It must have seemed such a good idea. One of the winners at the recent BAFTA ceremonies was a film about a Tourette’s sufferer, John Davidson. Tourette’s Syndrome takes different forms, but in some cases in can cause sufferers to shout out obscenities and profanities. Unfortunately, a microphone was put in front of Mr Davidson and, when two black actors appeared on stage, the Tourette’s struck and he shouted out a racial insult. The actors, whilst clearly surprised, responded with professionalism and carried on. The situation was exacerbated by the BBC not editing out the offensive word, either at the time or for some hours after the programme was made available on their website. For the most part, the criticism has been at the BBC, who have apologised. However, some of have suggested that Mr Davidson should not have been invited, as the slur could damage the well-being of those who heard it. It is of course easy for myself to comment, as someone not directly involved. However, Jesus had much to say about the primacy of love and on the price of being one of his followers. I am not always easy to love; I am grateful for those who have the grace to put up with my foibles and who forgive my misdeeds. It cannot always be easy, but the is the way of the cross is the risky path of perseverance.
Rev David Poyner