Guest Post by Morbo
I smack the right wing around on this blog on the weekends and am happy for the opportunity to do it.
But when a conservative has the gumption to stand up to the kook element in his own political party, I think that individual deserves a word of thanks.
That’s why these days I’m keeping a good thought for Circuit Court Judge George W. Greer in Pinellas County, Fla. — and urge you to do likewise.
Greer has been described as a “compassionate conservative” and a deeply religious man — yet he has become the radical anti-abortion movement’s public enemy number one. He has been at the center of controversy for seven years now because the case involving Terri Schiavo happened to end up in his court.
The New York Times ran a front-page piece on Greer the other day. This is a judge who has been forced to make some tough decisions. Throughout the ordeal, one never got the impression that his opinions were anything but carefully weighed and deliberated. He has always treated both sides with civility and respect. And although he must be frustrated over the Florida legislature’s constant grandstanding over this issue, Judge Greer has remained cool and calm on the bench.
In short, the man sounds like a real professional. But what has he received for his time and effort? Crude e-mails and death threats.
Opponents have sent hundreds of letters and e-mail messages to the judge, picketed his courthouse in Clearwater, and, in a few cases, friends said, threatened his life. He stopped attending his longtime church, Calvary Baptist in Clearwater, in 2003 after it sent a publication to the congregation sharply criticizing him.
Judge Greer is now escorted by armed guards wherever he goes. This is no overreaction. After all, we know that some extremists in the “pro-life” community don’t hesitate to use violence to achieve their goals. Naturally, the judge is concerned his for his safety and the safety of his family.
The judge’s position is an elected one. He was returned to office in 2004, although opponents circulated fliers against him headlined, “Please help stop a judicial murderer!” A petition calling for his impeachment is floating around on the web.
Judge Greer will probably never read this, but I think it’s important for him to know that many Americans support and respect a judge who has bent over backwards to treat a serious issue like this with the care and attention it deserves. Thanks to Judge Greer, no one can say those who want to keep Schiavo hooked up to machines have not had their day in court. Indeed, they’ve had seven years worth.
I’d also like to say this to the judge: Any church that would push a guy like you out doesn’t deserve to have you as a member. One of the great things about America is religious freedom. Find a new spiritual home. I can guarantee that many houses of worship would be proud to call you a member.