Dominic, I see your point. However, I'd like to say that practicing tolerance on all fronts is important. Treating everyone with respect, not just the homeless population, is important. Doing so without unleashing even a smidgeon of our own personal agendas (as you showcased by writing this article, and as I undoubetdly will in the course of my response) is nearly impossible.
Where do we find tolerance or compassion for those who mean well with their actions, but just don't seem to be going about it in the most effective manner? Maybe those are the people we should be helping and educating, instead of criticizing. Maybe in their ignorance, they don't realize the abusive nature of it. I highly doubt giving homeless people ways to passive agressively, or negatively take back power will solve the problem.
I find it hopeful that people/organizations of all kinds, religious or not, are trying to reach out to those they perceive as less fortunate. I certainly don't expect all of them to handle it perfectly for everyone, as we are all different. But is it fair to say that they might reach someone?
No person or organization will ever handle the masses effectively - we're a kaleidescope of personalities. But as individuals, if we have an enlightened perspective on a specific scene due to our own experiences, I wonder if a more effective method of change would be for us to show a loving willingness toward educating those who want to provide a service to that specific genre, but lack the sharpest tools for the job.
If we spend our time ridiculing those we believe are governing a situation abusively, aren't we feeding them the same bitter pill? I know if someone shows me love when trying to educate me, I respond much more openly to change.
I'm not condoning either side - what I was hoping to convey is that we were all born sinners - even the Pope. We all have our own challenges.
I was raised in a Christian home by parents who had little tolerance towards many "worldly" issues. It was because of their own upbringing. When I grew up and went out on my own, I learned I really knew nothing. I experienced many different views and ultimately came to the conclusion that I don't want to judge others because I'm only human myself. What I choose to do is try to love and accept everyone while growing in God's love. I still hardly know anything, but I hope to learn more.
Michael, your points are thought provoking. I'll look into them more deeply. Thanks.
I am not writing this to pass judgment on anyone's lifestyle. In fact, I believe in Mother Theresa's statement, "if you judge people, you have no time to love them." However, I do want to point out that the New Testament does in fact make statements about homosexuality. Please see 1 Corinthians chapter 6 and 1 Timothy chapter 1.
Both clearly state, "men who practice homosexuality" will not inherit the kingdom of God. I am certain the Vatican bases its decision to oppose the issue due in some part to the New Testament.
That said, I would also like to point out that the above-mentioned chapters have much to say about liars, idolaters, enslavers, the sexually immoral and adulterers. I can't speak for anyone else, but I feel pretty safe in saying there are very few, if any of us (yes, including the Pope) who haven't lied in awhile.