Imani MCC of Durham

I heard a “new” phrase today - as in, new to me - that I just love; so I’m going to throw it out here in case it might help someone else - “warm detachment.” I think I’m going to grow more and more in love with this concept.

Before I explain it, let me share how I came to be introduced to it. Over the last few months, the biggest, heaviest, most nearly unbearable stressors in my life have been situations that I had absolutely nothing to do with creating and about which I can do absolutely nothing. Sound familiar? In the interest of preserving close personal relationships that I value, I will not going into detail, here. Let’s just say that the subject of this blog is setting and maintaining solid emotional boundaries as a form of self-care. And the take-away thought is: Do it.

Fred Phelps is in the news again this week - this time because he is reported to be dying. According to a post by his son on a social media site, Phelps is under hospice care and “on the edge of death.” Phelps is the founder of the Westboro Baptist “Church,” the infamous “church” known for its slogan, “God Hates Fags,” and for picketing the funeral of Matthew Shepherd and others whom they identify as sinners worthy of Hell.

It has been interesting to see the responses that folks have expressed to this news on Facebook. They have ranged from prayers for his peaceful transition and for his eternal soul to one person’s very succinct, “F**k him.”