getting in the way

So in the midst of persons attempting to neatly tie up all the loose end explanations of last week’s elections (and find creative ways to either absolve self, gloat, or legitimize the dismissing of reality), I found a story that resonated a little closer to my heart (… thank you, beat reporters, those of you who send newsworthy items my respectful, editorial way). As told by a CNN affiliate this week in Fort Lauderdale…

It did not take long for officials to make good on the promise to criminally charge those who violate a new ordinance that effectively outlaws groups from feeding the homeless in public. On Sunday, the city charged three people, including two ministers and a 90-year-old homeless advocate. They could face up to 60 days in jail for the violation.

“I fully believe that I am my brother’s keeper. Love they neighbor as thy self,” Arnold Abbott said. Abbott, 90, prepares hundreds of meals each week for the homeless in the kitchen of the Sanctuary Church.

“We serve two entrees at every feeding,” he said.

He faces possible jail time and a $500 fine for feeding the homeless after he was charged with violating the ordinance.

“One of police officers came over and said, ‘Drop that plate right now,’ as if I was carrying a weapon,” Abbott said.

Authorities also charged a minister from Coral Springs and Sanctuary Church’s pastor, Wayne Black.

“We believe very strongly that Jesus taught us that we are to feed his sheep,” Black said.

Mayor Jack Seiler had warned arrests were coming, but it was not the first time Abbott has fought city hall. In 1999, Abbott sued the city for banning him from feeding homeless on beach — a lawsuit he won.

Abbott said he plans to be fire up the stoves again Wednesday, when he has another food sharing plan for the beach. He said he does not want to be arrested, but he is prepared for the possibility.

“I’m going to have to go to court again to sue the city of Fort Lauderdale, the beautiful city,” he said. “These are the poorest of the poor. They have nothing. Don’t have a roof over their head, and who could turn them away?”

So let the Intramuralist acknowledge a few, brief perspectives. First, there’s most likely a valid reason the Lauderdale law was created. They are obviously attempting to limit the number of homeless persons on the street. No one wants the homeless to be homeless.

Also, in the Intramuralist’s opinion, no less — and potentially consistent with the message Tuesday’s voters sent Washington — I believe sometimes government goes too far. Recognizing a solid message or motive, government often attempts to control us via law. They justify too many rules and regulations to control our behavior. More often than not, as long as our behavior is not detrimental to the health of another, government should stay out of the way. Let the divine spirit be the convictor of our hearts — not the federal government.

Here’s a 90-year-old man who feels called to feed the hungry. Isn’t there a better way to handle all angles of this issue than the government getting in the way?

Respectfully…

AR