First, a little housekeeping; I enjoy posting my reflections, opinions and discussions about being a Christian, husband, father, and also reading the thoughts of other like minded (or not) people. Some of these folks have terrific insight, one such person, and frequent visitor to my blog posts anonymously as p.s. (an after-thought). In my post on “Eyes”, I mentioned that I shared his views. His views? am I sure about that? Can it be that she had a good laugh at my comment, or did I fall into the trap of assumption and thereby offend someone? Well, in either case, we know what happens when we assume. I appreciate the “after-thoughts” of p.s. and look forward to hearing more of them.
Having said that, I have another question; are the words posted on someone’s blog or written in a letter word of mouth, or something else? I think there can be little doubt that if someone takes the time to write their thoughts and share them, such words must be equal to the spoken word and must have come from the heart. So why, if they come from the heart, do our words get us in trouble from time to time?
Jesus said, “But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this is what defiles.” Matt. 15:18 (NRSV)
Certainly we hurt each other with our words, either spoken or written. Word of mouth is often the least reliable witness that we can listen to, yet it seems to be the one that carries the most weight. When we say something that offends, we can’t simply take the words back. They are out there and they remain. The very least we can do is ask for forgiveness and understanding, then move on. Thankfully there is also a positive and pleasing quality to our words as well.
Just as the ugly connotations of insults and angry words remain, so do the endearing positive effects of our words when they are spoken in love for one another. These words not only come from the mouth, they also come from the heart. Words of forgiveness, words of healing, and words of love last longer than mere actions. Such words from the heart go directly to the hearts of others.
We should always be mindful of our words, so that when we speak what comes out of our mouths does not defile us and injure others in mind, body, or spirit. But when we do hurt others with our words, and we know that from time to time we will, we must remember that we can’t really take them back. Therefore, we must remember to speak the words of love, healing, repentance and forgiveness; because the words that hurt most of all are the words we leave unspoken.
Well, David, I’m a girl. Well, long since past girlhood.
I had forgotten that I listed myself as an either/or on the profile. Most people somehow figured out that I’m not a he. Maybe I write like a girl. I throw a ball like a guy.
I was quite annoyed (actually hurt) when I was first blogging and went to some Lutheran blogs, shall we say, Lutherans NOT of goodwill, and wrote some opinions and I was “dissed” because I am not a man.
Although I usually stick to blogs of Christians who can discuss things “nicely” and with their brain turned on, and not say you are going to “H-E-double hockey sticks” if you don’t share their opinions, I’ve figured out, unfortunately, that there are many nasty people out there claiming the name of Christ as their identity.
So I guess I was trying to hide my gender to gain some leverage. It doesn’t help on some blogs where they exclude all who disagree.
Regarding writing on blogs: I like to write, maybe too much, but I’m not disciplined enough to write a book or even a real essay for publication. I write from the heart. When I speak, I’m a bit too impulsive and unorganized. (Actually, my mind tends to travel all over the universe when I speak and people wonder where I am going next.) Writing helps tame the opinions and the “blurts.” And it helps me work things out in a more linear fashion, like the rest of you civilians do. And I can edit.
BTW, I just posted on my blog about your hands essay.
By: P.S. (an after-thought) on August 31, 2006
at 9:29 pm
I could cut and paste PS’s last paragraph too as it’s the same for me. However, I am renown for being the backspacing/editing queen when it comes to internet chat with my friends.
I do appreciate your encouraging comments at my blogspot (both of you actually). Your words are kind and David, you were so close to the true meaning of The Jug.
Thank you for using your blog and your blog comments in a positive way.
By: Carolanne on August 31, 2006
at 9:47 pm