I don't know if I would say that this is the best book I have ever read, but it was certainly a real good one, I finished it about 5 days before I went to see the movie. I thought the book was better than the movie, even though the movie was very good.This all took place during my high school years and it is so amazing to me that at that time, I was hardly aware of what was going on. In my state of Utah, and the little farming community where I lived, there was none of this going on so, I really was not tuned in to these struggles. I was aware of the civil rights goings on though, but the hippy movement was the thing I was aware of most. It was a time of wearing a "flower in your hair" and seeing a few people in my class blow out their brains on drugs. I personally think that in the 60's, Satan really let his forces loose on the world. Ever since then the world has gotten more and more evil.
Anyway, back to the book...I have asked myself as I read it...if I lived in the south at this time, would I have been a Skeeter or a Hilly? An Aibileen or a Minny? If I had lived there during this time of upheaval, would I have been a raciest or just felt indifferent to it all, or would I have fought against prejudice? Who were you... who would you have been? How do we treat others even now who are considered "less"..do we pick a race to tell jokes about, do we laugh at these kinds of things?
There have always been "groups" of catty girls and they rule from kindergarten on. Hilly's who are full of a "fantasy of self importance" and sometimes, yes, even a Godless women! I have never liked having to "answer" so someone like that, so I have never really been much of a follower.
I was raised to love everyone no matter their color or religion. We had an Indian family that lived on our farm during the summer time. They were there to work for the summer. My dad paid them well and their children were my dearest friends. They were in our home for dinner almost everyday and went to church with us in Sunday. I remember them with much love.
Do we raise ourselves "above" others? Thinking that we are better than they are? I think we need to remember that...all that we have comes from God, even our every breathe! And we need to remember that the worth of every soul is great in the eyes of God. He does not value one of His children over another. Are we all inclusive or very exclusive, do we really think that we are better than others?
There is a lot of talk as to who is really a Christian or not...I say you can tell by what they do in their lives. Jesus said, that by their fruits ye shall know them. Are we examples of His teachings? True Christianity is following the teaching and doing what Jesus did and taught. Loving and serving all, mourning with those who mourn and lifting up the hands that hang down and always loving, no matter what, leaving the judging up to Him.
How do we leave others feeling...what message do we give to all? I loved Aibileen's message of love....You is smart...You is kind...You is important. No matter who you are, love is the key, isn't that what Jesus taught? We are all brothers and sisters because we are children of God! It just breaks my heart to see this group or that group set themselves above others. What examples are we setting for our children? What will they grow up with in their hearts and minds? Are we setting up another generation to fail or to be true followers of Jesus Christ?
I am glad this book came along, maybe it will make people think a bit. We must all be courageous and always stick up for what is right...we will be judged by God for what we do here and who we lead astray. This book is a great reminder of how things like this must never be again..never again! God told us to love our neighbors as ourselves, that means ALL people. He also said, If ye have not charity, ye are nothing. That is pretty strong and totally true. He also told us that we must pray to be filled with His love. I think that is so important...pray and ask God and Jesus to fill your heart with their love so that you can love others as they do.
Charity is the "PURE" love of Christ...there is nothing greater and if we do not have this in our hearts we are nothing. I hope we would all be a Skeeter and not a Hilly...how are YOU doing?
****
*And as a side note...I am beginning to wonder...Is Mormonism the prejudice of our age?
With two members of "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- Day Saints"- Mormons, running for President, there seems to be a lot of talk about who is and who is not a true Christian. Some
of the candidates seem afraid to take a stand on this, it might cost them some votes.
In a recent Gallup pole survey they said that 23% would not vote for a Mormon
(even if he was a great business man and a man of great integrity and virtue.)
Nearly everyone now recognizes that anti-black prejudices are
socially unacceptable...but that is not true of anti-Mormon sentiments.
The prejudices we need to work on aren't the ones you recognize in your grandparents' generation, they are the ones you don't recognize in your own generation, and in yourself
or what "someone" says that must surely be true!
Remember, by their fruits (actions) ye shall know them, and just so you know...I believe in Jesus Christ with all my heart and soul. He is full of grace, mercy, truth, glory, might, majesty, power, dominion, He is the King of the earth and also the King of heaven. He is everything to me.
He is my very personal Savior and he is the Savior of the whole world. He is the literal son of
God, my brother, my Savior, my Redeemer, the Lord and master of this world. It is by him and
through him that I may return to him and my Father in Heaven. I know that he lived and died for me and because of him, I will be resurrected to be with them again. I KNOW he is REAL and
I follow him with all my heart as I testify of him at all times, in all places...even on Face Book
and Blog posts, and one day, as we stand in Heaven together, you will know that I knew and
testified of the truth.
You can go to my side bar for more information on just what I believe as a member of
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- Day Saints....the Mormons.
What do you think? I would really like to know.
88 comments:
Hi Julie. When I was a little girl and moved from NY to California, we took a trip to Disneyland (it was 1968) and I bought a black baby doll because I wanted everyone to know that I wasn't prejudice. (And OH how I loved that doll. I still have her!) That was important to me. I worked with all kinds of races in Los Angeles as well and have always had such an intolerance for racism ... that movie broke my heart. I just don't even understand people who feel "above" someone else - for any reason! I loved your thoughts here. We are all children of God and must try our best to love, or at least to show tolerance and consideration to others. THAT is how I try to live my life!
