It has often been said that everyone it entitled to their opinion.
Certainly, everyone seems to have one and there are numerous platforms for broadcasting opinions, perspectives, prophetic utterances, criticisms, and judgments. Anyone who wants to say anything can do so and be heard.
Everyone is entitled by the laws of nature and society to do so in a free country.
Perhaps they are, but, from my perspective, morally, ethically, and pragmatically. I am not always entitled to an opinion – at least not a public one.
I sometimes refrain from forming one that I can articulate.
I sometimes restrain myself from expressing one that is in process.
Sometimes, I just wait.
Some examples of when I refrain:
- When I do not have all the information, perspective, or tools for empathy with all parties – or enough to form such an opinion.
- When I do not have the wisdom or discretion for such an opinion.
- When I am not a party to the matter in such a way that my opinion is helpful.
- When having a public opinion is more hurtful than helpful.
That is my opinion and the circle of that opinion is drawn tightly around myself. My opinion about opinions is not binding on your opinion(s) or behavior.
And like all my opinions, public or private, it is subject to adjustment, change, or complete reversal.
In the meantime, there is more at stake than me exercising my privilege or right to have my say about everything under the sun.
Sometimes the answer is blowin' in the wind.
And sometimes, we need time to look at things from all sides.
And sometimes, after doing so, we still don't know.
It's OK to say, "I don't know for sure. Ask me again later.
Pastor Tom's Community 
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