I like to read. It doesn’t matter if it is books, magazines, internet news sites, blogs, or labels on the food we buy. In my family reading takes priority over a lot of other things. I tell you this so that you have a basis for what I am about to write.

I am drawn to things that are biographical in nature, having to do with culture, and things related to the church. I also enjoy reading first person accounts because they seem more personal to me. I have noticed what I would call a “disturbing trend” in what I have been reading. The type of biographies, books, and blogs I am coming across in my reading leaves the impression that there is only one way to do something. The writer’s way is always best. I guess that is how you get published these days, pontification is a best seller. (or you start a blog)

There seems to be no grace allowed for differences in opinion or in taste. I am not talking about things that the Bible states as non-negotiable, but truly opinion issues. I guess we all get so wrapped up in our own pet arguments we fail to see that there might be a middle ground for understanding. There could also be some personal preferences involved, that’s o.k. , but we need to recognize this and not run down another way because it doesn’t match who we are or what we like.

I know that some people might say, “He’s lost his mind.” Some could say, “I knew he had been reading way too much of what ‘that person’ writes.” Possibly some might think, “He has become to open minded.”

I think the truth is more along the lines, I am at a place in my learning that values balance and differences as good. We really do need the both/and, and not just the either/or. There are definite times when either/or is necessary, like when the Bible draws those conclusions. Other than those times I need to be very careful about how I communicate things. Words matter in communication, as do symbols and images. Even as I am typing this I am trying to be cognizant that it will possibly be scrutinized and chastised. Why, because words matter. There is probably some emotion that has been created in reading this post. If you agree with the post you are happy, if you disagree you are trying to figure out how to comment about what I have written. Just remember, words matter, and it is possible that you and I are both wrong.