Learning Thai

This article about an American-made movie being banned in Thailand renewed my frustrations at the labeling of the United States as a "Christian" nation. We (even here) heard a lot of that kind of talk in the run-up to last year's election and it is increasingly striking me as unhelpful. From what I've read, the movie (Zach and Miri Make a Porno) was a mainstream, R-rated movie, that made a lot of money. Yet in Thailand it will not be shown, because according to the the National Film Board, it "goes against moral principles here."

I am not arguing for more film censorship or debating whose "moral principles" are better. I'm just discouraged to read this article and realize again that this may actually further discredit Christianity in the eyes of people around the world. I'm glad to live in Thailand as a representative of God's kingdom - but I have no desire to been seen as a proponent of "American Christianity." There's just too much of what the U.S. is, does, and exports that I don't want to be associated with - and insisting on calling it "Christian" only makes it worse.

OK, that's my rant for the day. Feel free to leave a comment on why you think the U.S. still should be called Christian if you like.

We are continuing to suffer through the hottest part of the year. I know that doesn't mean much to those of you enjoying nice spring weather, but it is really, really hot! Thankfully the rains should come by mid-May. Today we're all at home, trying not to sweat too much. Tomorrow is Eliza's birthday, so we've got some fun activities planned. I'm sure a blog post will follow.

-Tom