Hi Julie, I haven't read the book but did see the movie and it was very good, made me laugh and made me cry. I don't think I would have had "help" -I have never been wealthy so I don't even imagine a wealthy life for me. I was in elementary school so no drug issues in school at that young age. I agree, since that time, things have gotten worse. xo
I agree with you. Maybe the new prejudice is against LDS people.
I am not prejudice and have never been. I love how you wrote this. XOXO
I have read on other blogs about this going on against the mormon candidates,, at first i couldn't beleive it was true,, how could this be,, living so far in the Northern canada we only read about racial issues with African Americans but there was lots of predjudice against the aboriginal people in Canada.I never even saw a person of color until I was 10.A familr moved into our area to farm, coming from the states.I became besties with their youngest.They called us salt and peppa. You made some very good points on your post today,, thankyou for sharing, I've not read the book, I'm waiting for the audio version
I haven't read the book yet, but I loved the movie! I enjoyed reading all your thoughts!
Happy Monday!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. It's always good for us to take stock of our actions. Hopefully, we are trying to be better people everyday and better servants to our Heavenly Father.
For me, seeing the movie, it made me think about how not having the 'right' name, or living in the 'right' house, etc.. etc.. are just a few of the modern day prejudices that we deal with.
I too hope that we can all think about our fellow brothers and sisters with love, and consideration. You know the old saying..."Walk a mile in my shoes".
I havent read the book or saw the movie Julie this is a first for me.I dont know what to say everything anymore including religion is falling away.I dont know how people in this life think they can carry on without faith.I believe like this.Iam Christian of the Greek orthodox faith.All "Christians" believe one thing one important thing Jesus Christ is God.Thats it thats enough.We all have our little variations but when it comes down to it.We all are christians who believe in Christ.
Have a lovely day Julie!
Julie you did a beautiful job writing this post! I loved the movie but it's sad that there is so much prejudice then and now.
I have not read the book, had never heard of it before. But I really do love the hand holding that note with these LOVELY caring words!
Happy hugs xoxoxox
What a wonderful post! I loved the book and movie!
Hi Julie!
What a thought provoking post. I have not read the book - I've heard discussions on it, and I am looking forward to reading it or seeing the movie. As far as racial prejudice is concerned; as a girl growing up, we did have a couple of African American families who lived in our small Idaho town. They all went to my school, and I was friends with them, and I loved them. I've just never been a prejudice person . . . against any race, I've just never understood it. We have been asked by our Father in Heaven to love all mankind, as He does. I don't know how I would have been 100 years ago. Hopefully, I would have been as I am today... :0)
I am always puzzled when people question whether I am a christian - after all, our church bears His name - The Church of Jesus Christ, of Latter-Day Saints. I was disappointed with the news this morning - the newscaster was truly bashing on Romney for attending conference, I believe they called it his, "Mormon thing", very offensive.
Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful testimony of Christ. We all need to show more tolerance towards others - whether it's race or religion.
Hugs,
Barb
Very well written post! Thank you. I read the book and enjoyed it. I have yet to see themovie. My Gma and her sisters had Help and they were much loved and part of the family and very well treated. I was a little girl but I remember them.
Julie I think this:
"The prejudices we need to work on aren't the ones you recognize in your grandparents' generation, they are the ones you don't recognize in your own generation, and in yourself"
Is one of the wisest things I have ever read. It is so true. You nailed it.
LDS have always been persecuted and we always will - Satan will make sure of that but we definately need to rise above it, be bold, be clear and direct about our beliefs.
I think when we do that then the spirit can work miracles.
Great post Julie. I've read the book and seen the movie (twice). I liked both. Both the movie and the book made me stop and think. It made me mad at some points, cry at others, and smile a lot. So many good things can be learned from the past.
Awwww darlin', ya just made my day!
I haven't read the book or seen the movie but it's on our list to see.
Great post sweetie! I thank God every day that He is a 'real' lovin' Father and I pray that I can shine His love in my earthly walk.
God bless and enjoy your week.
I always appreciate your comments! :o)
Very interesting post Julie!
I haven't seen the movie but I hope to soon. I don't believe that prejudice against blacks has truly gone away. It has improved some, but when you think of all the death threats against President Obama, (the increase has been dramatic) the birthing issue etc., it becomes clear that many cannot accept a black President. Kennedy is the first president I remember and I remember how my Mom talked about the prejudice against Catholics (which I am) and how amazing that a Catholic could became president.
I guess the prejudice issue just may never completely go away.
Take Care my friend and thanks for a thought provoking post!
Hugs,
Cindy
Hi Julie,
I haven't read "The Help", yet, but I will once I find it in our public library.
I was raised in a minister's family on an Indian Reserve, so I had very different thoughts than many at that time. My folks taught us that we were all equal in God's eyes and how we treated those poorer and "different" from us said a lot about who we were.
