Missed the invitation
by Walt Friesen, Hesston, Kan.
Thanks for "Dangers of Dialogue" (Sept. 15). I regret that I did not respond to the June 2 column "The Meanings of Dialogue" written by Jim Schrag and cited in the editorial. I prejudged his intentions and missed the invitation.
How we use word choices results in monumental differences, as James in the Bible also attests. In the case of Jim Schrag, I apparently worded my choice as, A, Jim trying to avoid harmful confrontation by placating people on the right and left, and, B, Jim urging hopeful new rules for engagement.
Because I have felt that my thoughts during the troublesome merger talks had been dismissed without due consideration, I now prejudged Jim's words and wrongly chose A and "acted out" my indifference. Alas. I apologize to Jim and the church.
Editor's note: In the Nov. 17 issue we will conclude Readers Say responses to our Sept. 15 request for counsel. Please see the editorial on page 31.
Associated Issue: Out of the rocking chair - Sept. 15, 2009
Associated Article: The dangers of dialogue
Current Stories
Articles
News stories, digests and Meno Acontecer
- Twins find more common ground at Bethel
- Protester sparks look at safety practices
- Church remembers bombing anniversary
- Work instead of worship on Sundays
- NEWS DIGEST - Nov. 3
- Quilting connects generations of women
- Sister-care event offers 'sowing' circle
- MWC is growing
- New obituary policy
Columns
- About the moratorium
- The spirit of Jesus empowers us
- A missed flight
- Afghanistan needs help, not bombs

