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In this blog I desire to present the truth of the gospel restored, as it is held to in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and to hold open, friendly conversation about that truth. I do not claim to have a perfect understanding, so naturally all statements coming from me will be filtered through my understanding and not to be laid at the feet of the church where there is error on my part. As I see my own mistakes, I will make my best attempt at correction.
5 comments:
Please define and clarify "friendly discussion" as compared to "fruitless debates".
Thanks,
Chris
I appreciate your desire for clarification. When I was meaning "friendly discussion" I was trying to express the desire that all comments or questions be given in courtesy and respect in regard to whomever the comment or question was aimed at. By "fruitless debates" I am trying to express the desire to not have a "conversation" going on where after a period of time it is at an obvious point that it is all now just argument where there is no willingness to have understanding on one or both parties parts. An example of a situation based on things I've seen before; is of two people having opposing opinions, both convinced that they are right (which is fine), but one or both attempting only to argue the person to their point of view and never give thought to coming to a better understanding of where the other person is coming from and why they believe what they believe. I hope that helps a little. Let me know, I may need to clarify and reword things so that what I'm saying is understandable.
Also, I received a comment off the blog asking about what I meant by discussion. It did help me to think a little more about what my focus is for this blog, so I may need to make some changes in wording in certain areas. I suppose that my intent is to share with people the truth of who Heavenly Father is, who Jesus Christ is, Who the Holy Spirit is, what they mean to us, what we mean to them, what their plan is (as far as what we have been told) and more. I don't think I started at the best point to start, but I wanted to get things rolling and that's where my mind was at the time in all honesty. I am answering a question in the next part of the blog which will I hope also add to clarifying.
Kathy, I am waiting for more. Blessings. carol sue
I believe what Kathy means is that the discussion is to hear out people's opinions and views but not to instigate hurtful and argumentative issues. It is okay to disagree, we wouldn't have fruitful discussions if there weren't oppositions at times, but there is no need to be mean and start up in a way that only upsets people and drives them away.
Correct me if I am wrong Kathy!!
Don't doubt yourself - you have started off great. You have already started discussions amongst people.
I agree with Rachel's definitions and assessment. There really is no "best" place to start. This isn't some prescribed formula, if it was it would be worthless. Where you started is just fine.
Now we all know that words and language are dynamic - they mean different things for different people. I would assume that the whole point behind this is a clear exchange of ideas and information. Therefore there is nothing wrong in asking for clarification nor in providing one.
Kathy, you might he to difine, and redefine, and clarify things for people. That's just a normal part of real and true communication and discussion. It does not necessarily mean that your approach is wrong. It is not in itself a reason to doubt your self or what you're doing.
Another great aspect of good discussions is haing to rethink one's postion. A healthy re-assessment of one's thoughts and ideas does not mean doubting yourself - simply the verasity and validity of the facts you have. Don't be affraid to rethink an idea.
Keep it up, I think this could be a very interesting journey for you.
Chris, I hope you continue asking your questions, I always find them thought provoking.
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