Personally, I think Christians of all denominations are and will be more and more the prejudice of our age. Canada is not a Christian country and people are very free to discuss what they think of us on public broadcasts, but they would not talk like that about blacks or other races. I'm not very aware of what is happening in US politics right now, so I was not aware that two Mormons were running for office. I am surprised at the pole that says 22% would not vote for a Mormon, that is just ridiculous. I have had many Mormon friends and I loved them every one, because they were much like me. They loved God, family and community, and they were known to be fair and honest sounds like a good foundation for someone running to be President.
Have a great day,
Love and hugs, Cindy
I haven't read the book or seen the movie but I admit that the book is almost always the better version.
I am looking forward to reading the book. My 19 year old told me it is a must read over Thanksgiving Break!
My husband and I went to see the movie. Loved it. Afterwards we talked about how all this went on in the South and being from the
North we really had no idea. We didn't watch the news much and knew some of the events but couldn't imagine treating other people this way. I feel we are all created equal.
I am not a Mormon but have neighbors and friends that are. I do see where they have been treated badly. I know that
Nie Nie had to turn off her comments because of some of the comments. Such mean things being said. I wonder if the shows like Sister Wives and Big Brother have contributed to the prejudice. I don't watch them but have seen them on talk shows. How do you feel about these shows?
I admire the family closeness that you share and your beliefs. I have met through blogging some wonderful Mormon people, you included.
lol Julie and for me as well as I grow old ha!We are probably close in age.
Way to be 100% open and real Julie. A true Skeeter if ever I knew one!
Blessings, Debbie
I haven't read the book or seen the movie, but it sounds like a really good one! You ask some great questions...we all need to show God's love..no one is above another!
I really want to read that book. I took lots of classes on the Civil Rights movement in college and it totally opened my eyes...I've wondered the same thing of what I would have been like and how I would have acted if I'd lived in those times...
great post!
You have covered a lot in this post! ;)
I have read the book, haven't seen the movie yet. I absolutely LOVED the book. I hope I would be a Skeeter!! I try to be a Skeeter, as even now, though not the 60's, it's still an issue, especially in the South. I live in GA.
About the Mormon issue...
Well...I am NOT in the group who says they wouldn't vote for a Mormon. I am not a Mormon, but I do know a lot about what the LDS church believes. I think for me personally, the trouble I have is that other "Christian" churches..ex. Methodist,Baptist, Church of God, etc...do not say that other Christian Churches aren't the "true church". That's the trouble I have with Mormonism. They teach and tell others that the Mormon Church is the only TRUE church. What does this mean? That if we believe in Jesus and have received Him as our Savior that we are going to the wrong church unless we also believe the Book of Mormon or attend a Mormon church? I'm only asking your opinion. I know the opinions of others , as I have heard Bishops, missionaries, memebers say that it is the ONLY true church. I beleive that WE are the true church...US that know and believe in the ONLY Savior Jesus Christ, WE are the BODY of Christ.
I hope I have answered this in a way that will let you know the feelings of a Christian who isn't a Mormon. By the way, my husband was raised Mormon.
I just recently saw the movie with daughter and 2 g-girls. It was a really great movie. The book is always better than the movie and, if you read it first, a lot of people are disappointed in the movie because it can't go into as many details as the book.
OK, I was born in Dallas and can well remember the blacks riding in the back of the streetcars..,..the water fountains, rest rooms...one for whites, one for blacks. i can remember that a black would never look at you if you walked past him on the street...such a sad sad time in our history. We didn;t have the money to have HELP but my mama wouldn't have done it anyway.
Hi Julie - I appreciate your post today. All I wanna add is that when I start feelin' uppity or I'm better than somebody else, I have to back up and think -
"God loves the criminal and the most vile person on this earth that ever lived as much as He loves me". How He can love us sinners and forgive and redeem us is totally beyond me. We just have to accept His free gift of salvation!
He loves Jeffrey Dahmer or whoever you can name as much as He loves me. We're all sinners, no matter our race, our upbringing, our religious preference - and we can only be saved by His grace and mercy through faith that Jesus Christ is the Son of the Living God, and that He died, was buried and was raised to new life to reign with God forever. I'm planning on being there! Who's with me??????????????
Puts things right back in perspective for me. I'm not talking about racial or religious prejudice - I'm talking about just realizing that God loves us all equally - no matter what. And THAT's that! It's up to each one of us to love Him back and obey His will. And I'm sure glad that I don't have to be the judge - I'll leave that up to God.
Thanks for your thought-provoking post, Julie. Sometimes it's good to "stir the pot"!
Hi Julie....a very well written post and very timely as I just heard on the news this afternoon about Mitt Romney not being a "Christian" and not acceptable to be President....What year is this?...are these people kidding...ridiculous...
As for treating all people the same....we just finished a lot of work on our new property and had a variety of laborers working every day...We treated them all with respect for the hard work they were doing no matter what color they were or what language they spoke....Everyday I would bring out drinks and a snack for the Mexican stone masons and it was so rewarding to me to see their faces just light up when I walked out the door carrying my tray of goodies for them....they didn't speak much English but I knew how much they appreciated this small gesture....
Just because they were working for us we never felt that we were better then them....more people need to do that.....
