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Jerry Powell's avatar

Let’s replace “acolyte” with another term, such as “minion” or “lackey.” Acolyte is most often used to denote a follower of religion who is entrusted with assisting an officiant. The minions of Trump and Musk are not involved in religious or spiritual behavior.

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Steven Dundas's avatar

Jerry,

Thank you for your comment and normally I would not use such a term for political hacks and until now refrained from it, and I thank you for pointing it out in your comment and have profound respect for your view and respect for the term and those who serve in that capacity.

Most of the time I use minions, lackeys or similar terminology. My choice of the word “acolyte” was deliberate. Let me explain. As a now semi-retired priest I have the greatest respect for those who serve at the altar. But I used it due to the fervent and nearly religious devotion that a lot of these people have to either Trump or Musk. MAGA and the GOP have become a cult centered around Trump, and Trump’s commands supersede the law for them. In a sense it is a religious cult with Trump as its god. That is why I used it.

Certainly no disrespect was intended, and I do thank you for your comments and the time that you allotted to read my article. I hope that you will continue to read and comment on anything that I write.

All the best,

Steve

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Jerry Powell's avatar

Steve, Thanks so much for your thoughtful consideration and reply. As a retired military chaplain myself, I have served with acolytes and others devoted to the devout. I understand now why you chose to use the term and it makes complete sense. Trump and Musk’s followers are truly acolytes in the pure sense and that is all the more shameful and disheartening for those who follow with such devotion.

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Babette Albin's avatar

Thankfully you have allowed yourself the chance to step away from the computer and regroup. That is an essential part of the healing process.

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