tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-284907023090546256.post6914435981408091847..comments2023-10-18T07:31:48.953-04:00Comments on Convergence: Art and Faith: Patience: Wednesday January 13Convergencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10965119850917228605noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-284907023090546256.post-5261737580559080062010-01-14T11:24:54.029-05:002010-01-14T11:24:54.029-05:00This goes back to worrying about what others' ...This goes back to worrying about what others' think of you, and judgment of others. If we can't deal with tough issues in a church setting or with a close friend, then we must evaluate the authenticity and transparency of those relationships. The reason I came back to the church after a prolonged absence was the freedom to express pain in a safe environment. I developed the maxim, "if you can't cry in church, where else can you cry?" But yes, tears were met with fear and disdain. My old church (not here) was used to pomp & circumstance, not pain. God loves us, provides, and although intangible, comforts us. We must re-evaluate our relationships if they cannot be honest & genuine. How can you be a patient friend and Christian, full of grace and mercy? How can we stop judging each other so harshly? What else can we do, but pray for one another, be available, & yet admit these flaws?theonoreply@blogger.com