Julie,
I have read the book but have not seen the movie. I really enjoyed the book and I thought the same thing. Even though it was in my era, I didn't live in the South. However, my Dad did and it was hard to be friends with the black kids in my school because my Dad was very prejudice. I have taught my children to love all people, regardless of their race. Some must have taken it to heart because I have a daughter married to a Tongan and a daughter married to a Nicaraguan. Such is life.
I have a book recommendation for you. "The Evolution of Thomas Hall" is a fabulous book! It talks about Christianity vs Darwinism. Very well written.
It was a good book and I really liked the movie as well.
I remember some of those horrible things happening in the South, but was too young to understand much.
I loved your sharing your thoughts.
There has certainly been a lot on the church in the news. Certainly out front now aren't we?
Very well said Julie. People of faith are often portrayed in the media as intolerant bigots. Here in California, Mormans took a real beating in the media when the marriage bill passed a year or two ago. I was shocked at the hate spewed against the LDS church.
This was a wonderful movie, and I'd like to read the book. It really does make you think. There is so much intolerance in the world for anything or anyone "different" than ourselves.
Thanks for sharing your heart.
Blessings,
Marcia
I have not read the book but I did go see it in the movies and loved it to pieces! A bitter~sweet kind of story. I lived in a town in CA where it was a "melting pot" of races. It was wonderful! With that, I do not remember anything that was happening in the South. "Mitt" is the man! No matter what religion he would be, I would vote for him because of his standards! We need a good, honest, God loving family man to lead this country! xox :)
Julie, I so enjoyed this post. I think I have always lived in some sort of naivity as far as prejudices go. It is just so hard for me to imagine that people could hate or look down on someone they don't even really know. I do realize at this stage of my life that there are a lot of hateful folks. I still don't get it (well, okay... I do have issues of my own with entitlement and ungrateful or disrespectful attitudes... but that is specific to people who I directly see exhibit those... I do wish I were more loving and tolerant about that... but, so far, no luck).
One eye opener for me has been about prejudices against Jewish people. My husband is Jewish, a Christian, but his heritage and family are Jews. We have been married for almost eleven years now and I had never noticed the comments and slurs and jokes about Jews until I we married... you always notice things near to your heart. Anyway, it has been an eye-opener (once again an example of my ignorance/naivity).
I am not sure why there is this prejudice against your religion. In my opinion, many 'religions' see themselves as 'better than' others or the 'only way'. I see that as prejudice and hubris. Christ died so that we could be saved. Grace. Pure and simple. Period. By no works. By no particular 'religion'. By His Grace. We are all very, very fortunate in that. That is IMHO.
You are an angel! blessings ~ Tanna
Julie - I just wanted to add, too, that no matter who is running for President, the media and the people are going to bash him/her with whatever MUD they can throw. If we had a candidate that had purple hair or a nose ring or two left feet - that person is going to get absolutely flayed. Our media today is heartless and critical - and they pass it along to the masses. I think that those of us who believe in God can rest assured and trust that HE will raise up and depose our leaders. It's all in His hands...
Amen sister.
Another great post!! Looks like you're getting a lot of feedback!!
I read the book last year and loved it, haven't seen the movie, but will!! This book made me really look at myself...hard!! What I saw wasn't so pretty!! :-(
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and testimony!! :-)
Thank you for bringing all of this up. We have to find a place to have conversation outside of our own circle. I grew up in the south, and I know what real prejudice is like. I am thrilled that God taught me at about 8 that all people are the same. I never forgot it.
I am Mormon but I don't feel prejudice from other people. I haven't been denied a table in a restaurant, or a mortgage...I have had people say stupid things to me, but that would happen no matter what.
I walk the walk....I love my church and I found it. I wasn't born into it. My quest was simple, If there is one Savior then He must have one church. I never understood why my mother's family couldn't dance (they were Baptist) but my father's family could (they were Methodist). So I wandered around until I found what works for me. I feel strongly that people get to find their answers too. But I have not enjoyed the good pastor from Dallas calling my church a cult. He needs to stop doing that. And my whole life revolves around Jesus Christ. It is demeaning to have him say we don't believe in the Savior...stop doing that.
There my job is finished.
My son is playing football for a high school team in Wyoming. There are a few 'mormom' communities that we play against. I have been ashamed to see that those teams are the most unsportmanlike in their conduct. We live in a 'mormon' community but our coach is Catholic and he is teaching our boys to become good men and will not tolerate unsportsmanlike behavior. I think we all need to 'clean it up' and be more Christlike always, even at sporting events.
I am extremely grateful that my mother was kind to everyone and it didn't matter who they were. I've never seen "color" or felt that I or 'we' were better than anyone else. I never lived with my Dad, however, he was very racist. When I visited, I never understood why he made the comments he did and it always made me feel very uncomfortable. I was raised too that you did not voice your opinions or anger so I couldn't have a discussion with him.
God loves every person, regardless of color or creed, and I believe that is what He wants us to do. Every person is first of all a human being...it does not matter their ethnicity. I also believe every person is entitled to their own belief system.
I cannot stand politics and the state of our country now. It's so very sad to see the actions and the vile words that are scattered about like they don't matter.
xo
Pat
The hypocrisy of so many of our elected officials and that of the politicians angling for the Presidency is shameful. Taking aim at another's religion (regardless of what a person may believe in) is shameful too, and ironically, not very Christian!
