A word on this blog

A few years back I posted this and again here. I think it's time for a reposting with a little further augmentation.

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This is a blog. It is not a news outfit. No one pays me to post anything nor is there a foundation that sends me money by the word. If we look at this with a chronological and historical eye, it was my wife who thought with all my combing of Orthodox resources on the Internet that I should put what I find in one place online. It followed me from Texas, to seminary, to the priesthood and parish life. Seven thousand, eight hundred and thirty one posts later we are here.

If I enjoy a photo of a monk throwing a snowball, it will probably get posted. If I think someone made an interesting point, it might get posted. If there is a spat between two parties and you are expecting that I'm going to strive for the news media's Israel-Palestinian parity policy you're going to be let down. There is bias, but there is also often an attempt to post from the other side as well. Also, I will post about non-Chalcedonians or even Greek Catholics (as I've done since the beginning) without feeling like I'm putting out sugary treats forming an insidious path to an inescapable gingerbread house of heresy.

If you see an article and your entire purpose for commenting is to say something snarky or be contrary, don't. There's a legion of people who already do so to my consternation. Those who are already doing it aren't grandfathered in either so I reserve the right to apply a purgative to their efforts at will.

But, I also have to say I am imperfect. In recent months I have reposted some articles that were written by others with an aim to be injurious instead of expositional. They were intended to do more harm than educate and I missed the mark in spotting them for what they were. I have tried and will continue to try to only post things where there is a benefit to readers in doing so. I will not suddenly gain perfect perspicacity through simple dint of will, though. So, when I am more clanging cymbal than timbrel and harp, please do contact me directly. Marriage, children, and parishioners have taught me how to take advice with humility. "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who heeds counsel is wise."

It's wonderful to have so many people visit every day from all over the world. There are lots of emails with stories sent to me, lots of comments on what makes it into a post, and even the occasional retweet. I appreciate it all. But this isn't network news. This is a blog. I ask that you be civil. Or, as we say to visitors in Texas, "Howdy! Wipe your feet and take your hat off."