It was a year ago this week that I began my second effort at blogging. My first blog had a variety of fatal flaws. I felt it was best to let it die. Prior to this second effort, I took several months to learn some skills and this effort is much improved.
Throughout the year, I have realized that one of the best things I bring to the blogging world is encouragement and inspiration. I regularly speak with people who are facing discouraging situations. Personally I have fought discouragement on several levels (and still do). The saying, “Be kind because everyone you meet is fighting a great battle” is mostly true. Our world is in desperate need of chicken soup for its soul, a healing word that gives light and hope. I am grateful for the privilege of doing exactly that.
I have been surprised by this second effort as well. Several months ago, I looked at the statistical update of my blog. Initially I was a bit dismayed that I have only 80 people who receive this blog by email because I was hoping to have more than a 100 by now. (Hint, Hint – click on the link to the right ”Follow This Blog”). However I was shocked when I discovered the location of those who have read my words. They are not only in the United States, but also in Brazil, the Philippines, Indonesia, England, South Africa, Singapore and Ghana. People from 39 other countries have read my blog. Now I will be completely transparent and say that many of those views have been one-time views. But still, do you realize what this means? It means I have global reach. To me, it is astounding that some guy in Russia will read these words.
However, it also means that you have global impact too. It’s right in front of you. The opportunity to impact people around the world awaits you each morning. Knowing this to be true, how will you live? It’s not about blogging or writing books. It’s about living life. It’s about loving GOD and your neighbor. The world is at your doorstep each day. Your children, your spouse, your co-workers, your fellow students, and even the random checkout lady at the convenience store are part of a global network. Each day you rub elbows with individuals who need your influence, regardless of how small it may seem. See the bigger picture.
Just recently I helped my organizing wife unpack a family who had just moved. I thought about the fact that they don’t know I pastor or blog. All they know is that I am opening boxes and putting dishes in the cabinets. That’s all they need to know. That small and simple act is making a difference to them. Don’t ignore those small and simple acts. They are making a difference to people. Serve. Give. Love GOD. Love your neighbor. That kind of living will have a global impact, much more than a blog will.
PS: THANKS again for reading! And if you are a foreign visitor, if would be awesome if you would leave a comment and let us know where you are.