On another topic, I too loved reading The Help. Haven't seen the movie yet.
~Cindy
I loved the book and the movie. It did open my eyes to life in Mississippi in those years. Being from the north, I wasn't all that familiar with life outside my neck of the woods.
I have not read the book 'The Help' or seen the movie, but I plan to do both. I think prejudices, racial and otherwise, are present to one degree or another in just about every society. I grew up a Christian Scientist ...that being the case, I am all too familiar with prejudice based on religion. I found Christ officially as an adult when I lived in Colorado ...but I have 'known Him' in my heart all my life. It is not my place or anyone's place to judge another person's relationship with God. Only God knows our hearts. I have many dear friends who are Mormon and was actually married in a tiny little Mormon church in Lybrook, NM. If I must be labeled, I guess I consider myself a Baptist and especially for that reason, I am deeply offended by that pastor in Dallas who said those awful things about the Mormon faith.
Loved this post Julie and I too loved the book.
That is wild, I sat yesterday looking at this book in Walmart and thought about buying it but didn't. I'm still not sure if I want to read it or not but from what you describe, maybe. I was born in 65 and grew up in the 70's and early 80's. My husband's family and some of my friends families had help. My family did NOT for the most part. Although, my mother did have help when I was a baby. I was the youngest of four and have memories of being in a playpen by a window in our dining room with those big old fashioned metal slat blinds. My mother has told me that is where the lady who helped us would put me when she did the ironing. By the time I got older we certainly did not have any help and there were only a few other families I knew that did have help. They were always treated very nicely that I knew of. I was often jealous of why others had help when my family didn't, especially since my parents divorced when I was in elementary school and we really could have used some extra help around the house. It wasn't until later that I realized it was more of a social status thing in the south to have help. I also remember as a teen when my grandmother came to live with us because she had Alzheimer's we hired someone who was black to watch after her while my mother worked and we were at school. Occasionally (quite a bit really) she would vaccume (my job) and I got used to it until my mother found out and got very upset and set me straight about she was not "the help" but was a woman in the health care field not to be expected to clean up after us. It was an eye opener for me and ever since, I have always treated those I have met who helped out in others homes with respect for whatever job they were doing not matter what is was. I have not read this book because I felt like I did not want to glorify what was a harsh reality of the times. I am quite surprised to hear that many in our country had no idea this was a normal part of life in the south.
I personally am all for separation of church and state because I see the law as separate from religious beliefs, as in God has told us to give Caesar his due. I personally try to look more at the character of a man and his plan for our country which seems harder and harder though to really know in this day and age of any of the candidates. I really enjoyed hearing your post and your review!
Wonderful post, Julie! Loved the movie--just about to start the book--not surprised you liked the book better...that's usually the way it goes, isn't it?!
And amen to all you said, dear friend...I know you know I agree one million percent...
Julie
I just finished reading The Help yesterday and I agree with you that it is a very good book. I was born in 1965 in Utah, so I don't really remember any of this stuff. It's unfortunate that prejudice exists in the world. I'd like to think that we can all work to make things better.
Sandy
This sounds like an amazing book, Julie... I'll have to check it out!
I loved your words.. I'm so thankful "religion" doesn't have to get in the way of "belief"!
This might sound a bit harsh but because I work in the caretaking..yes, even housecleaning field I have a very different take on the The Help. Honestly, it is not much different today and I think people are little naive in thinking so. I am white and I work for white rich families..some you would know by names. They just live in a totally different world from us...you have to fight for every thing you earn. And I swear if they could we would still be using separate bathrooms! hmmmm...maybe I should do a post about this..lol..As far as a Mormon or whoever running for president I think it is the media that keeps it all going. Maybe it was the way I raised...without prejudice for religion or race...but I think for most people religion matters little when voting....though Mr. Romney did make a smart move yesterday hooking up with Mr. Christy I must say. One last thing then I will let you have your blog back...lol....if more religious people would realize that ACTIONS speak louder than words the world would be a better place.....take care...
I haven't had time to read blogs much lately...I've been going non-stop..but it's been a good busy!
I really enjoyed this post. I haven't read the book or watched the movie yet, but I plan on it..hopefully soon.
I have never understood folks that are prejudice. We didn't raise our children that way and they aren't either. Different color, different religions..it's not up to us to judge. Life would be so much happier if we can all consider each other "equal"...just as God sees us!
Thank you for stopping by my blog! And yes..I am a little bit tall. And I love high heels..but I don't wear them or I'd be 6'3"! I want people to look up to me..but that's a bit much! LOL
Hi Julie! You gave a great description of this movie. My daughter, Rachael, really liked it. I haven't had a chance to get out much because of the kitchen work. It's always wonderful when a book or movie touches us in such a profound way.
Those TV News polls make me crazy! I always wonder how they word and phrase their questions. There is so much influence out there! They can really drive public opinion from political candidates to making fun of Christians to even the color of our appliances!
Take cate dear heart and know that you are loved!
Hi Julie,
For some reason I read this post shortly after you posted and it wouldn't let me leave a comment. Hopefully this time my comment will publish.
