As many heard yesterday, Jason Collins has become the first openly gay athlete in one of the 4 major sports while still playing, a center for the Washington Wizards. Revealed in the cover story of Sports Illustrated, Collins talks about the relief of being forthright. This confession has resulted in a media feeding frenzy, with leading figures, including the president, adding their two cents on this historical day.
While one closet has been opened, another closet remains shut, locked for similar reasons. For many growing up in the 1980’s, faith was communicated as something private, saved for your home and family. Thus, many secret believers kept their mouths shut, fearful that they might be exposed or labeled as a Jesus freak. According to Glenn Beck and Rush Limbaugh, many Christian’s in Hollywood continue this tradition today. In their minds, coming out could either ruin their career or lead to less opportunities.
I wish there was common ground, a meeting place to resolve conflicting beliefs, yet religion has a history of dividing families, states and nations. Freewill is a powerful option, a choice to obey or disobey, accept or refuse and express yourself or hold feelings in. In the end, God allows you to make your own decision, Romans 1:18-20, letting your own desires take over. However, my prayer is that as individuals come out of the other closet, the media will have the same admiration and respect as they do for Jason. May love, keep the great American melting pot together.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 