I contend that “aid-in-dying” bills empower a personal ethical standard and promote a compassionate theology of a sympathetic Creator. Of course, there needs to be parameters for such delicate legislation, but the right of a terminally ill person to end their life is theirs alone

It is unlikely the Southern Baptist Church in East Tennessee where Zach Russell grew up will be singing any of the songs from his debut full-length album, “Where the Flowers Meet the Dew.” The mysticism weaving through the roots-Americana project would be too “out-there” for even those with far less rigid theologies.