I have long thought that reading different LDS blogs was a good idea. It has given me perspective, helped me formulate my feelings on topics I'd otherwise not have thought much about, and has helped me find people I could consider true friends. But after watching Conference, I wonder. In addition to the never-before-dealt-with distraction of a toddler, I found myself thinking "Hm, wonder what they'll say about that," and "Oh, they'll not like that one bit," and "I'll bet that comes up in a blog post." These thoughts severely interfered with my ability to listen for the Lord's voice speaking to me. I have always loved Conference. It is the closest I consistently get to hearing people who know speak on the Lord's behalf. I'm a little saddened that this Conference feels wasted to me.
Though I still strongly enjoy writing, is it possible that I'm growing towards a final parting from the realm of LDS blogs? Is it more of a detriment than a help at this point to read others' struggles? Is there any purpose to my continuing?
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SilverRain, I think you're one of the few bloggers I read who can present things from a conservative faithful position in a deep and intellectual way. While listening to Sister Beck's talk, I had a very instant knee jerk reaction, but after reading some of the considered remarks I was able to see a lot of good in it. I hope you'll stay around, but even more I would love to read more of your posts. Even the Bloggernacle needs a variety of viewpoints and a great deal of diversity to keep us sane.
ReplyDeletebtw, I think you need us, too. Even if it causes you a bit of angst while listening to conference.
Ah, SilverRain, I can understand completely. I had the chance to attend Conference in person, and it was an incredible experience to be surrounded by thousands of people who were eager to listen to those whom the Lord has called to lead and direct us. A very large percentage of the audience appeared to be Asian, Latino, or descended from other than typical Utah pioneer stock. And we were thrilled to hear so many speakers who were from other countries. We definitely felt the excitement of being part of an increasingly world-wide church, fulfilling prophesies of its reach eventually extending to every nation. It was a spiritual feast.
ReplyDeleteI did find myself wondering occasionally about how negative reactions and comments were bound to come up on the Bloggernacle; but perhaps because I was actually there in the Conference Center, without any distractions, I was constantly and immediately feeling confirmations from the Spirit to the truthfulness of the things said; and I sincerely wished that all of those weighed down with doubts could feel as joyful as I did in hearing truth spoken so boldly.
I was without Internet access throughout the weekend, and I have decided that maybe it is time for me to stop reading the usual Bloggernacle sites. I know I want to change some of my priorites and spend less time on the Internet, and more time serving others.
There was a time that I felt my comments might help someone who was struggling; I yearned to share my testimony in a forum that seemed to be overrun with doubters so that a casual visitor might see that there were intelligent women who didn't have all the problems with LDS doctrine and leadership that many of the LDS blogs continue to rehash time and time again.
I have been gradually withdrawing, but I noticed that when I read a comment with which I agreed 100%, it was almost always written by m&m or SilverRain.
I hope you will continue to post here, even if you decide not to comment on the large group blogs. I'm sure there are many of us who will keep checking your blog, because we truly enjoy your insights, and your faithful perspective. :)
SilverRain, I, too, understand. If you look at my blog, I have had moments like that, and I still wonder sometimes how much I should be involved in the 'nacle. Whatever you decide to do, I am so thrilled to know you, here and also in person. :)
ReplyDeleteI love you and am grateful for all the good you have brought to this sphere.
Yes, I think I have had my share of concerns as well. I have been reading the 'nacle for about two years now and a few months. It has been good to read some perspectives and thoughts. I have grown from some of the testimonies. I do worry about the tendency of some to pick things apart. I had one of my better Conference experiences these last couple times so I still think it is okay to spend time on the 'nacle. There are some hot topics that I am so sensitive about that I generally regret reading and for my well-being, I should avoid. I enjoy LDS forums a lot too. I have met a lot of online friends who I have gained a lot from their fellowship and faith.
ReplyDeleteThank you everyone, for your comments and support. I wondered if I should post this, because it could so easily be seen as a cry for attention, but I thought it best to show my thoughts on this as they develop. I still haven't made my decision. In the spirit of Elder Oak's talk, although blogging may be a good thing, I don't know if it is the best thing.
ReplyDeleteOn the one hand, it would be better were I doing some sort of service in my ward. On the other, that sort of service takes a lot more block time than blogging. Blogging can be done while my child is napping, and can be easily set aside when she needs me.
I think this is the sort of quandary out of which only the Lord can help me.