Diana- I am grateful to you for your essay, as I have been hoping for a way to deconstruct all that has happened regarding the marriage/divorce of politics and religion. Your commentary lifted me and your words were what I longed to say- I just have not been able to sort through all the junk out there. These uncertain times and the forces of evil and division force me to speak up and become more active in my community, both in conversation and in service. As the Republicans meet this week, I expect to hear too many threats of what will happen if Trump is not reelected. I also imagine there will be awful rhetoric against anyone not white, privileged, and male, with asides to tempt women and other minorities to believe the lies told by the far right. I will not give up my hope for all that can happen in our country, neighborhoods, and families, as I am buoyed by the message of the Democrats. As a mature believer, I know that blessings are better than empty, fiery threats, and I look forward to that time when the compassion of Jesus, the open arms to embrace each person, and the love we share with each other will triumph. Thank you again for your shared words; I will be reading this again and again.