OK! Let me apologize by starting this off with a negative topic, but I'm very uncomfortable adding my two cents worth to some of the reglgious topics for the following reason: I'm 62 years old and an ultra conservative. Most of you are much younger and probably less conservative. Up until now, if a post really entices me, I will let loose with all my conservatism; however, I'm very concerned that my views may hurt others feelings, or worse yet, damage someone's spirituality.

The internet and public forums are so impersonal because you can't read voice inflections into written words and derive the wrtiers true intent. On the other hand, I am not good in face to face discussions because I need to "engage brain before putting mouth in gear."

Therefore, I'm throwing out this idea: Let's post a list of "discussion" topics and then choose one or two to be orally addressed (as in debate) for a limited (strictly limited) time frame before (or after) each trail ride. That way everyone will have time to research the subject and may (or may not) add his/her comments at the open discussion if he/she sees fit.

I am not suggesting that we eliminate discussions on the forum, but I will probably not take part unless someone really says something unBiblical.

Great idea, Ed! That's definitely a better idea than trying to put together a structured bible study after a run!

But I DO have to say that discussions on here are QUITE welcome and I have yet to see anything that would hurt someone's feelings in any of the conversations that have come up. We voice our opinions and post things that may back our opinions up.

We're all believers and followers of Christ....discussions being "shut down" or "discouraged" is why we were unhappy somewhere else. No one is here to put someone else down or make someone else feel stupid or wrong. I hope no one has ever come off that way or left here feeling that they were.

We all want to see eachother choosing the right paths. We want to help eachother know Christ. A discussion about tattoos or what to wear to church aren't exactly "feeling hurt" conversations. Which is why they're not bad topics. Now...on the other hand, we should avoid other ones in an open forum, such as abortion and such. THAT would be one for a face to face discussion.

Sorry guys.. I tried to shorten it as much as possible before I posted...

I for one (being one of those young types) have always thought you (Ed) have handled your discussions graciously. If one of the young guns gets snappy because they are reacting to something you've said I think the fault lies with them (unless you actually say something out of line which I have not experienced).

I am learning more and more that respect and compassion for people in general and being gracious is always necessary (even with "old conservative" guys who happen to disagree with me...haha or those young 'liberal' whipernsappers) and especially critical when dealing with other believers. However we, as Christians, are allowed to disagree, we have to realize that an online forum is not the ideal place, as Ed mentioned. to share on topics that may really hit home for some people but staying away from those topics would be much worse (as Pattey said and I agree). This forum gives me an opportunity to discuss and listen to reactions from people outside my own local Church, and importantly outside of my 'denomination', and I would hate for anyone to not share their thoughts because they were afraid of offending someone (just remember share lovingly).

A strong disagreement is no place for anger but for patience and understanding. Why are we here? Why do we discuss sometimes personal or emotional topics? It is to gain insight and share beliefs. So far I have experienced nothing but Christian discussion out of love and conviction and I think it has been a healthy forum for discussion.

The "debate" or discussion in person idea I think is a great one. I know (and I wouldn't normally admit to this) but my tendency is to try to win a discussion. I think everyone must surrender any ideas of attempting to come out on top and lets just focus on talking through the topic and explaining why we believe what we believe. Gracious, patient and loving the way Christ would have.

Well said by Tim and Ken...

...I always want to know other people's opinions. ESPECIALLY Ed's!!! Really, though, I DO listen to the "old wise ones" because sometimes within the church, there's a liberal stance on some things. I like the conservative.




























But I'm still not giving in on the tattoo thing!

Love you guys!

please dont stop posting safari that is how we learn from other peoples views