Thanks for sharing your feelings about The Help and persecution. We understand that our Heavenly Father has provided a great plan of happiness for us. We are all here because we chose to follow Jesus Christ and we can do it again here. I'm so thankful for a gospel that teaches kindness to all through Jesus Christ's example. There is no room for hatred or evil.
Hello Julie, I enjoyed reading the book also. I grew up in the protection of the Wasatch Mountains in Utah County. I knew from the news stories there were these types of problems. I always wondered how anyone could be mean or cruel to another person, regardless of color or race. I am so grateful for the teachings of the Savior and His Prophets, that we are all Children of God and He loves us all. Thank you for your wonderful words of wisdom. And thank you for visiting my blog, I always love hearing from you. Have a wonderful Autumn Day. Hugs, Karie
This was a beautifully written post.
I am not a person who ever thought of myself better than others at all.
I agree that this USA has really gotten bad in these times. I will have to find that book and read it.
Thanks for the eye opener post.
Prayers for us all.
Hugs
We need movies like this to open our eyes and our hearts to the injustice that many still face. How could people who called themselves moral and Christian live like that? A sad, sad time in the history of our country.
Thanks for the review...I haven't read the book or seen the movie!
Julie- What an awesome and powerful message you have sent here. You are brave enough to stand up and say what you think and that is one of the things I love about you.
We lived in a small farm area in PA and there was never a hint of the racial unrest that was going on South of us. In 10th grade an African-American family moved to our area and there was a boy in my class. I remember feeling kind of sorry for him. He had moved to a big city and I think he always felt like an outsider even though everyone treated him just like they treated everyone else. BUT...he never had a date during the remaining years until we graduated.
God bless you, Julie- xo Diana
I haven't read the book and I haven't seen the movie! I love how you put your beliefs right out there and let everyone who comes to your blog know exactly what you believe!
I am a Christian and have no problem voting for a Mormon. I believe our values are similar and I know of the Mormons we are friends with to be family oriented and community minded. These are some of my highest priorities in a candidate. I want to know the man is honest as well. Won't stop me from voting for either one. They were saying the same thing about Kennedy and his Catholic religion when he ran.
Beautiful post, Julie. I loved the book for many of the same reasons you did. Thanks for sharing your beautiful testimony of our Savior.
Julie,
I really enjoyed this post and I agree with you on the prejudice against the LDS people. I am not LDS but I believe we should vote for the candidate that we feel will be the best president not neceassarily what church they are.I do beleive that the nation could use a lot more of the values of family that the LDS church and religion promotes. I hope you have a wonderful weekend.
Powerful post. Very well written and very insightful.
As a Mexican American, my mother experienced the same prejudices we saw/read in The Help. Her world meant separate bathrooms, riding on the back of buses, and being looked down upon because of the color of her skin. My dad, white, married her in the 1040's and at that time they had what was considered a mixed marriage. His relatives would not even speak to her because of, once again, the color of her skin. Mom was very, very insecure and I remember at times not being allowed to play in the sun because it would make my skin dark. Amazing, huh?
Anyway, so glad that for MOST of us, prejudice is no longer shoved in our faces. It does, however, come out in very unexpected ways. I had an estimate done recently for new kitchen counters. You know what lost the company the job? The owner made a derogatory comment about minorities - to me. You should have seen the look on his face when I curtly told him that I am Hispanic.
Yes, honestly, I do think that Mormons do experience prejudice. I have always had Mormon friends that worked out with me, and I've attended exercise classes at a Mormon church. I was welcomed with open arms. Love is love, love of our friends, neighbors, co-workers, or Jesus. Sadly, I have heard people make Mormon comments that were rude. I am very sensitive to embracing who we are, just as we are because that is what God has called us to do. Love one another just like my Dad loved my mom.
I haven't read the book yet but have heard good reviews.
I look for character and values when voting. I think the media is making a bigger issue out of this than it is just to slam the conservative voters. I personally can't agree with Mormonism because the Bible is the only book for me concerning salvation, however I don't blog to debate religion. I'm sure there are blogs out there for that but it's not my purpose. I love everyone for who they are. The old saying, "what would Jesus do?" is how I'd like to live.
Be blessed my friend! And enjoy your weekend!
I haven't read this yet, but it's in my stack next to my bed of "to be read" books.
Even though I am not LDS, a lot of people assume I am just because I live in UT. It is amazing that we never seem to learn from our mistakes and that prejudice of any kind is still tolerated. I believe the vast majority of people don't care too much what color you are or what religion you are, but the few who do are loud unfortunately.
I'll have to move this book to the top of the stack, it looks like a good one!
xxoo,
RMW
What a beautiful post! I am currently reading The Help. I agree that its a good story but not the best I've read. I'll probably wait to see the movie when it comes out on DVD.. I have a hard time paying to go see very many..
Your thoughts and comments about prejudices is wonderful and inspiring.
This book is next on my Nook list. Great thought provoking post. :) Hope you can come on over for a visit soon.
going through all these comments....I have to say I'd agree with pretty much all of them
I loved the book (but, as you said NOT my Favorite)...and will have to wait for the movie to come out in DVD before I'll get to see it.
We don't go to the movies where I live, as it is an hours drive just to get to one.
anway, one thing for sure, it seems not matter how HARD people think they are trying, prejudice is alive and well in the world.
