I was born with a feistiness my parents couldn’t spank out of me.
So I completely understand (read: even enjoy) when good, healthy debate gets started on this blog. I write about politics, faith, and all of the other things you mama told you not to mention at dinner. So just don’t eat your dinner while reading my blog and it’ll out work out *grin*
In all seriousness, I welcome ALL points of view in the comment section. I do not believe in editing or deleting comments unless they are an attack on another reader, in which case I will be forced to delete the comment. But other than a direct attack, I want to hear from YOU – even if you and I don’t agree or you think the bulk of the other readers won’t agree with you- its ok! please still comment! Even in a disagreement people can gain understanding, which I think its a really understated gift. And plus, we usually surround ourselves with people who only feel like we do…so you’d be doing the rest of us a favor by teaching us to try and understand a different perspective and how to love someone in the midst of disagreement- let’s be honest, we could all use some challenges and some stretching.
The guidelines for posting on this blog are simple and based on something Jesus said. (And even if you aren’t a Christian, the principle is good):
When He was asked what the greatest commandment was, He first to love the Lord with all ones heart, soul and mind. And secondly to love one’s neighbor as himself. He said that every other command in the whole Bible is built upon those foundational ways of relating.
So keep in mind, believers, that even if you think someone is wrong based on the Bible, if you aren’t loving them (as you would yourself! tall order!) when you respond you have essentially kicked the legs right out from under your argument. Jesus also warned that (again, for believers) hating someone is the same murdering them in your heart.
With that said, there is no room for soul- judging or name- calling or offense language here.
If you feel you are unable to abide by the law of loving your neighbor in your comment, please do not comment. Not sure about your comment? Compare it to the “deeds of flesh” and “fruit of the spirit” listed below, and I think that will clear it up for you.
So, go ahead! Be feisty and passionate and share you thoughts- just don’t malign your neighbor in the process!
Thanks,
Kate
mcdonkate@gmail.com
GALATIANS 5:13-26
For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.”
But if you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another.
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.
For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please.
But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law.
Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality,
idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions,
envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.
Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another.
I just stumbled upon this treasure chest that is your blog. What a blessed way to start my day!
Kate, I cannot tell you how refreshing it is to read your blog. Thank you so much for your honestly and for just being “real!”
I came upon your blog because of my love for Shawn’s music. I know, because of following him on Myspace and Twitter that you are both going through a terribly difficult time. While I could never even imagine the struggles that come with fame, I can understand the hardships of marriage. My heart aches for this situation for some reason, I have struggled with my own marriage, and have felt the pain of disappointment and devastation and as I write this I cry. Like I said, I am not sure why, I have loved Shawn’s music for years and it hurts me to know that such heartache is being felt between the two of you. I read much of your blogs and postings and feel sad that not much is mentioned about your current and ongoing hurts, I am sure that it is too hard for you to talk about and that is why it is all covered with ramblings of your son and house hunting and everyone else in your life, but I fail to see your husband mentioned very much and my heart longs to read something that reveals your love for your him. I am not judging when I write this at all, I assure you of that, for it took many a day to heal my marriage and my husband is not a believer, but through prayer, dedication and determination I am more in love now than I ever have been. I am praying for you and will continue to rest in the fact that when the Lord brings two hearts together it is to further His plan and not ours. I hope that you and Shawn can find it in your hearts to forgive one another. God Bless You, Shawn and Cohen.
I am writing to apologize for the above post. God really convicted my heart this morning about writing to you. How presumptuous of me to assume that because you are not writing about certain things that you are not hurting. I don’t know you and have no idea what your situation is and it was very wrong of me to think that I do. How dare I point out something in someone else’s life when I have so many struggles of my own. Please accept my apology and be assured that I will not be opening my mouth again on any blog. Thank you.