It has come to my attention (through my very trustworthy spies) that certain readers of this blog are, shall we say, somewhat reluctant to comment on any post for fear of sounding silly in front of the other readers. I happen to know that the persons in question are incredibly thoughtful and perceptive, and would put the commenters at other blogs to shame.
In a sense, I understand the fear of commenting (no one likes to misspell the word “teh” over and over). And a certain amount of reticence to speak is certainly praised in the Bible: “Whoever restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding. Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent” (Proverbs 17:27-28).
That said, I hope that fear is not keeping any of the highly intelligent readers of this blog from commenting. If you have a thought or opinion about a certain matter, throw it out there. If you think I’m full of silly string in what I post, I’d very much like to hear about it (I hear they have medical procedures to deal with that sort of thing nowadays). If I’m unclear or fuzzy in something I write, I’d really like to hear about it. And, of course, always remember that there are no stupid questions, only stupid people (just kidding; see, you were planning to comment and I had to go and say something like that!).
In all seriousness, I am personally acquainted with most of the you who pass through these parts. I like you. Heck, I’m flattered that you keep coming back. So if you’re one of the ones who’s been lurking around, pick a post and dive in. You (and I!) will be glad you did.
February 25, 2009 at 8:19 am
OK, fine- I’ll comment!
So, I was thinking that it is really important to…
Never mind, this is too scary.
February 25, 2009 at 12:48 pm
I thought I’d properly introduce myself, since I’ve been commenting with some regularity and you said you know most everyone reading… My name’s Abigail, my husband Tom and I are at the North campus. We’ve been at BBC for 7 1/2 yrs.
Do you know Jason DeRouchie? I ask because I see you instruct at BCS and I know he will be too. The DeRouchies are good friends and are in our small group.
February 25, 2009 at 12:52 pm
I do know Jason (hopefully we’ll get to know each other even better as he transitions to BCS). My wife and I were at the marriage retreat last year; I believe you and your husband led worship.
I appreciate the thoughtfulness of your commenting. Simply knowing that someone else is reading helps to keep me from going too far off the rails.
February 25, 2009 at 1:52 pm
Do you mind if I add remanations to my blogroll? I think a lot of my readers would be interested in your content.
February 25, 2009 at 2:05 pm
Not in the least. The more the merrier, I always say.
February 26, 2009 at 1:54 pm
Why do I feel like this was directed at me?? Oh ya! Because I think I remember having this conversation with your spy. =D But see? I took to heart all of our lessons on Proverbs…I guess now I just need to pay attention to Paul’s exhortation to Timothy! Although I don’t really feel like this is necessarily a “gift” that i have that needs to be exercised, the part where Paul says that he needs to exercise it SO THAT progress may be seen encourages me. I want to continue to grow and develop and mature in my walk…and i guess that means i need to exercise even maybe my thoughts so that I can grow that way.
I guess a “fear” or “intimidation” could also be pride right? Not wanting to fail or make mistakes because of what others may think. HA! This could be good for me =D, after all, humility is a good thing!
Thanks Joe, for all that you do and are teaching me! God is using you in our lives, and I am so thankful to be a part of it…and– I shall try to take this post to heart:)
February 26, 2009 at 4:36 pm
As I was just personally redirected to this site, I feel this is a good place to start. I plan to be contrarian and generally obnoxious, a part I play well. (as much as I can, because for better or worse I will probably find myself agreeing with Joey more often not.)
What gets me excited is that you somehow pulled a bible quote out as a legitimate reason for not commenting. That, my friend, is impressive.
February 26, 2009 at 4:54 pm
Julie, Thanks for putting yourself out there. I look forward to your thoughts.
Curt, when I encouraged you to check out this blog, I failed to anticipate what I was getting myself into. So consider the reference to Proverbs 17:28 a personal gift to you. If not, then Proverbs 26:3 should do nicely.
February 26, 2009 at 4:59 pm
and at what point have you ever accused me of following scriptural mandates well?