Myths, Lies, and Mercy

Exposing the forces that perpetuate and criminalize homelessness

Uncategorized

Mercy / Uncategorized

The Inhospitality of Sodom

  For most of us, hospitality brings to mind the welcoming in or entertainment of family and friends. Or we think of the hospitality industry – hospitals, hotels, restaurants, etc. But what did it look like in the early days of our shared humanity? If we examine some of our oldest records, specifically the ancient Hebrew narratives referred to as the Old Testament, we see that it was far more than having friends over or care and provisions offered from a facility with dollar signs attached. According to those who spoke on behalf of the god whom these writings credit with creating the heavens and earth and everything within, showing hospitality was intentional, engaging, and not an option. This god, according to these writings, I will argue, destroyed an entire town for their inhospitality. During the 2nd millennium B.C.E., several peoples had come to settle in the Fertile Crescent from...

Rights / Uncategorized

Democratic Dictators

  The idea that the majority rules gives those numbered among the majority comfort, and those in the minority little hope for anything but the crumbs that fall from their table. Sometimes the majority will do the right thing, but generally when it is only of benefit to them. If a community democratically elects to do the wrong thing – an unjust thing, then a democracy is no more admirable than a dictatorship that does the same. There is no honor in doing the wrong thing, simply because it has been dictated by the majority – in a ‘democratic’ way. Had those communities been allowed to There are times when a community must be forced into doing the right thing, even if and when it contradicts the desires and demands of the majority. That is, if the political power structure at the time is so arranged to, (by a majority...