A Strange Dichotomy

Here in the mountains of western North Carolina we are seeing the development of a strange dichotomy. Many of the natives of this region are true "yellow dog Democrats." The name comes from their long allegiance to the democratic party, often spanning generations. This partisan allegiance is so strong that it is said they will vote for a 'yellow dog' so long as it has a (D) after its name.

Many of these people also belong to very conservative churches, in particular Baptist Churches. For many years they enjoyed a peaceful co-existence. Their religious beliefs and their political beliefs were close enough that they could safely ignore the differences. The National Democratic Party was careful to downplay any differences, because it needed the 'Solid South' in order to stay in power.

In these troubled times, the natives are restless, because this strange dichotomy has developed. Their churches are becoming more activist, and more stridently espousing ultra-conservative causes. Too often these causes are diametrically opposed to the platform of the democratic party.

What are they to do? They love their church; they love their party but the two seem bent on divorce.
This most recently came to light when the pastor of a local Baptist Church attempted to oust members who had voted for the democratic Presidential candidate. This created national headlines.

Some of these people are suffering mental anguish. The hated Republican Party now seems to be pushing the causes they would like to support, but they have always voted Democratic. Their ancestors would probably roll over in their graves should their descendents vote anything but Democratic.

Religious Intolerance

A local Baptist Church is now trying to set a new world's record for intolerance. They have kicked out (the proper term is 'withdrew fellowship'; the local term is 'churched') all registered Democrats. Now that is a hoot! Apparently this church must believe that only Republicans are in favor of Mother, God, flag and apple pie, and against sin. All others must be the reverse.

The stated reason for this action was that the church (read the Pastor) decided that anyone not supporting President Bush 110% (and that would include most Democrats) must be in favor of abortion; gay rights; zoning; removing the Ten Commandants from Court Houses, and all other sorts of sinful things. Therefore they are not fit to be a member of this holy of all holy churches.

Hell! Back in Salem, they were only hunting witches. These bigots are after fellow church members and neighbors.

I can't wait to see if this makes the national news. The press will have a field day!

Media Stupidity

Once again some of the national media have demonstrated their total incompetence. They either will not read; cannot read; or just refuse to pay attention to history.

There was a picture over the weekend showing President Bush and the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia walking along holding hands. The media went into a frenzy! They reported all sorts of dire and dark interpretations of this.

BALDERDASH! Don't these idiots ever read? If they bothered to read anything except their own columns they would know this is common practice in Arabian countries (also in Asia). I saw this many times in Vietnam and also in Taiwan. It is common for men to hold hands while walking with a good friend. There is no homosexual connotation here. It is just what they do. The same is true for Arabian countries.

But, some of the national reporters tried to go 'balls to the wall' on this. In most cases, they have been exposed to be extremely stupid, and have been slapped down.

Yet the national media wonders why they are so often ignored.