Gov. Perry at it again
It's no secret that I cannot stand Rick Perry, and it has nothing to do with his political affiliation. It has everything to do with his handling of the Willingham case. As long as I live I will never forget the words of the unlucky staffer who got to tell me that the execution would not be delayed - "because the governor saw no reason to postpone" it. Really??? The fact that we presented him with evidence that there was no crime - and therefore he couldn't be guilty - is not a reason?
I've often wondered what it is like to have to live with a decision like that. Apparently if you have no conscience it's no big deal. I'm sure Gov. Perry never lost any sleep over it - unless it was worrying how it affected public perception. I thought that was bad enough, but then he went on the offensive when questions were raised through the Forensic Science Commission. Not only did he insist on Willingham's guilt, he successfully derailed the investigation - something I've written on more than I probably should.
So with that background it was more than I could handle to hear about Gov. Perry's call for a day to pray for America. I'm sure it's just a coincidence that he recently admitted what everyone already knew - he wants to president. So he has graciously invited other governors to join him.
I know others have issues with the promotion of religion. That's not what bothers me though. Faith is extremely important to me, and something I try to live out. Maybe that's why it infuriates me to see people (i.e. politicians and public officials) wrap themselves in faith. They do it hoping to garner votes and support. To me there is nothing more despicable than using faith to secure your own goals. True faith is the exact opposite - your wants and desires are secondary.
I also find it maddening that Gov. Perry says we need to pray for forgiveness - not that I don't believe that. I just don't believe he has any intention of actually doing it. If so, how about forgiveness for executing an innocent person, and using faith to get yourself elected president. Of course what he really means is everyone else needs to pray for forgiveness.
My only hope is that he will follow the paths of others who have tried to convince use what great people of faith they are. Witness the recent downfall of Jim Tressell and indictment of John Edwards. Perhaps it will catch up with Gov. Perry in the same way.
I'm sure there will be a big turnout for this event - after all, who wants to oppose prayer? I'm also reasonably sure (or at least hopeful) that everyone will see this for what it is - the start of the campaign for president.
And by the way. In almost every church I have been in over the last 10 or so years (and maybe longer - that's just the extent of my memory) religious leaders have been praying for our nation and our elected officials. We don't know a presidential candidate to tell us we need to do it.
