Since the inception of the Intramuralist nine years ago, we have enjoyed a spirited discussion covering hundreds of \u2014 actually, well over a thousand \u2014 topics. It\u2019s been thought-provoking, encouraging, and often challenging\u2026 sometimes all at the same time.<\/p>\n
As stated here frequently, the goal of this blog is not that we persuade one another into all thinking the exact same thing. We don\u2019t. We can\u2019t. And I don\u2019t believe such clonal thinking is wise nor necessary.<\/p>\n
The goal of the Intramuralist is to learn to communicate in such a respectful manner that others can actually hear what you have to say. The reality is that if a person isn\u2019t willing to communicate respectfully, the chances of them being heard readily diminishes.<\/p>\n
The Intramuralist desires to be heard. I desire to hear you. I desire for each of us to actively listen to one another. And if we listen well, ask good questions, and interact respectfully, each of us can and will be sharpened.<\/p>\n
I desire to be sharpened. And yes, I desire to grow.<\/p>\n
Exemplifying that desire to listen to others, for nine years, we have offered our infamous Guest Writer Series at the end of summer. The series is a collection of insight, opinion, and offerings from someone other than me, published in late July\/August of each year. If we are going to be sharpened, we need to listen to persons other than one \u2014 or rather, other than only the insulating likeminded.<\/p>\n
I believe this year\u2019s writers to be excellent. They are intuitive, thoughtful, and diverse. They hail from various professions all over the country\u2026 from a business executive to a stay-at-home mom\u2026 from a writer to a nurse\u2026 from a student to a salesman\u2026<\/p>\n
They speak with different styles, using varied tones.<\/p>\n
Collectively, no less, they have chosen a wide variety of subjects \u2014 subjects in which each of the respective writers is individually passionate. For example, beginning Tuesday, in the next few weeks, you will hear opinions on evolution, climate change, adoption, etc. You\u2019ll hear from one about the importance of our individual, physical health \u2014 encouraging each of us to take sincere stock in such. You\u2019ll hear from some articulate millennials \u2014 one on what it\u2019s like to live in a foreign land this summer \u2014 and another talking to parents about what it\u2019s like to grow up with depression.<\/p>\n
We learn from the varied angles\u2026 angles different than our own.<\/p>\n
You\u2019ll also hear several commentaries on current challenges affecting our society, culture, and government. I appreciate the varied approaches to how we navigate through the seemingly increasing incivility. That is a theme mentioned by many.<\/p>\n
Also planned is a multi-part series on why a person would choose to be a Democrat or a Republican. It is logical and well thought out and not inflammatory in any way. Remember that each perspective is sincere and respectful; hence, we can be sharpened and grow.<\/p>\n
Let me also be clear to state that the perspectives shared may or may not be opinions I agree with. But again, agreement has never been my goal. My goal is for respectful dialogue. I am committed to respectful dialogue. Always.<\/p>\n
Additionally, during this time, I will be taking a bit of an intentional respite, resting and reflecting and being recharged. Rest is good, my friends. It helps us do what we\u2019re called to do; it\u2019s important to rest intentionally. I thus look forward to the break, but I look equally forward to being back and penning multiple (exceptionally witty)<\/em> posts upon my return.<\/p>\n So sit back. Enjoy. Learn. Be sharpened. \u2028\u2028Let the author know what you think.<\/p>\n But do so respectfully. Always.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s to the 2017 Guest Writer Series, introducing 15 expressive guest writers, starting Tuesday. I can\u2019t wait. The broad diversity, the sincere articulation, and the mutual respect\u2026<\/p>\n This, my friends, is good.<\/p>\n Respectfully\u2026 <\/p>\n [Photo by Thomas Martinsen<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a>]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Since the inception of the Intramuralist nine years ago, we have enjoyed a spirited discussion covering hundreds of \u2014 actually, well over a thousand \u2014 topics. It\u2019s been thought-provoking, encouraging, and often challenging\u2026 sometimes all at the same time. As stated here frequently, the goal of this blog is not that we persuade one another … <\/p>\n
\nAR<\/p>\n