Drew, as always, so beautifully stated. I have found myself at multiple points intrigued with the idea of gaining popularity on the web, particularly for thinking, and often reminding myself how little my voice has to offer if it's focus is myself- what I know, or more likely, think that I know but actually don't. Your writing, and welcoming of un-subscribers to reallocate their time to God's presence, displays a humility that is often lost in the race to be revered for writing or any other form of art that attempts to communicate a message to an audience. But, I imagine that what will grow as a product of your attitude is increased community of people who come back to your work for it's depth, and what they can glean from the way you process the world!
Ian, wow, thank you for taking the time to write such a kind and thoughtful note! It is such a precarious and tricky dance, this writing for an audience online. All the metrics are right at our fingertips, and I can't lie--I even habitually checked the stats on this post. I definitely don't hit the right balance, but I'm praying to grow in my open-handedness. And I'm grateful there are others striving for the same thing. What fun to be in community online!
I resonate with this. For the last few years, I've been learning to cut out whatever damages my attention span or takes away from being present. Learning that countless small bites are not always good has been a challenge.
Perhaps related: one of my friends keeps the TV in the closet. When they want to watch something, they break it out and then return it after. Revolutionary!
Maelstrom by Carolyn Custis James would be a great read for your research!
Literally just bought it. It's amazing how I can search for books like this online and not find them until someone suggests it. Thank you!
This reminds me of a favorite song, The Hurry and Harm by City and Colour. https://youtu.be/w_oYc-9wvrg?si=q98jwoaPSNjNpxnt
Woah, killer song. Thanks for sharing!
Drew, as always, so beautifully stated. I have found myself at multiple points intrigued with the idea of gaining popularity on the web, particularly for thinking, and often reminding myself how little my voice has to offer if it's focus is myself- what I know, or more likely, think that I know but actually don't. Your writing, and welcoming of un-subscribers to reallocate their time to God's presence, displays a humility that is often lost in the race to be revered for writing or any other form of art that attempts to communicate a message to an audience. But, I imagine that what will grow as a product of your attitude is increased community of people who come back to your work for it's depth, and what they can glean from the way you process the world!
Ian, wow, thank you for taking the time to write such a kind and thoughtful note! It is such a precarious and tricky dance, this writing for an audience online. All the metrics are right at our fingertips, and I can't lie--I even habitually checked the stats on this post. I definitely don't hit the right balance, but I'm praying to grow in my open-handedness. And I'm grateful there are others striving for the same thing. What fun to be in community online!
I resonate with this. For the last few years, I've been learning to cut out whatever damages my attention span or takes away from being present. Learning that countless small bites are not always good has been a challenge.
Perhaps related: one of my friends keeps the TV in the closet. When they want to watch something, they break it out and then return it after. Revolutionary!
"Learning that countless small bites are not always good"...that'll preach.
And I have never heard of storing the tv in the closet, but that truly does sound revolutionary!
Thank you for your courage and transparency in serving the work and encouraging others to do the same!
Thank you so much Rebecca! Thank you for your kind words!
Amen to that.
Thank you!