Southern Living Photos
It took me quite a while to decide what an appropriate post would be for today. It has been a week of sadness, shock and broken hearts as we’ve witnessed an unthinkable crime that took the lives of nine incredible people in Charleston. I rarely mention religion or politics on this blog, it just isn’t my way because I feel we are all free to think and be what we believe. I have worked not to use this blog as a platform for anything other than my love for this wonderful place where I am blessed to live and to share my love for the written word. But I have to say something today and I hope not to offend anyone.
I was raised in Texas in the 1960’s, my father was a Southern Baptist minister. The scenario could have been one of prejudice and racism, but my upbringing was anything but that. My father helped those in need, no matter what their color. He saw to it that a woman who helped my mother clean our home got a college education so that she could better herself. Not once was a racial slur ever thought or said in our household. I was never taught that there was a difference, even though the “negroes” as they were then called sat at the back of the bus and had to use a separate bathroom. My parents taught us to see all people in the same light, not to judge and always to respect others. So, today, on father’s day, I not only honor my father, I honor all that he taught me. And I remember those lives that were cut short so senselessly. I remember hearing Mahalia Jackson on recordings when I was growing up and today I’m sharing one of my favorites. I believe each of those nine souls were met with an outstretched hand of love when they reached the other side. Our souls have no race, they are not from any origin other than of our Creator……we are all one, joined by love and I pray for the end of violence in our world.
One Response
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Phil Morrison Says:
Melissa … Thank you for your heartfelt remarks regarding the Charleston situation! You are the best!
