Response to Kim:)

Kim, I don't think it's at all silly to wonder about such things. In fact, I appreciate your care. I'm always glad for your comments and input.

As you said, Obama has been working, writing and speaking to bring about One America and a United America for years. He has yielded much fruit in the pursuit of unity. I think one of the reasons he understands the need for unity is because of his spiritual training background.

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Wikipedia describes Liberation theology as follows:

"Liberation theology focuses on Jesus Christ as not only the Redeemer but also the Liberator of the oppressed. It emphasizes the Christian mission to bring justice to the poor and oppressed, particularly through political activism."

And Black Liberation theology as:

Black theology or Black liberation theology is a Christian theology of liberation. The field of black liberation theology received its name in the 1960s and includes in its history Pan Africanists from earlier centuries who used the teachings of Christianity and/or the vehicle of the black church as foundational to their efforts for securing a self-determining existence for Africans.

Black liberation theology is theology from the perspective of oppressed people. It seeks to interpret the gospel of Jesus against the backdrop of historical and contemporary racism. The message of black theology is that the African American struggle for liberation is consistent with the gospel--every theological statement must be consistent with, and perpetuate, the goals of liberation.

This theology maintains that African Americans must be liberated from multiple forms of bondage—social, political, economic and religious. This liberation involves empowerment and seeks the right of self-definition, self-affirmation and self-determination."

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I think his speech really explained well that the national reaction to Rev. Wright's sermons prove that the "most segregated hour in America is on Sunday mornings". It seems to me that what has been revealed in this, is that this is a very common theme in black churches across America, and we still have a long way to go in healing the hurts caused by the great sin of racism.

While Rev. Wright's convictions are shocking to anyone outside of the black church, I think it is very important for us to have understanding and grace for where the leaders of the black churches have come from, and through. The fact that Obama attended a church which promotes liberation theology (which is part of the gospel: to feed the poor, clothe the naked, care for orphans and widowed, etc.) and yet, comes out from under it with a revolutionary vision for unity and equality for ALL people, speaks to his integrity and character even more so.

He has proven that he has a unified perspective and vision for America - like you mentioned, and he has worked toward "perfecting our union" for so long. He understands that the injustices of this world are not a "black" problem. They are a problem for every American.

I think understanding liberation theology and promoting it are two different things. It would be one thing if he weren't standing up and raising his very influential voice to make a difference in this area to bring unity. Remember, too, that he got the title of his book, Audacity of Hope, from Rev. Wright. Wright did consistently speak about hope for a better future. It's a shame that he's being defined by these few damaging rants after 30 years of being respected.

I don't know if I'm addressing your disappointment, or not. Feel free to clarify if I've completely missed the point.:)

much love, dear friend.