>We are the teachers here, yes we are supposed to separate church and state
>'in the classroom' in the public sector, but why limit our discussion here
>to just public sector teachers and their views.
>I read all with an open mind.
I have to say I agree with this statement. As a non-Christian (agnostic--but
raised Methodist) living in the Bible belt. I put up with (Christian)
religious affirmations on a regular basis. Just as if I was living
elsewhere, I might have to put with Budhist, Hindu, Muslim, etc. I don't
think one should have to censor oneself out of fear of insulting someone
elses beleifs. If so, we might as well shut this listserv down, as somebody
will always be offended by something.
Often I wish I had the comfort that faith obviously brings to some people
(as has been obvious on the list lately)--my mother has days to weeks to
live, a little faith that she will go on to a better place would be nice--so
why deny this to people just because we don't agree with it, or it makes us
"uncomfortable"?
I am all for the seperation of church and state and would be one of the
first ones to jump to its defense should the "Religious Right" put it under
attack and would scream all the way to the state board of education should
somebody try to talk to my child about "god" or have them sing religious
"christmas" songs. But we are not "in school" here, so as far as I'm
concerned, feel free to talk about anything you want. There is always the
delete key.
Donald Peters
P.S.: Before this brings up another thread we don't need, yes we celebrate
"christmas" but not in the same sense. My wife is Wiccan/Pagan (although
raised Catholic) so we celebrate Yule. I tried to get behind her on this,
but couldn't overcome my doubt. We still have our little celebration though
and it makes the household a more joyous place to be. Nothing wrong with
that.
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