Taking A Thought For A Walk

Just been listening to the Jeremy Vine show (Radio 2), where part of the time was spent discussing the letter of a 12 year old (Catholic school educated) girl objecting to the proposed opening of a sex shop in cozy middle-class Altrincham.

The letter, whilst reasonably eloquent, was wildly extreme in it's sentiment; it seemed an equation was being made that saw all clientele of such establishments as either paedophiles, rapists or perverts! Ultimately though, it all smacked of adult inspired NIMBYism; the girl when questioned, acknowledged that there was "a place" for such shops but, not in the centre of Altrincham. A spokesperson for the company concerned quite rightly commented that, if they are full of the 'types' suggested by the letter, there shouldn't be a place for them.

Several callers commented on the fact that paedophiles are more likely to be found at the schoolgates or swimming pools; why should they go somewhere where children aren't allowed?

My real worry is that she may simply be be passing on 'received' information that sex is not for pleasure but, solely for procreation. Sex, as solely for procreation, is a little bit like alcohol being only legitimate if one intends to get 'legless'!

Regardless of one's own predilections, it is always good to be exposed to a plurality of opinions. The views and values of any given religion are there for the followers of that tradition and, not to be imposed on society at large. For myself, the primary value is to have respect for my fellow human beings, which entails the rejection of any abusive relationships in everyday commercial/political or personal life. Faith and Hope I cannot live without and, most importantly, I long to share that love which I am fortunate enough to have received.

The Christ I follow was made incarnate (en-fleshed) so that we may have life and, have it abundantly.