Why I Blog
I have been blogging for quite some time now (since December 31st, 2003). I have enjoyed the writing. And it seems that those that read and follow the blog enjoy it as well. I got to thinking about the question "why do I blog?" That led to "what principles do I go by as I write on the blog." And this in turn lead to "what is the results of blogging." Here is what I came up with.
1. Why I Blog.
To Inform - I primarily write to keep folks up to date on what is going on here in our life in Kenya.
To Share Our Experiences - We have had our ups and downs in this journey. We have seen God work in us and through us. We think sharing what HE is doing is worthwhile.
To Entertain - I want folks to enjoy some of the funny moments we have living in a different culture.
To Process The Events of Life - So much has happened in this journey. I have found it easier to keep things in perspective by writing these things down.
To Challenge Others - We figure that you have to be half crazy to follow Jesus. We want to challenge and encourage others in their pursuit of an awesome God.
2. Blog Principles.
Be Transparent - We have tried to share the good and the bad. We share our humanity (which is fallen). Missionaries should not be put on a pedastal. They are not "holy" (I know too many of them to try and keep that farce up.)
Be Sensitive - Not everything that happens needs to be put in writing. Confidentiality is important. We don't gossip or rant. We don't complain about others specifically, although we will "complain" about institutions. We try to be sensitive to our Kenyan readers.
Be Creative - We try to be creative in writing, pictures, lay out, and content.
Be Humble - We try not to "promote" ourselves. We just tell our story. God does the rest. Besides, we are trying to be transparent.
Be Consistent - We try to write often. We usually write short posts that can be read in a few minutes. Occasionally we post a long one when it is really important.
3. What are the Results?
Better Communication - We stay in better contact with friends, family, and supporters.
Better Prayer Support - Folks know what is going on. They pray much more specifically because of knowing what is "going on."
Better Support - Several mission committees follow our blog on a regular basis. This definitely keeps the support account healthy.
Better Mobilization - We have had several comments that the blog helps challenge and keep folks involved with missions.
If you are a regular reader, leave a comment to let me know if I am meeting my "goals" and keeping to my "principles". Thanks.
My family and I so, so, so much enjoy your "blog" -- please keep it going. I used you -- rather your photo with the rhinos -- as a classroom illustration with first graders (who may never move 10 miles from their current home in their lifetimes) last week. They thought it "way cool" to see Marti in a field of rhinos!!! Thanks for letting us share your journey.
Posted by: Teresa | March 13, 2005 at 07:25 AM
Excellent post. I enjoy your blog greatly. I believe it is one of the best missionary blogs out there. I know I have said it before, but I really don't know why more missionaries have not taken advantage of the tremendous medium of blogging.
Posted by: Andrew | March 15, 2005 at 04:08 PM
Keep it up. You are challenging us in a great way.
Posted by: Andy | March 16, 2005 at 07:16 PM