TED HAGGARD'S WIFE SWAP
Posted by Mike Foster:
I was online today and I read some harsh comments about the fact that Ted and Gayle Haggard are appearing on Celebrity Wife Swap on ABC.
Unfortunately, this isn't new for the Haggards. It seems like everything they do is scrutinized, dissected and put under the microscope.
I realize them appearing on a reality TV show about "wife swapping" just gives the peanut gallery another opportunity to throw the remaining rocks left in their pockets.
But consider another option. Maybe it is time to let Ted and Gayle move on with their lives and do whatever they want to do.
If they want to be on TV, start a church, walk on the moon, love each other, climb Mt. Everest, be awesome parents, do a film series, sit on their ass or start a company that makes vintage hand bags...why they hell shouldn't they be able to do that?
The beauty of grace is that it gives us permission to move on. Second chances are rooted in the freedom of the future, not the painful mistakes from our past.
As Robert Downey Jr. said about his friend Mel Gibson, maybe it's time to let them "stop hugging the cactus." All I know is that I'm thankful that someone told me that I don't have to hug the cactus anymore after all the messes I have made.
I've had the privilege of talking with Gayle a few times this year. She is an amazing woman. Strong, compassionate, kind and filled with grace.
A few years ago I interviewed Ted after the scandal and send occasional emails to him to let him know I'm praying for him and standing with him. He is a good man who loves God and is doing his best to rebuild his life. And honestly, it isn't easy.
I say that to remind all of us that at the end of the day these are people just like you and me. Second chancers in the making! And whether it's the Haggards or any other failed, flawed and hurting human being on this planet, we all need a fresh start.
Ted and Gayle, I wish you the best...and I will be tuning in.