Into the Fire

I named my blog "Into the Fire" for many reasons. Here's an excerpt from a 2007 post:

"'Into the Fire' signifies to me that I’m entering a hot zone. A place where you can get singed. A place where you empty some heart contents and discover if anyone else sifts through the smoke of your admissions and admits to feeling the same kinds of bristling heat. It’s a willful step forward into the place where your assertions, be they serious or an attempt at humor, are fair game for anyone who happens to stop by to read them. It’s definitely an avenue to vent, but there is the danger of being victimized by a flame thrower. (I have been blessed by wonderful visitors to this blog.) It is a soapbox for opinions, but it is also an electronic “pulpit” from which to preach. It is a place with a potentially significant risk factor. The risk is that those who stop by will disagree so strongly as to never return, that others will vent their strong opinions against whatever has been posted, and the even bigger risk is that I will assume that everything I have to say is worthy of reading. Make no mistake: I would love to make it so."

I stand by that old post even though there's more to it than is quoted here. I've been singed a couple of times here and elsewhere, but all things considered, I've had a rewarding time. I've made some amazing friends across this great nation, met a few of them in person. Although it's a stretch to come up with blog posts day in and day out, it's a good stretch. Occasionally I find it necessary to extend thanks to those of you who visit here. You make my days. You're often brilliant and profound, funny and silly, kind and generous of spirit. I love you guys. Thank you for contributing to my fire.

Father, please bless the lives of those who take the time to contribute to my life. As important as they are to me, they're even more important and precious to you. Thank you for them. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.