Dear tired heart,
I see how you advocate and sound off for your cause. I see the way you stand for orphans, mental health, refugees, racism, veterans, safety, and hope (although, possibly at different times and in a different order).
Thank you for using your voice. Thank your for sharing your opinions. They do matter.
But let us also be honest.
We live in a world and a climate in which we easily lose each other’s humanity. Studies show the simple factor of communicating behind a screen directly impacts our ability to be empathic or care about other humans.
So whether this has caused you to say harsh things you would never, ever, dream of saying to someone face to face, or whether these things have been said to you, take heart, we weren’t meant to work out difficult things in only this way.
Also, this: your voice and your advocacy are important.
But also know, it is rare and uncommon for anyone’s opinions to be changed through a Facebook or twitter thread.
This doesn’t mean there’s not room for discussion, in fact, we need healthy conversation and push back. But the weight of changing someone’s mind does not fall on you. God gave each of us a brain, and we are called and responsible for our own actions and opinions.
So if your soul feels like it’s weighed down with a lead blanket, may I encourage you?
May I encourage you to log off for awhile and re-engage with your people and your hope and your faith?
This internet world is amazing and terrifying and scary and good. I have witnessed the value of it many times. But it’s just a resource. It’s not the ‘be all, end all.’ We were made for relationship, and so if you find yourself missing the grace, truth, and grit of real relationship, could you stop what you’re doing and call a friend? Could you meet for coffee? Could you go outside and breathe deep and long and slow?
And then, when you have honored the aches of your soul and done the work to care for your wounds, could you come back to us with your story and your voice?
After you have found ways to ensure you’re not sucked dry from the weight of this, can you come back?
We need you so.
I LOVE this. I’ve wanted to bang my head against a wall these past few weeks. Thanks for this. I needed it.
You are so welcome. It has been a tough season, hasn’t it? Grateful this encouraged you.
When I get this way about my husband’s salvation, I have to remind myself that God is capable of working with out me. But if I’m lucky, I will get to be involved.
Amen, Brooke. It’s so hard not to "fix" people, but instead love them and walk with them. Thanks for reading.
Thank you for this! People on the internet these days- just breaks my heart sometimes. And for this- " But the weight of changing someone’s mind does not fall on you. God gave each of us a brain, and we are called and responsible for our own actions and opinions." I need this both for the internet and day to day life.
Oh Aundy. Thanks. I’m signing off this weekend (for the most part) and needed to be reminded that it’s a good decision. Sharing this. Possibly for the second time.
Leah, I’m so grateful this speaks to your heart and encourages you to take good care of yourself. Thanks so much for reading (and sharing!) I appreciate you!