be controversial.
Anytime this issue is spoken of an awkward feeling flows through the souls of each individual. Everyone lands in a different spot on this spectrum ranging from one extreme to the other. My goal isn’t to come off as an extremist nor to sound if I am finger pointing. I simply endeavor to present the truth of any given issue (as best I can), while being honest to what does and doesn’t exist in our culture.
3. The subject matter makes me uncomfortable.
For years I ignored this topic. I walked around with my head down afraid to face the truth. As I developed more relationship with people who couldn’t identify with me it was even more cause to keep this hidden deep with . No longer can I live that way.
4. The subject matter is extremely important.
For us to move forward we need to accurately understand the issues and learn how to work together. All to often word are spoken, “jokes” are made, but it is never taken into account how they land on hearts of the hearers.
I am talking about the issue of Race/Ethnicity especially as it relates to people in America.
There is an element of prejudice (preconceived opinion that is usually not based on reason or actual experience) that all people have. I believe that some people are not intentionally prejudice but rather they have learned it over time or they’re ignorant in dealing with people from a different culture.
Stay tuned as I have a few blogs coming on this topic just to paint a different picture than you have seen in the past… or maybe not 🙂
I look forward to hearing your thoughts and experience in the contexts of the gospel of grace.
Thanks brother! Keep me in prayer this isn’t the easiest thing to do! 🙂