I've had it made rather clear to me here that my posting here isn't wanted, so I'll be taking off.
Honestly, it's disappointing.
I've had some fairly painful things happen recently (some to me, but more to people I cared about) and it's left me angry, bitter and in pain. I posted angrily here out of those feelings, and was met with surprising results.
Rather than people being compassionate or trying to see what was behind the scenes, instead people for the most part gave the anger right back. I even got a private message from someone slamming me for the stuff I posted. No hint of "I'll pray for you". Just "you're a jerk". (Don't worry, I'm not naming names)
I've often heard it said that the church shoots it's wounded. Sadly, if this forum is any indication, that's true. I pity anyone who comes needing a little compassion, cause it isn't to be found.
Now, a little prediction.
The people who have responded badly will justify it by telling themselves and others that I was just a troublemaker who only came here to make problems. That isn't so, and someday when all is revealed you'll find that out. If it helps you to feel that way now though, go ahead. I guess it's easier than admitting you might have been wrong (something I've been forced to do on a regular basis in my life).
To the folks who have been compassionate, it wasn't unnoticed. I was feeling ready to drop the anger and dialogue on a better level, but not now. Prayers are appreciated because a lot of things are ongoing. There is always a remnant amongst the congregation that's true, and you are that remnant. To you, my kindest regards, and I hope you read that before this post is deleted (as I'm sure it will be).
To the rest, you should be ashamed. Jesus would never have tossed someone aside so easily. I sincerely hope that the churches you attend are more welcoming of people who need help, because sometimes they lash out at the ones trying to assist them. If that's something you aren't prepared for, then stand back and let someone else reach out.
The world can be a welcoming and compassionate place to someone who's been hurt by the church. Sad that the reverse isn't always true.
For what it's worth, I'll pray for you, and yes, I mean that.
Honestly, it's disappointing.
I've had some fairly painful things happen recently (some to me, but more to people I cared about) and it's left me angry, bitter and in pain. I posted angrily here out of those feelings, and was met with surprising results.
Rather than people being compassionate or trying to see what was behind the scenes, instead people for the most part gave the anger right back. I even got a private message from someone slamming me for the stuff I posted. No hint of "I'll pray for you". Just "you're a jerk". (Don't worry, I'm not naming names)
I've often heard it said that the church shoots it's wounded. Sadly, if this forum is any indication, that's true. I pity anyone who comes needing a little compassion, cause it isn't to be found.
Now, a little prediction.
The people who have responded badly will justify it by telling themselves and others that I was just a troublemaker who only came here to make problems. That isn't so, and someday when all is revealed you'll find that out. If it helps you to feel that way now though, go ahead. I guess it's easier than admitting you might have been wrong (something I've been forced to do on a regular basis in my life).
To the folks who have been compassionate, it wasn't unnoticed. I was feeling ready to drop the anger and dialogue on a better level, but not now. Prayers are appreciated because a lot of things are ongoing. There is always a remnant amongst the congregation that's true, and you are that remnant. To you, my kindest regards, and I hope you read that before this post is deleted (as I'm sure it will be).
To the rest, you should be ashamed. Jesus would never have tossed someone aside so easily. I sincerely hope that the churches you attend are more welcoming of people who need help, because sometimes they lash out at the ones trying to assist them. If that's something you aren't prepared for, then stand back and let someone else reach out.
The world can be a welcoming and compassionate place to someone who's been hurt by the church. Sad that the reverse isn't always true.
For what it's worth, I'll pray for you, and yes, I mean that.
I only hope you, in the long run, have learned a positive lesson or two while you were hear. I will pray God has more of an impact on you and your anger toward Him and others who love Him.
