Columbia, SC — I’m pleased that Columbia will celebrate the 50th anniversary and tell the stories of the brave men and women whose courage helped ignite the Civil Rights movement in South Carolina in 1963.

A few years ago I read a statement by Dr. Martin Luther King that said “In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” These words have made my life uncomfortable. I realized I was one of those friends he was referring to.

At the State House, a flag flies that’s in direct contradiction to the teachings of God. By man’s law it’s legal. In God’s eyes, I believe it’s an abomination.

For some time now, I’ve been going to this flag and praying that the hearts of those responsible will understand how hurtful and demeaning it is. I believe that if those of us who believe in Jesus Christ will come to its place and pray, one day the flag will come down. If you’re no longer willing to be silent, I implore you, step out in faith, come to this place, pray that God’s will be done.

As Dr. King also said, “Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.”

Gary L. Goodman

Lexington