1:18 p.m. - 2007-05-16
part of the Jerry legacy
I grew up in the shadow of Jerry Falwell Industries. I don't think that's the official name, but it seems easier to lump the Moral Majority, Old Time Gospel Hour, LCA, and LU under that heading. I could tell tales of arch-rivalry between his schools and mine, and my (usually vocal) childhood loathing of all he stood for. But in some ways, that would be stooping to his level, so I won't.
Growing up in a place where the most famous person made his name through intolerance, negativity and blame taught me several things. But here is the best thing I learned from Jerry. I learned how *not* to behave. Patience, tolerance, listening--that is Falwell's legacy to me. Because it struck me, at some point in my youth, that acting with grace and love would be to act as his opposite, thereby proving I was better than him. Petty and childish motivation, but... well, I was under 18.
I'm not God. I've come far enough to know that *it *is *not* *my* *job* to judge, and I'm old enough to realize I don't want that job anyway. More joy in leaving *judgement* to someone who has all the information. I confess that casting my opinion ballot still happens--sometimes adamently, but I try really hard not to judge an individual on a personal level. I simply work from the information I have and try to help as best I can. And I pray--one thing on which Mr. Falwell might agree with me.
I am curious to see what his legacy is for the rest of our hometown....
