No matter on which side of the Shiavo situation you fall, you must be thoroughly disgusted by the Reverend Jesse Jackson pandering for press coverage. The Rainbow Coalition’s coffers must need its own feeding tube reinserted because Reverend Jesse has temporarily relocated to Florida and taken up residence in front of the cameras with Terri’s parents.
In what can only be described as a death watch, the Schindlers would likely take any comfort given to them — and rightly so. They are about to lose a child to a death they fought a fierce battle to prevent. They are Catholics with their own spiritual advisor whom has been with them through this fight for many years. Anyone who has turned on a television in the last two weeks knows this.
Cue Jesse. With the cameras and the public’s inability to detach from this drama, Jackson could simply not help himself. He wants to champion all causes that might get him some press coverage . . . and boost those donation dollars. He takes advantage of the desperation of families while they are grasping at straws. In fairness, Terri’s mother has said she appreciates Jackson’s presence and his strength. She’s a grieving mother, though, and would welcome any help and hope that presents itself.
Reverend Jesse has become a media vulture — preying upon the desperate families with high media coverage. He prays with Michaels Jackson publicly. In one of his many ineffectual attempts, he went to Iraq to help free American hostage Roy Hallums. If you are in the news and in need, call Jesse.
He prayed with the Schindlers and asked to pray over Terri Shiavo. That request was denied. And, I say “Thank God” for small favors. After 15 years — 7 years of court battles, Jackson shows up in Terri’s last hours. After his session with the Schindlers, he called a press conference. Was Jackson there for the Schindlers or for the cameras? It’s grandstanding; and, it makes me want to vomit.
“I feel so passionate about this injustice being done, how unnecessary it is to deny her a feeding tube, water, not even ice to be used for her parched lips,” said Jackson — CBS/AP
OK. Well, where was all this passion for the past 7 years — or even the past two weeks? Where was all this righteous indignation when predominantly-Republican lawmakers and the Bushes tried every way they knew how to save Terri? Sometimes, as they say, silence is deafening. The passion wasn’t fierce enough for Jackson to appear to align himself with the “vast right-wing conspiracy” types. Now that the trumpets are silent and the soldiers have left the field, Jackson finds it safe to reveal his moral indignation. How interesting. Isn’t it too little and way too late?
In truth, I think Terri’s parents, brother and sister can teach Jackson quite a bit about suffering and faith. Jackson should be taking notes, not giving press conferences.
You can read the whole sickening story here. I suggest an empty stomach.