Majority of residents support commission
To assert that “ignorance, injustice and deep prejudice are alive and well in Rowan County” as some have done only shows their own ignorance.
County commissioners are elected by residents to represent them and be their collective voice. The majority of Rowan County folks oppose same-sex “marriage.” Although the majority is supposed to rule, a mobilized, vocal minority seeks to impose its views on all.
According to the Barna Research Group, only 3 percent claim to be homosexual. How prejudiced and unfair of them to assume that those who don’t agree with their agenda are automatically “intolerant, religious bigots, and homophobic hate-mongers.” While true in some cases, most of those opposed to this lifestyle do so out of concern for the individual as well as society at large. Students of history know that its lessons clearly document the chaos and breakdown of nations that embraced homosexual sex. George Santayana said: “Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” The consequences of such behavior destroy not only the individual but also their families, friends and communities. I know ó one of my favorite people who decided he was gay just died.
For those who want to bring the Bible into this discussion, at least make an effort to “rightly divide the Word.” Either accept its clear teaching against same-sex relations or have the integrity to say you think God’s Word is wrong on this matter. Cherry picking which scriptures you determine are true and which are wrong is a dangerous way to build a theological perspective.
Twenty years from now, we won’t be having this discussion. By then, moral absolutes will be removed from society. I’m thankful that we still have a few courageous politicians who seek to do what is best for our county ó regardless of political correctness.
ó Renee Coates Scheidt
China Grove
A magnificent presentation
Hats off to the Rowan History Club, Ramei L. Evans and Terry Holt for an excellent presentation of the Magnificent Eight. This is a group of local black artists who have exhibited over the years a wide range of talents, from producing art to producing magic. Members of the group are Carlton Jackson, Virginia Shuford, Norris Hollaway, J. Alston, Bryant Norman, James Donaldson, Michael Kirksey and Jacqulynne Black.
The presentation included a beautiful duet by J. Alston and his wife, with an exhibit of his black and white portrait renditions. Carlton Jackson, Michael Kirksey, Virginia Shuford, Norris Hollaway and Bryant Norman presented mini-exhibits of their artistic works.
In addition to the presentations, James Donaldson presented his artistic mini-exhibit and a poetry reading, which included titles like “On Being Alone,” “Snow” and “Not My America, Not Your America, Not Their America, But Our America …” At the end of the presentations, the engaging audience was surprised by an artist, Channin Jackson, who stated that the program was so inspiring, he now wants to paint and to be a part of groups like the Magnificent Eight.
It was a joy to see represented in Salisbury all races of people in a cultural function supporting black artists, and it is hoped that individuals like Ramei L. Evans will continue to produce presentations like this one of extremely high quality to the public at large.
ó James Donaldson
Salisbury