jbg:
.. Tom Bombadil was a character in Lord of the Rings that refused to get involved in the power plays of the "good and bad" forces. And because he was free from the desire to dominate, he was also unable to be dominated. The ring had no power on him.
Your approach is identical to my dear precious mother’s 1916-2006, who, in the (1960-70’s) was saddened to see a favorite word of her lifetime, “gay,” hijacked. She tried to refuse to acknowledge it, i respected her and her wishes, to this day, i do not use the hijacked form, and, sadly, i avoid any use of the word, as it has been made a prideful banner for the hijacked use, close to exclusivity.
When i use the words homosexual or sodomy, i’m often chided for insensitivity/lack of respect.
Certainly, my dear mother with her junior high level formal education, and whatever level formal education any person has, has the right to personal opinions, philosophies, habits, et al.
In the U.S., that was formerly a valued personal freedom. My mother, and now my grown daughter (with a university degree) both hold strong beliefs that others should be able to “read their minds.”
And then comply. Because, “you know,” they are simply+obviously right and that should be sufficient. They are informal laypersons. They aren’t professional educators.
i’m surprised to find these stated traits/philosophies in one who meets this description:
Page 8:
HK:
.. This then JBG is why, Josh, the Admiral [GaryK] and myself have offered such pushback against your doubling-down on the use of 'safe space' to describe the program you're enacting at EMS.
Not because we disagree with your methods, broadly speaking, but because the term itself comes loaded with added layers of meaning that you, well-read and intelligent person that you are, are aware of and are either choosing to elide [elude] or ignore.
jbg,
i’m beyond impressed at the quality+depth of caring effort directed personally to you from some of the most insightful members present on this forum. they have no obligation to devote a moment to you for any reason. yet here you are generously and freely gifted. i see it as priceless. i hope you benefit. i do. every time i read. gifts of grace.
esp because you are evidently in position that directly affects many others who rely upon you, i hope their efforts aren’t ignored.
these men are
jbg:
.. They are real people with names. They matter. They are image bearers.
These men are experienced in walking the talk of their faith. Jesus is their True North, as you might say. i implore you to take it all in. In your position, you need all the support you can get. God does not leave you alone, to your own devices.
i pray for you, your loved ones, your students and school to be protected+led by the Holy Spirit.