It finds a way to surface it's ugly head.......
Thank you for your beautiful testimony of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and of having charity, the pure love of Christ in our lives, no matter what our religion.
Julie, the thing I have loved most about blogland is finding all kinds of wonderful women of all faiths that believe in marriage and in family and Christian values. There are more wonderful Christians out there than the media would make us believe. And Christians teach and LIVE what Christ taught. I grew up in the north and we only had two African Americans who moved into our school. I was so proud of my rural school in the 70's, we rallied to show that we weren't prejudiced and voted the young man in as class president. We all have a long way to go, but I add my testimony to yours that I know that the Savior lives, that he loves each and every one of us and that he will ultimately save each one of us through his atoning sacrifice. I am proud to be a Christian.
Oh, Beaulah wanted you to know the old crones origens. The green one with purple hair Jacqueline made from a class she took at Roberts, the one with crossed legs came from Home Goods last year (and is at Tai Pan this year for over twice as much!) and the other two came from Tai Pan last year.
Hi Julie,
I came back to tell you that I have seen the movie, The Help, and I am very impressed with it. The surprise element in it was a bit strange, but it's the sort of thing that people normally only dream of doing to someone that they would love to get back at. I'm sure a lot of people enjoy that aspect of it.
I hope you are enjoying a beautiful day.
Hugs, Cindy
Hello sweet Julie,
I am half way through the book and have found it an eye opening experience. I have been sheltered for sure, and it saddens my heart to see my sisters treated in such degrading, second rate way. WE are ALL his children, and life is far to short to be dwelling on the color of ones skin.
Sending you a basket of HUGS...I have missed you sweet friend...Rosi
I have not read the book OR seen the movie but PLAN to do so...so many discussions about it.
A GOOD post...and you are my true sister in Christ! love that. a sister with my name! :-) So glad to be settled down in Iowa, well, we have landed, anyway. settling day by day...Good to be back. God's timing and plans are perfect. This year gives testimony that HE is working in ALL of His childrens' lives for the perfect moments to unveil and reveal His answers and surprises for them.
Hugs to you today Julie! :-)
You got a lot of people thinking.
Its good to share our feelings and allow others their opinions too.
We all have more similarities than we do differences.
It's obvious that your belief system blesses your life, and that you are a happy person.
I would hope that my example in whatever I do would be obvious of my love for my Savior Jesus Christ.
Being an LDS person has answered lifes many questions for me and made it easier for me to live my best life.
wonderful post Julie♥
great post! i am amazed that others folks get to decide if i am a Christian or not. thanks for setting people straight!
Wow that was a lot! OK. I believe you are a true believer in Jesus. I don't share the beliefs of your church. I use only the Holy Bible. Jesus left a strong warning for adding anything to His words on the last page of that book. So that's where I set up camp. We don't need to argue about it.
However I do believe that many people in different religions find God not because of their religions at all but because their hearts are truly seeking. I think a lot of southern "Christians" are going to be very surprised at the judgement to find out they didn't know Jesus at all. I don't want to sound like I think that there are many ways to find God. I do not. Jesus said that "HE is the way the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except by HIm " In the book of John.
Like you say we are to be fruit inspectors. If we love Jesus and are grafted into the vine, we bear fruit. Jesus sacrifice was not cheap, and to really love Him we need to give him all that we are and let him be Lord. I sense that in you.
Next, "The Help." I haven't read the book or seen the movie.
I have mixed feelings about it.
After living most of my life in California coming out here shocked me. The shock was the horrible way blacks treat whites. I guess we have it coming but some where this junk has to die out. Blacks here are also mean to each other and very mean to their children. Not all but a lot. No one could have ever convinced me, I had to live in it. It's awful. It's the one thing that really makes me want to leave this state. If my husband dies first I"ll be out of here in the first week.
Or so I say, what I practice is thanking God for bringing me here. I ask him to help with the poison.
WE need to pray for the deep powers and principalities of hatred that have been here. When the 60's happened there was a lot of crimes done to black people. The people who live now did not have the same experience so when is it going to end?
The other day my car broke down and you know who stopped and helped me? A black woman. She works for Walmart I called the corporate office and asked them to honor her and complimented her as an outstanding person who represented their company off duty. She saved my bacon, I don't even carry a cell phone. She was so wonderful to help me I couldn't thank her enough. A lot of men drove right by. There I was trying to push a Grand Marquis out of the way by myself.
You also make a very good point about the prejudice against Mormons. I really like Glen Beck. I'm sorry his show went off the air. He has a lot of courage and speaks a lot of truth. If Mitt Romney becomes the Republican candidate I will vote for him. IF people don't vote for him because of his beliefs and let Obama back in for 4 more years then we deserve what we get. This country is on a ship wreck course and the only real help is if we all repent on our faces of the evils we have tolerated in our land. The abortions and homosexuality and having it on TV and in schools. We have lost our way. I would support a good moral man and M.R. has a good head on his shoulders. It seems to me that Mormons have courage that "Christians" should take note of! We better all stand up soon.
I'm looking for Jesus to come again.
