Lead us not into "activist" temptation & deliver us from evil

That time I gave a kiss from the stage

It was September 2012 when I got an email requesting that I give a speech at a very large rally in Times Square. The event was designed to garner support for creating no-kill animal shelters in NYC — a noble cause.

Needless to say, I gave an immediate “yes,”

I’d done many such events related to animal rights in a more ideological sense. But this rally would be attended not by career “activists” but rather, by people who loved cats and dogs but hadn’t yet deeply pondered how non-humans are abused all across the planet.

My job would be to make those broad connections from the stage.

At least one connection was definitely made that day.

I know what I’m good at and I’m not too bashful to talk about it. Put me on a stage, hand me a microphone, and place a big crowd in front of me — and I will motivate people by rocking the house.

That day in Times Square, I had those pet lovers going nuts as the wheels started turning in their heads about big-picture animal rights. One middle-aged woman, in particular, rushed up to the stage with tears in her eyes and asked if she could kiss me.

Figuring she was joking, I laughed along with the crowd. But she was serious.

As someone who’s had and rejected opportunities to play the guru role, I just wanted to keep riling people up to take action. The woman did not leave so I asked the crowd, “Should I?”

The response was a resounding “yes.” So I walked to the edge of the stage and leaned over. She reached for my face and aimed for my lips but I managed to twist just enough that all I got was a peck on the cheek.

Amidst much cheering, I got back to work and the talk was incredibly well-received.

However, I promised myself right then and there to never succumb to that temptation again. It may sound minor and harmless but moments like that are part of how “activism” has become a counterproductive and ego-driven sideshow/popularity contest.

Keep yer guard up & be like George Bailey:

“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:10-11)

********************************************************************

It would be deeply appreciated if you’d sign up to be a paid subscriber for as little as $5 per month (less than 17 cents a day) — it directly enables this blog/podcast to keep going and growing. You can find the link at the bottom of the post.

If you prefer, you can make a one-time donation whenever you’d like by clicking here. Thank you in advance!