I'd like to take some time to talk about something that has been heavy on my mind for the past few months. I hope you receive it well, even if my words fail me in being the most receptive-oriented as possible.
You know what has been the biggest part of college for me? Nope. Not learning about Movies, Bugs, Computers, Decision Support Systems, Operation Supply Chain Management techniques, Supply/Demand Analysis, or countless of others bits of knowledge that have been stored in my head. The biggest part is learning more about myself! And must say, I enjoy the person I am becoming, because it's the true Stephen.
First, Let's talk about one of my new found passions: Gun rights.
This is huge given the history of the school I attend. But I really feel this is going to be a big issue in the next couple of decades.
I've been reading a book called "Should We Fire God?" by Jim Pace, who just so happens to be a lead pastor at the church I attend during the year in Blacksburg. This book has really opened my eyes to why God allows certain things to occur. The main premise of the book uses April 16th as the big event but also relates also little everyday events that really bring it even closer to home.
Think about this:
The shooting that occurred that day took place over the matter of few hours, with most of the tragedy happening in only a few short minutes. If one student or professor, a law abiding citizen, had a concealed firearm when the shooting broke out, would the outcome have been the same? Would the number have been as high? Simple Logic tells me no.
College campus or not, when you only have seconds, the police are always minutes away.
Time to talk about the "sexier" topic, as my Business Law professor use to love saying
Gay Rights
Yep. I said. And you know what?! I support them. After living my whole life as someone who didn't think being gay was right or that homosexuals had the right to get married, I stand firm in rescinding that way of thinking and speak of love. Love is love. No matter what color, gender, or ethnicity.
I've done a good amount research on this topic because as living Second, (www.iamsecond.com), many traditionalist Christians may condemn my views. But I feel like the protestant focus has started a shift forming a what I would called, new way protestant ideology. I know a few people and even have 1 or 2 friends that are openly gay. I feel like why should someone else tell them they can't be happy and be in the union of marriage? Who are we to say you can't marry the same sex as you if you love them?
Not to bring controversy to what we are talking about (funny?), but I still personally being gay is a choice. But I do not condemn that choice! More power to you. You only get one life; live it to it's fullest potential and be happy with who you are!
It's really funny because growing up, I always poked fun at my more liberal friends. But look at the situation I'm in now! I'm no longer considering myself conservative. I have more moderate views (need to look at some of those other parties like Libertarian and such) than I ever thought I would have. And my favorite part? I'm finding out this is what I truly believe and feel.
Not to put down my upbringing, but I feel most people grow up believing what is around them, which is usually their parents/guardians beliefs. College has really broadened my eyes to the world around me. And just like the song says, All we need is love. Jesus said in John 13 To love everyone as I have loved you. I have really been letting this take over my spirit in my day to day activity. I make it a point to be overly nice and go above and beyond to help others out, with just little things.
Have I blabbed my mind enough? Probably
I have exactly 2 weeks left of these summer classes. I have 4 tests, a big homework assignment, and 10 days of classes. I am quite ready to be home.
Until next time fellow bloggers
Cheers.
Stephen
