There's a group on Facebook for ELCA Clergy. It's a lot of fun. We discuss/argue about theology, give advice, share stories. There are more than 3200 members in the group and its growing everyday.
There are some people in that group that drive me nuts. Some about whom I think "YEE GADS - These are ELCA PASTORS???"
And then it occurs to me. There are people thinking the same thing about me.
I've been resisting the urge to blog about this group. Despite its many charms, I think I may find it less enjoyable than you do. I genuinely love the great majority of our colleagues, and am proud to be on the same team of smart, faithful, passionate people.. But I'm not sure that the internet, and especially the exchange of very brief messages unaccompanied by the non-verbal clues that ease social interaction so much, help me to grow in love.
ReplyDeleteAh but I've been engaging in online discussion/arguing since the days of usenet in the 90s and have learned to grow a thick skin. I think what i like about it is that it is so easy to disengage when it becomes too heated. I just ignore the thread. Of course some people argue that is what is wrong with online interaction, that it is better to be required to stay and work it out. But honestly aren't there some times even in real life when it would be better for all if you could just "hide the thread"?
ReplyDeleteI alternate between fascination and revulsion. hmmm...
ReplyDeleteOh that's how I feel when I go over to Lutheran Forum I don't even post there anymore. Those people are downright mean.
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