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I learned an interesting thing on our walk yesterday. We have two dogs, Jasper and Jada [they gave me permission to use their names], mixed labs. We walk them using 16-ft extended leashes. I had noticed this before, but I paid more attention this time from the start. When they circle each other, they always circle counter-clockwise. In other words, whenever I had to untangle the leashes from crossovers, it always followed this pattern. They may begin a clockwise routine and reverse it, but they never completed a clockwise move. This pattern remained throughout the 2 mile walk. Interesting. I'll have to test this some more, but not call out each time they complete a circle (like I did yesterday), because it may annoy Lois. I'll get back to you. Like you care :)
*****
Lois and I had a stimulating 3-way phone conversation with Jill yesterday morning, regarding my recent article on an "alternative salvation plan." What made it interesting was that it wasn't a debate. A debate is a system in which one side attempts to win the argument. None of us were in it for that. We three have different takes on the Bible and Biblical doctrines (Lois and I are more in line with each other), and it was enjoyable discussing the reasoning that we each have on various spiritual matters. Of course, all of this is prompted by our (Lois and me) sudden exit from Christian fundamentalism and my pithy ramblings on framedbyfaith.com. I particularly like to have my thoughts challenged, and Jill makes a good sparring partner.
A large part of the discussion centered on the reliability of the Bible. How much of it is God-breathed? Is it dangerous to pick and choose some verses, yet hold out other verses for closer scrutiny? Can some verses be lost in translation, or were God's words interpreted incorrectly? How much can be taken literally, and what should be regarded as symbolic? Good stuff. It's in this interchange of ideas that I have come to realize that I was unable to discuss calmly spiritual matters when I was a Christian fundamentalist. I'm learning so much more now, and I am eager to continue in this fascinating dialogue.
Another thing I've learned over the years is that, in order to make the dialogue effective, both parties must keep their answers or comments short. I don't mean just one or two words, nor do I mean just one or two sentences. But some people (not you, Jill) can go on and on, re-stating the same position. That could be due to the fact that, while you were talking, they were forming a lengthy response in their mind, not really hearing what you said. Another is that they believe that an overwhelming response gives credibility to the perceived truth embedded in that response. Also with lengthy comments, the speaker will often hit several points that you need to respond to, but, by the time you get your turn, you've either forgotten some of them, or you wish that you had taken notes. I am willing to accept the fact that I have a simple mind, and I need to process things in small bites.
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Lord, thank You for days off, dogs and discussions. All things are beautiful when received in love.
Amen
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