Obama's Talking Points on Warren

The Huffington Post has posted an article and has a number of links regarding opinions over Obama's pick of Rick Warren to deliver the invocation at the inauguration. Obama's transition team has received a flurry of negative response.

When questioned about his pick of Warren, here is what Obama said:

"A couple of years ago I was invited to Rick Warren's church to speak despite his awareness that I held views that were entirely contrary to his when it came to gay and lesbian rights, when it came to issues like abortion," he said. "Nevertheless I had an opportunity to speak, and that dialogue I think is part of what my campaign's been all about, that we're not going to agree on every single issue, but what we have to do is to be able to create an atmosphere where we can disagree without being disagreeable, and then focus on those things that we hold in common as Americans."

Now that the dust is starting to settle somewhat, this is what I am seeing:

1) It was good that there was a reaction to the selection of Warren and that Obama needed to give his reasons.
2) It was good for the public to do some 'vetting' of this rising star, Rick Warren, as to who and what he is really about. I hope this will continue.
3) It showed that those who want change in our country will need to make it themselves--get passionate and get organized--rather than wait for the president to do it.
4) It has caused us to consider the difference between appointments that are symbolic and those that effect policy. Both are important, but they are important in different ways.
5) I suppose I could be a bit more forgiving. It is Obama's party and he can invite who he wants. Or can he? I don't know. It will be fun if Ahmadinejad gets invited. Maybe Rick can take him out right there in the name of Jesus.

I read a suggestion (and have lost the source) that those who support a more inclusive cabinet and staff for Obama can use the energy of this moment to advocate for that. Want openly gay people involved in Obama's administration? Want to end this war? Want the President to be clear with the people about the looming energy and economic crisis? Contact the transition team.