June 26, 2023
I know that it’s important for everyone to feel included. Me, too. But just who is represented in the above? When I saw the term seven times in an article in the paper last week, it still took me a while to figure it all out. And I’m sure that there are some who want other letters added, because they feel they are just a little different, sexually, from any of the above proscribed groups.
When it comes to sexuality and our human experiences, we’re all different, at different times. Right now, I feel left out of the mix and can easily think of some other letters that could be added to the above. Maybe a minus(-)? Or (ME) for ‘Me, Too’, or just (DCA) for ‘Don’t Care Anymore’.
It is certainly sad that humanity is so torn apart that we feel more disconnected by our differences, than we’re connected by our shared humanity. Waaay back in the 70’s the United Church of Canada went through a crisis in deciding whether or not to accept people of ‘non-average’ sexuality. In the understanding of that tradition, to accept people as members inferred that they could also be candidates for all offices and positions in the church, clergy included. It was a debate that tore many from the United Church. But, it clarified much. It was decided, without a doubt, that all were welcome. If you want to exclude others, go to another church, for you are following another Christ and worshipping another God.
Why can’t we do the same? Why doesn’t the Pride flag have a gigantic E emblazoned on it, for EVERYONE? Humanity is more clearly, every day, issue by issue, becoming divided into two groups. One group sees that our unity, acceptance and commonality is the only Way forward. The other is in nearly total opposition, seeking to seek to remain small and isolated in their perceived purity and holiness.
This question covers more and goes beyond races and religion and needs to be named as such. Those who are E’s, need to see their unity as far more important than their old religions or tribes. Those who put their color, race, past or religion above all others, are part of the problem. Their assumptions are leading to death. If E-people are to succeed, they simply must learn to recognize each other and band together so to be fed and encouraged, in order to resist and combat the evil divisiveness that surrounds us.
So, go ahead with your 2SLGBTQI+, whatever it means. But more importantly use language that recognizes our unity more than our divisions. Yes, you are different. Get used to it. And let me celebrate your differences with you. And back at you. But time and energy to accentuate those differences just might not be the best use of your life. Why can’t we just get used to the fact that we probably are different in many ways, and being glad for that, get along with what is most important in this time of crisis and opportunity? We’re in this together. Becoming even more ‘together’ is the only way we out of our common mess.
Anthony, a card-carrying member of E.
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Anthony Gifford
118 Ford Street Kingston, ON K7K4Z6
Judy’s phone number 613 985 1029
anthonygifford42@gmail.com
