Editor's Note

Originally, this blog had no "set" purpose other than to be a place to easily share bits of family information and to sort through random thoughts that tend to clutter my brain. My previous title was deliberately non-specific to reflect my lack of focus.

Lately, my thoughts seem to have taken a more sobering turn as God has caused a yearning in my soul to desire a more intimate relationship with Him. In some aspects, He has used my blogger friends to help get my attention as He continues to refine me to look more like Jesus.

I want you to know that I am thankful for your willingness to share your thoughts--

Shelby and Heidi, both of you recently described blogging as a waste of time and I had to take seriously this idea. The turn my life recently has taken demands that I look much deeper than simply whether an activity is "fun" or "a good way to kill time".

Spiritually speaking I was bordering on sleep not too long ago. And, over the past couple of months have had a renewal of the awareness that Jesus bought my soul back from certain destruction and the bit of time allotted to me isn't even "mine" to waste. Because of this perspective, I know that if my computer activities do not have a purpose other than to fill some self-centered social or emotional need, then I need to be doing something else.

"Civilla", your (missing?) post about your son's assessment of blogging styles and the reasons people do it also made me think about why I am doing this and how I may look to potential readers. While I could see some truth to the descriptions ("self-centered" vs "debate" blog styles and the 3 blogger types of "self-righteous", "paranoid" and "self-wounding") , there didn't seem to be a place where I fit in. I don't want my site to be "all about me" (or even my beloved family) or to be a place to post inflammatory statements so as to start a good, rousing argument. I love God's truth and hope my writing reflects it. Although I can seem rather self-righteous, I do make an effort to remain humble (and be willing to apoligize when wrong) without becoming wishy-washy and indecisive about my statements. Perhaps I am of the "paranoid" variety? Is it possible to be all of them and yet none at the same time? :D

Anyway, that concept also caused me to look into whether I am honoring God with my time.

Terry over at Breathing Grace made a post during the Christmas season which also encouraged me to look at how blog-time should fit into my priorities. Her insight is usually well worth reading.

Kelly at Generation Cedar is constantly challenging Christian women to strive for a pure relationship with Jesus as our Lord rather than just viewing Him as a fashion accessory.

Craig and Lyle share their desire for a deeper relationship with Jesus as they study Biblical concepts and share their hearts. Megan, Karina, Terah, Lance, Ryan, Chad, Shelby and Luke share their unique perspectives of the world--through photography or with words.

I am very pleased to have met Trisch, Jennifer, Natasa, and Brenda, as interacting with you ladies has helped me to become more aware of the need for God's family to come together and hold each other in prayer. Blogging is a way to be able to share our burdens and offer comfort and support--even when we have never actually met one another.

I don't want to miss anyone, and didn't deliberately omit any names. But wanted to thank you all as I feel a richness in my life because of the ability to interact here.

Obviously, if I allow the computer to become an idol, I need to run away as quickly as possible. And if my posts are all about me, then I am truly wasting my time. Certainly, God doesn't want me to be "addicted" to the blog world or be worshiping myself. At this time, though, I am happy to say that my blog now has focus--and the main purpose is to bring honor to God as I share my thoughts.