Anti-Climactic

Fred Phelps never materialized, but even the suggestion that he might come was enough to really galvanize the community. Wingspan released a wonderful thank you note to both Tucson and Fred Phelps himself, reinforcing my long-standing belief that hate mongers damage their own cause more than what they hate and that God really can use anything and anyone for good.

And finally, thank you Fred Phelps.

Thank you for not coming to Tucson, though we were ready for you and will be ready for you the next time you threaten to come.

Thank you for helping Wingspan and Rincon University High mobilize our community against hate. Because of you, hundreds of people who never had heard of Wingspan before have come through our doors and been added to our Enews list. Because of you, the students know they live in an engaged, caring community. Because of you, members of the LGBT community, school administrators, law enforcement, students and clergy—groups that have not historically worked together, were partnered in support of one another. No doubt these newly-forged relationships will continue and strengthen because of you.

Amen!