The White Elephant in the Room

Well, now, it's been awhile, hasn't it? I'm trying to figure out when time decided to slam into light speed. Can't believe how quickly days go by. Nor can I believe how immersed I am in each of those days, scrambling to get to the end of my to do list. Never happens, of course. But hey, I'm trying. (My darlin' hubby says I'm as trying as it gets...)

I've thought about posting a blog a number of times, but with all that's been happening with the economy and the presidential election, I felt...overwhelmed. I mean, seriously. How to write something that didn't sound trite? How to offer new insights when it seems it's all been said already? How to turn on the TV without running screaming from the room, either because the news is so bad or, even worse, because there's ANOTHER political ad slamming this or that opponent??

Well, as much as I'd like to say I had an epiphany, that I'm coming to you with words of encouragement and grace...I got nuthin'. But I'm happy to report that a friend of mine, Bonnie Leon, has something, and she says it with eloquence and grace. So check out Bonnie's blog for Oct. 26.

Also, if you're around at 6:30 pm (pacific) tonight, be sure to listen to the Focus on the Family broadcast. It's about Barak and his stand on abortion. I know, I know, you're all probably as tired as I am of this whole thing, but this is, to my way of thinking, the single most important issue in this election. Yes, the economy is important. Of course it is. And yes, we need a president who can lead this country out of the financial slump it's in. But I believe that will only happen if we have a president who can lead us out of a far more important slump we've not only fallen into, but so many seem to be diving into it: the morality slump. Seems we've gone from being One Nation Under God to one nation out to get God and anyone who believes in Him. We need someone in our country's most powerful role who means what he says, who speaks with integrity, and who stands for truth. Who will stand against the increasing onslaught of anti-faith sentiment from those who are convinced separation of church and state is about "protecting" the state rather than the other way 'round.

We need wisdom, friends. And the courage to do what's right. Which leads me to my last thought...

If you're not already doing so, I beseech you to pray. Seek God's wisdom and will, and ask Him to touch the heart of mankind that we may make a decision based on what's right, not what looks good. Or sounds good. Most of all, ask Him for mercy. Because, my friends, we need it more than ever before.

And that need will only increase if we, as a nation, make a decision on Nov. 4th based on media hype and distorted truths rather than reality and facts. I hope that doesn't happen. But at this point...I'm preparing for exactly that. Which is why, in the face of our faltering nation and unsteady future, I'm holding fast to this:

"God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!
"A river brings joy to the city of our God, the sacred home of the Most High.God dwells in that city; it cannot be destroyed.From the very break of day, God will protect it. The nations are in chaos, and their kingdoms crumble! God’s voice thunders, and the earth melts!
"The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress....
"`Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.'
"The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
"the God of Israel is our fortress."

In His Peace...

Karen

To Blog or Not to Blog...That's STILL the Question

A week or so ago I was at the ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) conference, and heard a number of conversations/debates on the value--or lack therein--of blogging. Here are some of the comments I heard floating around me:

"You have to blog if you're going to make it."
"If you want to make it in this business, don't waste your time blogging."


"Blogging is a great way to prime the pump as a writer."
"Blogging is a waste of time. Focus on writing your book."

"Blogging is the best way to connect with your readers."
"Readers want your books, and blogging takes you away from them."

"No one ever comments on my blog."
"I get 40 comments every time I post!"

By the time I'd heard a number of these conversations, here was my reaction:

AAAAAAGGGGHHHH!

Clear as mud, yes? Needless to say, blogging is still a hot topic, especially for writers and publishing professionals. In July I attended the Academy of Christian Editors breakfast, where the main topic of discussion was...? Yup, blogging. I was asked to speak on the benefits of blogging; another well-known editor spoke on why he doesn't blog. The ensuing discussion was...hmmm...interesting. I was amazed at how some of these learned folks viewed the blogosphere, and encouraged by the few who not only felt it holds value, but who have blogs themselves. Which isn't to say I think everyone should blog. It's a lot of hard work. And you need to be doing it for the right reasons.

Agent Rachelle Gardner has a thoughtful, thought-provoking post on this very issue on her blog, which actually triggered this blog entry. Lots of good points, and some very insightful comments. If you're blogging, or considering blogging, I'd encourage you to check it out.

As for me, I really enjoy blogging, but the fact that I can't keep this blog current concerns me. So I'm pondering ways to fix that. I have some ideas, but any thoughts or suggestions are welcome. Mostly, I want to be sure I'm doing what is serving people best. And what is helping fulfill the tasks God's given me.

Peace to you today.

Karen