Tuesday, October 31, 2006

Guess Who's Teaching Your Children?

RUSD teacher Todd Johnson had this to say about Republicans/Christians:

"Republicans have created a ghoul (I call it the "Christian Racketeer") to make religion a political weapon. They don't get the four most important words in American English: Equal protection under law. Their craving is for autocracy, an ayatollah all their own. They are unfit to mingle with free people."

I am sure that Mr. Johnson is able to contain his contempt for conservatives and Christians while teaching our children. Or perhaps his attitude explains the home schooling movement.

11 comments:

Anonymous said...

Now you see why I would not want a liberal friend.

Denis Navratil said...

This guy has gone over the edge into madness.

Brenda said...

Yes, Todd may have gone over the edge but not all "liberals "feel the same way as he.

I consider myself somewhat of a liberal (at least left of center)in social matters, but recognize that others may not feel or believe in the same ideals as I.

The only people I do have contempt for are people who are not willing to discuss issues rationally or be open-minded to new ideas.

My philosphy of life is constantly changing; it is a very fluid process.

My beliefs and values now are much more to the right in many areas than they were 10 years ago, they are probably even different than they were 10 months ago.

Just remember for every liberal whack job, there is probably a corresponding whack job on the conservative side.

Denis Navratil said...

There are corresponding whack jobs on the right, of course, but I sincerely doubt that they are teaching in our public schools. Can you imagine a public school teacher declaring that secular humanists or Democrats do not deserve to walk among free people? I can't.

Denis Navratil said...

Brenda, you wrote, "The only people I do have contempt for are people who are not willing to discuss issues rationally or be open-minded to new ideas."

Then you should have contempt for Todd Johnson, or at least his statement, because he does not convey a rational or open minded position on Republicans or Christians. It would be hard to have a dialogue with anyone who states that you do not deserve your freedom, because of your party affiliation or religious beliefs. I share your contempt.

Denis Navratil said...

To Brenda, I am just curious. Would you mind sharing with me/us the positions that you hold that you consider liberal? I promise to explore them with an open mind. I make no promises about Wade. Just kidding Wade.

Anonymous said...

Now, let me ask this...is Mr. Johnson saying that people(republicans) are using religion (christianity) to push their agendas forward? Because if that is in essence what he is saying then I somewhat agree with him. I have heard an awful lot of Bible passages quoted surrounding some of the issues in this election.
However, Mr. Johnson definitely has crossed a line with his comment. It was in my opinion, a bit harsh and unchristian.
Both of these issues(politics and religion) are so personal. When it comes to politics, teach the kids. Talk about the three branches of government and what their role is. But please don't imprint them with your personal views. When it comes to religion, teach the kids that there are different religions in the world. But again, do not imprint them with your personal views.
Its MY job as their parent to instruct them in our faith and instill values within them. They can grow up and form their own faith based on their own beliefs; and form their own political opinions based on their personal values.

Anonymous said...

I would like to ask Mr. Johnson how how feels about such things as: The Pledge of Allegiance, The Declaration of Independence, and the money that we carry around in our pockets?

Brenda said...

Denis,

My few remaining glimmers of “liberalism” would include civil liberties-all people deserve the right to enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness (granted it is with a consenting adult or does not harm or maim anyone).

People should feel free to worhsip and express their religion as they choose; whether they are a Methodist, Catholic, Muslim, Hindu
or Wiccan.

Another one I am a little squishy on is the death penalty. I think that I could support it if it wasn’t mandated, and provided as another choice for punishment.

Energy is another area where I consider myself liberal – I think all the stops need to be pulled out when exploring natural alternative fuels.

I thought there would be more, but apparently I AM becoming a Republican.

Denis Navratil said...

Brenda, I am with you on the pursuit of happiness, life and liberty stuff, as well as freedom of religion. I don't think those are exclusively liberal ideas. Squishy on the death penalty is understandable. I favor it, but I don't trust government all that much. And on energy, you sound a bit liberal. I think an unfettered market will produce more energy, including alternative fuel sources. Thanks for sharing.

Anonymous said...

Like Brenda, I too am a mix. While I do have some conservative views on a mesh of issues, I have to say that when it comes to energy I am very liberal.