March 17, 2006

All I did was answer a simple questionnaire asking whether or not I supported the proposed community project. I anonymously returned a response that clearly communicated my exasperation with the fractured community spirit this particular issue has created.

Five days later I read my response, printed in it’s entirety, in the local newspaper. Now, not only was I frustrated with the disunity of our community, I seemed to be clearly perpetuating it as well. If I had only known how public anonymity can be!

The power of words, the ability to influence is easily under estimated. We can be a breath of fresh air or an oppressive shroud. We can lighten and brighten or mindlessly charge ahead. Of course there’s a full continuum in between.

I’ve started a 14-day challenge to say nothing critical or negative. It’s part of the depression recovery workshop we’re hosting at church. The tendency to dwell on the negative side of life can be a real downer. Many of us live way too much on from that perspective.

I do want to speak truth with love. I don’t want a critical spirit. I do want my words to bring life and strength and positive direction to those who hear and read. And I will never again confuse anonymous with private.

“Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!” Luke 12:3

Be at peace,
Pastor Steve