Browsing Tag

social media

Junkyard Management, Leadership, Random Thoughts,

Yeah, but …

Have we forgotten how to listen? Have we forgotten how to communicate? Is it all just slogans, memes, and bumperstickers these days? Are those mostly written to be abrasive and provoke others, as they reaffirm our own bias?

I’m not quite ready to say, “Yes, yes, yes, and yes.” But we’re getting close. The tone is sometimes too toxic for listening. Which is sad.

Freedom of speech is at the bedrock of our nation and our culture. It is our strength. But as with all strengths, it can be leveraged against us. It’s easy to divide people simply by saying …

Random Thoughts,

Dear Pastors, Please Stop Posting Pictures Online

Dear Pastors,

When it comes to social media, please stop posting pictures of yourself on stage. Or the stage itself. Or the band. Or the cool lighting.

To you it looks like an invitation. You think it says, “Look, we’re cool! Come visit!”

In truth it says, “Look, we’re like every other gathering of people you’ve ever been to, with lights, music, and somebody who bores you for 30 minutes in a conference room!”

Most importantly, it does not tell people who Jesus followers really are.

Jesus said we should be known by our love. Not our sound system.

James …

Random Thoughts,

Social Media, Politics, and Silence

It’s an election year and social media is filled with vitriol. Sad, really. Here’s what I see as the problem with online political rants:

Q: How long will I feel better after venting?

A: Maybe a minute.

Q: Will it change anybody’s opinion?

A: Nope.

Q: How many people will it frustrate?

A: About half my online friends.

Maybe it’s better to embrace silence when we are tempted to shout about our frustrations.

I definitely have my opinions, but let’s talk about them, not shout about them. Let’s talk over a glass of wine or cup of coffee. Not over …