Regarding the difficult but important conversations I have had in the past 36 (ish) hours.
I'm thinking about tactics.
Thoughts are still forming.
I'll circle back later.
There are some specific people I'd like to get involved in the conversation so I'll tag you all when I have something more coherent to say.
Laters! ❤️
I'm getting there.
I'm thinking about "friendship evangelism", a common idea in the church, and how we might apply the approach in other, non-religious contexts.
Put this picture in your mind:
A man stands on a street corner, Bible in hand, sincerely and loudly proclaiming the Gospel.
How are people reacting to him?
@stueytheround I have a friend who does it. Not many people respond at all. But those who get to know him tell a story of love and dedication. It's all in the approach. I am a great believer in friendship, then sharing, and by that, I do mean *sharing* - both sides. I've had it up to my ears with "evangelicals" Bible-bashing, but I am perfectly willing to listen, and respectfully disagree if necessary. I love God, I've also learned from others with different tales. IYKWIM?
@stueytheround People believe what they do for varying reasons, some of them very powerful. I like to hear their story before sharing mine. I, too, have been wrong in the past about my beliefs (coming from a cult). There is always much to learn from each other.
@homebird Indeed.
Keep in mind that I am only using evangelism as an illustration here. I'm not *actually* talking about religion, cults, or even politics.
This is entirely a thread about effective communication of ideas.
@stueytheround I think then, the old adage applies. We are given two ears and one mouth for a reason. So many like to "preach", not just religion, but politics, and so on. Everyone thinks they are right. It does us good to *listen* a while longer. Mutual respect.