Comments on: I wish I could fix it..

By: A Conservative Teacher

A Conservative Teacher — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 01:25:36 +0000

People make mistakes, and many of the young out there are indeed communists. I see them every day in my class, and know that no amount of yelling at them will change their mind. The best thing to do is be patient and teach them. Induldge their little arguments and gently prod them down the path. If they argue that healthcare is a right, ask them to explain how it is a right. Ask to see the evidence. Make them read. If they only read one side, tell them that isn’t enough for you, they need to know both sides and then know why their side is right. Encourage them to read the side of right. I’m a conservative because it is the logically and morally correct position to have, not because I choose it or really even like it- it’s just the real view of the world, that’s all.

By: jgillman

jgillman — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 20:06:25 +0000

Today, I have had a chance to talk with the both of them. My daughter is as strong as I had hoped and would not allow my “rage” to overcome our relationship.

A night’s sleep also allowed me to keep a level head enough for him to clarify his positions to a more understandable point. It also allowed me to put some things in perspective as well.

I should note my emotional state last night was not one, where it would be easy to accept the certain nuances he has forwarded today, but like the shock of the first step into cold water when swimming, I can at least now though with due concern remain civil.

Perhaps as Duane suggests, the epiphany could happen. Nothing would make me happier. In the meantime, as for the family, prayers WERE answered. Thank you all.

By: Duane Hershberger

Duane Hershberger — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 18:01:20 +0000

Jason,

Sorry to hear this and sorrier to have no useful advice.

I don’t know what I would do, but I am pretty certain my reaction would be like yours.

The good news, excepting a Lenin-like sociopathy, would be that he actually cannot know what communism is, and could someday have an epiphany. The bad news is he presently rejects the possibility. I think Anna is right in that maybe that could change in time if some connection can be maintained.

By: Anna

Anna — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 17:09:50 +0000

It is difficult enough losing friends over things like this, but family…
I think the best thing to do is keep in contact. Don’t sever the ties yet, for the sake of your daughter.
Try to get him to meet with you, for the sake of your mutual love for your daughter. Get him to meet and discuss this issue.
Try to find the root cause for his being a communist. Why does he think he’s a communist? Why does he want to be one? What is it that he puts his faith in? Everyone has faith in something: themselves, government, mankind, science, etc. What we put our faith in effects our view on politics, relationships, science.. it effects our life-perspective. Does he think more government is the answer to life’s problems? Why? How can it fix the problems? Make him defend his position. Hash it out. Try to be civil. But at the same time, urgent. Let him know your concern for the happiness of your daughter. You want to resolve this for her sake. (Resolve it without you compromising your principals, of course.)
I hope that helps some.
I’ll be praying for you and your family.
-Anna

By: jgillman

jgillman — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 16:01:37 +0000

Marxism is evil. This is why it has me so upset. Thanks for your “valuable input” advancing the conversation.

By: Karl Peters

Karl Peters — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:06:59 +0000

The only truly life-changing experience I have ever seen bear real fruit was encounter with the Holy Spirit and the Gospel. While he may find Grace in an instant, you must understand that even after such an encounter that we can pray for, that he will need much more prayer to stay on track and eventually see new ways to see to others needs than a worldly Communism. Purity before God comes instantly by grace, purity in the day to day life takes longer and a lot of loving support. You must be in the battle for the long term, not for the quick fix. Perhaps quietly showing Christian compassion for others (including him!) that is not forced by a political system, but done from love of humankind, would allow him to see an answer to the injustices of the world that surpasses the “equality” of Communism. The trick is, we must exhibit this love, even to him, for it to be properly witnessed. I will add you to our prayers toward this end. Keep in touch by private mail if you so choose.

By: Brian Ramirez

Brian Ramirez — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 14:20:23 +0000

Sorry about your family situation Mr. Gillman. I suspect that is another reason my wife and I did not have children. I have had similar situations with my wifes family members and over the years we have agreed to just not discuss politics. These people are still blaming John Engler for their problems! I recall one event when a relative tried to get me started and I told him that there is no sense discussing anything with someone that cannot accept the facts and he proceeded to argue, for 2 hours over what a fact was. He eventually got frustrated and began to leave when I thanked him for proving my point, he spent another 20 minutes arguing that he did not do so!
Since then I have developed a strategy for diffusing the situation when someone wants to discuss politics. I ask the 2 questions and if they can answer them I will continue the conversation. 1st. question- Wher in the costitution do you find the phrase “seperation of chuch and state” and the 2nd. question- name the 4 branches of government. Many have answered the 1st question but none has figured out the 2nd. Executive , legislative, judicial and the media. I havent had to argue with a liberal since I have developed this concept and most won’t even try.
Good luck with you and your daughter!
Chef Brian

By: communist

communist — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 09:11:54 +0000

You’re a raging maniac who has no idea what Marxism is about. You deserved to have your world shook up.

By: What Do You Do When You Find Out Your Son-in-Law is a Communist? « AmeriCAN-DO Attitude

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 06:35:02 +0000

[...] You Find Out Your Son-in-Law is a Communist? Wow. I can’t imagine having to deal with this situation. My first thought, though, is wondering why on earth would my daughter marry such a person? I [...]