Inconsistency

I know some of you may think this is another attack or whatever, but it is a honest concern on my part. I have noticed that bigot, anti-Catholic, Catholic basher, or some variant of names have been used rather freely around here by some of the Catholics. I do not deny that there are some here that do seem to be vehemently anti-Catholic. However, I am concerned because these accusations from Catholics are becoming rather freely used for anyone who may disagree or question some others around here. This is very bothersome because what is happening is that some Catholics are acting just like the ones that oppose them.

This just bothers me because I have read some books recommended, talked with some here, listened to things, etc. and I am called anti-Catholic and a bigot. However, I have shown much more openness or friendliness than some or most of the Catholics here. I could very easily just start calling many here anti-Protestant, bigots, etc. because many dismiss my arguments from the get-go as wrong. They really won't even consider them. When I call some on false or misleading information, I am told I am assasinating characters. It just seems to me that there is a big double standard going on here. Why does it seem that Catholics are not even open to considering the other side, yet they want others to listen to their positions? Why can't they step outside of their box and try to see their beliefs as others do (as I have tried to do, though I must admit, it is difficult).

I do not write as one who is perfect or superior. I am not trying to "attack" anyone. I just would like some answers, if possible. I feel that many Catholics here have just as much dislike for Protestants as some Protestants have for the Catholics. To me, that should not be so, especially if what you claim is true. So please, do not fly off the handle in response here. In fact, I probably won't engage in discussion much for a while because I have been wasting too much time here and some recent things have really disturbed me from some members here. I just ask that you think on some of these things and really consider them. It is easy to react out of anger and call names (believe me, I know), but I think this issue deserves much more than that.

And for the record, I do not hate Catholics or make it my goal to undermine them at all costs. I am not a bigot and do not set out to belittle Catholics. I consider some of you here my friends. I do disagree with some of your positions, but that does not make me a bigot. That makes me someone who disagrees with you. I have not always reacted in the correct manner, and for that I apologize to any I may have offended. However, because of recent events and accusations heaped on me, I need to step back a while and cool my jets and reassess the situation, starting with myself.

Submitted in the love of Christ,
Neal

[ October 03, 2003, 05:28 PM: Message edited by: neal4christ ]

 

Even though I may disagree with you guys, this I do try to understand. I admit, I wouldn't like it. I know it has to be hard when there are many here (more on my side, I admit) who post things before they even think about it for two seconds. And yes, there are some who deserve the name bigot, that I do not deny. What bothers me is that it being used rather loosely and freely (I am not say you in particular, I am speaking generally).

I look forward to the day that calm, thought-out discussions can occur from both sides. Thank-you for the kind words thus far.

In Christ,
Neal

P.S. I must admit, Brother Ed, when I first encountered you we rubbed the wrong way. But after a while, I grew to love ya, man! I do hope all is well with you and your family (if there are any specific prayer concerns, especially with regards to your wife, please PM me.)