Lessons from Noah’s flood — confessions of a progressive
After reading the point-counterpoint last week from David Lawson and Tom Powers, I was inspired to offer a third path forward. Having moved here last October from the suburbs of Atlanta, my husband and I have been blessed with the culture and kindness of everyone whose paths we have crossed. Having come to Lake Junaluska since the 1960s and 1970s, this place has always been my spiritual home, “Halfway to heaven.”
But our quick access to our glorious surroundings where we could view the stained-glass colors of fall leaves in a few minutes recently lay in stark contrast to the mountains of destroyed remnants of entire lives of our neighbors. And then, the character of Haywood Strong took action. Every group, every church, almost every person sprang immediately into serving their community in need. Cooking meals for the multitudes, miraculously turning a few loaves of bread into a feast. Providing every single need possible. Being the hands and feet of Christ. If the Bible says “We will know them from their fruits,” every single one of these proved their grit, strength, and their love and dedication to their neighbors.
That brings me to our most recent flood of political discontent — some might describe it as “Holy Discontent.” During these critical moments of life and death, not a single person that I heard asked someone in need, “Who are you voting for?” Republicans and Democrats alike both served and were served — no questions asked.
One thing that I have learned listening and hearing from those who helped bring about the surprising extent of victory is that many authentic Christians on both sides believe deeply that they are doing what God has told them to do. If that’s true, then God must be sending all a few lessons and blessings.
Our recent struggles in the United Methodist Church have taught me that no reconciliation can take place without first establishing relationships of trust. And trust cannot exist without mutual respect and humility. None of this currently exists in our attempts to move forward. No number of debates on policy and issues can be a source of solution — until these necessary steps are complete. We all “see through a glass darkly.” The problem is that we all have different blind spots. We can take this bright opportunity to reflect on our own. Garret K. Woodward, writer for The Smoky Mountain News, captured the essence of this last week: “The only way to grow as a human is to connect, especially with those you may disagree with. That’s real democracy.”
So what have been my lessons in reflecting on my own part in this divide?
Related Items
The meaningful moments that make memories
Destruction from the MAGA storm
Have we lost our way, America?
Beliefs about Biden/Harris just aren’t true
• Good people who are deeply motivated to solve problems have drastically different perspectives that we all need to hear to understand.
• Both sides share deep pain and fear for the future.
• Establishing relationships based on trust is not as difficult as it may seem — if we go into conversations with respect and humility, ensured up front.
• Perception becomes reality. Despite the best intentions of progressives, seeking justice and grace for all, many hearing that message have been left feeling that their voices have not been heard. Sometimes people need to preach, but being a great pastor is what brings grace to all.
• We must reflect on and assess what we all have in common and begin to work together to start there, healing our world.
And now, you must stand by for “the rest of the story.”
Saturday morning after I had just completed my full read of The Smoky Mountain News, I was sitting in the library at Lake Junaluska writing thank-you notes to the many incredible staff who indeed worked miracles in the aftermath of Helene. Suddenly, a happy gentleman pulled a seat right in front of me to help. Got to love God’s humor. You guessed it. David Lawson, my neighbor from down the hill, whom I had just met for the first time, was here for me to practice what I preach. So, David, I have heard you, and I appreciate all that you have done to help our neighbors. I am thrilled that we both agree that working together is the only way forward to the unity that our God is seeking for us all. We are better together. “Let there be Peace on Earth.”
Donna P. Fisher
Lake Junaluska
