I Believe

A handful of testaments + a reading suggestion

1. I believe that there are an infinite amount of ways to say “diversity” or “equity” or whatever Word Bullies who think they hold the deed on language try to take away.

2. I believe it is better to live these words than it is to tell about them anyway.

3. I believe reporting from a perspective that didn’t come directly from John Calvin or someone with a last name that starts with “Van” or ends in “sma” does not hinder truth or faith.

4. I believe stories should challenge, expand, change, startle, soften, and send us. They should not stunt us. They should not keep us small.

5. I believe anyone who makes rules, mandates, declares what is not only a sin but is a confessional sin should follow my Read Aloud Program:¹

   Every day, preferably after lunch, you must be quiet for an entire hour.

   1. During this hour, you will be read aloud to.

   2. You will not choose who reads to you, or what books will be read. I will most likely have that responsibility.

   3. During the hour you are being read to, you can color, knit, make friendship bracelets, or some such craft. You may not talk.

   4. When the story is done, you can say, “Thank you,” and that is it.

   5. At the end of 365 days, we will meet over a cup of coffee and chocolate chip cookies and I will decide if the Read Aloud Program should continue.

6. I believe you are trying your hardest to make the world small because deep down you know this world does not belong to you. You are fighting a battle that’s been over for thousands of years. It is done.

7. I believe fear and frustration come from being unsure of what the future holds, or from refusing to accept that changes are occurring even if they’re for the better. (“When Hadley Met Herod,” The Banner, January 2011)

8. I believe the church can (and should) partner with everyone to bring about “stories of hope and community resilience.” (“Faith Leaders, Neighbors Working Together in Philadelphia Make Climate Difference,” The Banner, May 2023)

9. I believe the church can (and should) apologize. “Grand Rapids Church Celebrates Reconciliation With Chaplain to LGBTQ+ People,” The Banner July 2022)

10. I believe. Help Thou my unbelief.²

1. I am available for hire.

2. 10 statements for the CRC Synod, who decided that as reporters, we can no longer show perspectives that hold “diverse” positions, nor can we give voice to others who might have unacceptable views. The editor-in-chief resigned in protest. I probably should, too. I’m writing this first, though.