Shirley Phelps Roper is one of the most controversial figures in America today.
As one of the prominent members of The Westboro Baptist Church, the daughter of Pastor Fred Phelps has enraged Americans across this Country with protests at the funerals of fallen military heroes, celebrities, and anyone else that is deemed immoral by Westboro Baptist's strict adherence to Biblical scripture.
In almost every interview that she has done, hostilities eventually rise to the surface and things deteriorate rapidly.
One of the things I have found interesting over the last couple decades since "Political Correctness" began it's stranglehold on America, is how those who abhor the intolerant, MEET THEM with intolerance.
To me, that's like trying to extinguish a fire with a flame thrower.
So our approach was a little different, and I think a lot more of the American ideal of yesteryear.
We wanted to give the history of Westboro Baptist, shed some light on where the family really comes from, and discuss the catalyst to the entire "God Hates Fags" agenda.
In the end, we didn't change Shirley's mind about anything, and I know we won't change America's, nor should we.
But we did achieve what we set out to do.
We had a civil discussion with someone who has extremely different life views than ours, we got a little bit better of an understanding of where Shirley comes from, and most importantly, we maintained civility while still making our positions clear.
Something I think a few other real journalists should think about.
If I want to see screaming matches....I'll watch Jerry Springer.
So check out the episode....
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