Julie.. I just visit Bradenton and had a Sister weekend,, we went to the Women of Faith conference which we do every year and have for the last 6 yrs, and then one night we went to the movies and saw this.. we promised each other that we would not see it until we could see it together.. It was so much fun.. we laughed , we cried,, we too wondered how you could treat someone that way..that was then and this is now.. so I hope we will all try to do better,,and maybe this movie can be a reminder to some people..
As always.. love your post and it was great to stop by and visit you.. have a blessed day my friend..
I have'nt read the book, but i read your post and it is always a pleasure to read you.
Hi Julie! Oh, I've just read this book myself and finished it on the plane as we were traveling. I did enjoy it very much. I too grew up in this era and lived in the deep south at this time - Alabama. Now we didn't have "help".Well, my mother would take our laundry to this black lady and I would go with her to pick it up and she always gave me a cookie! I loved her. But there were plenty of black "help" in our town. I saw the kindness of others to them and the cruelty too.
I'm not Mormon but am a Christian. I see your love of Jesus in your posts and even if we don't see eye to eye on our faiths we can still respect and learn from each other. I do so appreciate your boldness for what you believe.
You know I love you and am so glad I've found you in Blogland.
Be a sweetie,
Shelia ;)
The Help is one of the best books & movies ever, depicted clearly of the era. I so remember the uprising in the south well.
It is sad that all races treat one another the way they do, it isn't just blacks & whites. People are so naive about how the orientals, the Irish, the Italians, etc., were all treated when they came to this country. History fails to teach the facts, schools now incorporate races issues into the text books that were not even part of the era being taught ... to be politically correct.
You know, the other day I went to a neighbors yard sale. He popped the lid off a box of 'stuff' & said it was stuff from a black guy that he evicted from his rental. I replied 'you mean an American'. He shot back, 'no, a black guy.' I said, 'he is a child of God, there is no color.' He informed me he has opinion & I have mine. I told him 'we are all God's children, regardless of color'. He replied, 'I have black grandchildren & I tell them they are black.' Stunned I said 'surely you do not tell a child that, much less your own grandchild. They are children of God.' As he pointed to his skin he said clearly, 'I am white, they are black.' I walked away clearly asking loudly God to forgive him. I am still stunned that this occurred.
There is only one God. I don't care what religious title one says they are/belong to, as the title isn't what is important ... it is believing in God the Father, Jesus Christ & the Holy Ghost. I do not think religion should be an issue, just the politicians platform should be the fore topic.
You are such a sweetie, Julie. Have missed you.
Have a beautiful weekend.
TTFN ~
Hugs,
Marydon
I joined the LDS church when I was 20. I was raised in L.A. county. My parents taught me and my siblings to respect EVERY individual. I grew up noticing character, not skin color. I appreciate that aspect of my upbringing.
Julie, I really appreciate your bold and beautiful testimony of the Savior and His teachings.
Hey, Julie..just coming by to ck on ya...:)
I want to read the book then see the movie. Yep, it's a cryin' same we treat others less than ourselves...after all we are all the children of God. Brothers and sisters in the lord.
God bless ya sweetie and have an amazin' week!!! :o)
Thought I had already commented but guess I hadn't. Duh! A mind is a terrible thing to lose! :o)
Sadly there will always be prejudice in this world. I have experienced it myself a few times because I am Baptist. I have been called a holy roller and a few other unkind names because I live my faith. I know I can harbor no ill feelings against these people and need to love them and pray for them. It will never be a perfect world until Christ comes again. Hugs to you my friend! xoxox
Hi Julie,
I bought this book a few months back, but haven't read it yet, or even seen the movie. I have heard it is really good.
I hope and pray that when I stand before Christ that He will say, "well done, good and faithful servant." God created each and everyone of us...he made us in His image. We are all of value and worth to Him! Jesus came to the earth, God incarnate in the flesh; to live and work, to be the example He wants us to try to be. He suffered and felt all of the same feelings we feel of prejudice and pain, rejection and abandonment in his greatest hour of need, but remained sinless (that spotless sacrificial lamb). By dying on the cross, and then raising from the grave, He was the ultimate sacrifice for sin. He lives! We just have to accept that free gift. Accept Him as our personal Savior. Ask for forgiveness of our sins, live for Him. That includes acting Christ-Like.
The bible does say ...don't be surprised when you suffer for my namesake. As Christians we will suffer persecution. God guides our steps, He will give us strength & hope for our journey. Thanks for sharing from your heart.
Blessings for a wonderful week, dear friend! xoxo...Gloria
Dear Julie;
Thank you for the wonderful post!!! You have a talent for making us feel better and more blessed...I am, however, worried about you...you haven't posted for a while...thinking of you...
Love,
Marilee
Great post Julie. You wrote with honesty and sincerity. And it came across so humble. Sweet testimony.
Absolutely beautiful in concept and and writing, Julie. I am going to highlight this in my day book today. I had started one that never got done but this prompts me to finish it and post it so it will hopefully reach more readers. Thank you for your wonderful, honest, and very true insights! Love, Bonnie
Hi Julie,
I loved the Help...both the book and the movie. So poignant on many levels. It seems that prejudice and racism will always exist, just directed at different people. You would think we would be tired of going around the same mountain by now.
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