Side note: I began this piece with a clear idea of its destination. Sometimes it seems that the words have different plans. I started fresh a couple of times, but the intended path never quite materialized. So I share this without knowing exactly what it’s trying to tell me. Perhaps you’ll find some clarity that eluded me. I hope it’s okay among friends to share the imperfections.
This morning I’m thinking about one of my three major 2011 goals. My description from a couple of months ago:
The keyword is readers: I want to focus on you during 2011. I want to attract more of you and find ways to make our connections more meaningful. This includes speaking opportunities, free ebooks, and perhaps some online workshops or other types of interactions.
I’m wondering about the “you” in that description. Is it singular or plural?
Jeff Lucas—in his British accent—says the southern U.S. has it figured out. They talk about “y’all” and “all y’all.” I wonder if I’m connecting to y’all or just all y’all.
WDJD (What Did Jesus Do?)
Jesus came to redeem the entire creation, to reconcile the world and humanity to God. It doesn’t get any bigger or broader or more plural than that.
But I believe He also came for me—individually, specifically, and specially. I believe He perceived me, my sin, and God’s love for me from the cross. That sounds absurdly selfish even as I write it, but it is what I believe.
Jesus considered you (plural) while never losing sight of you (individual). It’s ultimate multi-tasking—connecting with the world in eternity while living each moment fully in each individual heart.
Obviously I cannot match His ability to see everyone while seeing every one. But it’s clear that He values both singular and plural you. I feel like I’m not very good at that.
Success and struggle
Somehow it’s easier when I’m speaking. I remind myself that I’m not addressing a group. Even in a large crowd, I know I’m losing connection when I see an audience instead of faces.
And there’s always that time before and after the talk itself, the chance to shake a hand and answer questions and listen to a bit of someone else’s story. But it’s harder when I’m writing.
I can measure my connection to readers—all y’all. Subscriptions are up 21% since January 1 (thank you). Page views increased 26% (thank you, thank you). Something is happening in the big picture—that’s a good thing.
But what about y’all—the individual reader? You—the special person reading these words? Are you and I connecting is a meaningful manner that’s helpful?
Some folks complain that social media contributes to a growing sense of disconnection. Jon Swanson and Chris Brogan remind me that this blog and other social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter are just tools that connect or isolate. It’s not the tool—it’s how the tool is used.
So today I’m questioning whether I’m using these tools correctly. Am I enhancing a sense of community or hiding behind its illusion? Am I bringing us together as individuals? Because that’s what matters.
I’m just not sure. I suspect that means something needs to change, and I’m going to work at figuring that out. I don’t want to simply toss words at all y’all.
A couple of questions for you to consider:
Do you think your online presence brings you closer to individuals? How does that happen?
How can I do better at connecting with you?
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