The Stigma of Strangers ~ Seekers of Hope

Greetings Dear Reader,

What of those who come here with support, good purpose, and something to add to our way of life?  We make it difficult even for those who are not dependent upon public assistance or some kind of charity.  We put in place great hurdles for all but the wealthiest.

It used to be that if you came here honestly to “seek your fortune” you were welcomed and given hope.  We have lost that.  Rather, we have cast is aside.  We make is difficult. 

The other place we choose to set up high hurdles and snares to success is family.  We participate in keep families apart when all they wish is to live together in freedom.  I know a man who only sees his wife once a year because even though his work here is of enough value to keep renewing his visa, we will not allow him permanent status or to bring his wife and children here to be with him.  We have turned his American Dream into a nightmare of loneliness and separation. 

Before we get into the difficulties of what some people might do or how they might take advantage we must consider our obligation to them as humans first.  It troubles me that our conservative brothers who demand that we live out family values do not demand this when it comes to those seeking a place here.  We seem to cut off our values when it comes to the stigma of strangers.

As a follower of Christ, I am not allowed to differentiate between the needs of “Americans” and the needs of those outside of our borders.  God sees them all the same and desires for them to be well.  He desires that his followers show all the love and care they can muster.  I need not accept all of their values nor should I if they conflict with my faith.  That never means that I should visit upon them loneliness or judgement in place of love and care.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

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