Quote:
Originally Posted by nittanyalum
Interestingly enough, I just heard Graham's 2 grandsons on NPR this morning, they've just released a book about Graham's ministry. You can listen to the interview here: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/s...oryId=96778336
During the interview, his grandsons describe him as a "50-year-old in a 90-year-old's body". He's apparently sharp as a tack, but his body is failing. This article gives insight into just how unwell he's been/is (and that he does very much want to meet and pray with Obama): http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5h...RFsIAD94ALAGO0
Graham is known for breaking down racial barriers and refusing to preach to segregated crowds in the south starting back in the 50s: http://www.vop.com/previous_broadcas...jan/99034.html
He's also a registered Democrat, though he's ministered Republican Presidents as well as Democrats. I have no doubt that Billy Graham is celebrating the election of the nation's first African American President with most of the rest of the country and would have been on a plane to see him if it were physically possible for him.
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I tire rather quickly of people spouting off info about Graham's history concerning civil rights. All of that is pretty much negated by the fact that, as I mentioned previously, he was willing to maintain membership in a country club that prided itself on segregation. Rather hypocritical of someone to refuse to preach to a segregated crowd, but go play tennis on a segregated court.
I just can't muster up the same warm, fuzzy feelings that so many others seem to have for him. I don't think people really see him for who he is. Just because he's a minister means nothing. There are many ministers that preach fiery sermons, leave the pulpit, and go put on a hood and a robe. And there were many ministers who were active in civil rights issues, but still didn't believe that we were equal to them...let alone that one of us should be president.
And I'm well aware that he's a Democrat. That really has nothing to do with anything.
As for him wanting to pray with Obama...he had his chance. He chose not to when Obama asked to meet with him. Obama shouldn't even bother with it at this point. I think it may be a blessing in disguise that this is happening, but I just don't like the reasoning behind it.