Until yesterday, Facebook was a source of joy. It has kept me connected to high school and college friends, as well as members of my congregation.
In my status line, twice daily I place a quote about peace. Yesterday afternoon's quote was from President Carter: "We will not learn how to live together in peace by killing each other's children."
I was not prepared for the venom.
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The friends and acquaintances I have on facebook are a wide mix: gay and straight, democrat, republican, a-political, Christian, Baha'i, Jewish, agnostic, and anywhere in-between.
I posted President Carter's quote somewhat nostalgically--three times in the past I have taken youth groups to Plains, GA to attend Jimmy Carter's Sunday School sessions. Each time, because President Carter wants to promote women in ministry as a Southern Baptist, he has asked me to open the Sunday School session with prayer.
The first comment the quote received was from an acquaintance who talked about how President Carter has helped Hamas and the PLO kill many, many children. He then suggested I read a specific book on the subject. (OK, I thought, this is what dialogue is all about)
The next comment rattled me. It was from a man whose status line is consistently filled with hatred toward the Obama administration. In his comments, he blasted me and the Carter administration.
The venom caught me by surprise, because--until yesterday--Facebook has been a place of dialogue and conversation.
My question is this: how do we engage people who are filled with hate?
As a pastor, I joyfully minister to those in my congregation with whom I disagree strongly--they are, after all, my flock.
What was my response? I did something I have never done: I "blocked" that person from ever having access to me on Facebook again. I'm not particularly happy with my decision, but I've decided that if dialogue is not possible, then I don't need to place myself in the line of fire.
Thank you for listening. In the six or so months I've been with DKos, I have thoroughly enjoyed the community, the debates, and the support Kossacks receive from one another.
--Becky