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Causes, Values & Evangelism

Last week I walked past Occupy Toronto for maybe the fifteenth time. I have had a lot of thoughts about about the whole thing, and my friend and I got to chatting... One take-away was that methodology really matters to me. I am a big believer in free speech and open dialogue, but I'm also fairly easily put-off peoples' causes or perspectives by how they communicate.
As I've grown more certain of and passionate about the things that I value, I often find myself unsure of how to communicate it all... I want it to be in keeping with my personality, I want it to be authentic, and I want it to be winsome. I do not want to be apathetic, falsely exuberant or in-your-face.

It seems to me that we each have our own style of "evangelizing" the causes we love and beliefs we hold. I used to think my reservedness was due to insecurity, and I often tried to compensate for that. But now I'm at rest and usually don't feel the need to put-on the excitement and boldness I once thought I should show if I truly loved something.

Not that I never get excited.* There are some subjects that I can get quite animated about, given the right circumstances. They include:
1. Art.
Beautiful things make me incredibly happy.
2. Solitude.
Quiet is such an important part of life, but we so often neglect it.
3. Nature.
We need it. I want to value it.
4. Global Perspectives.
The world does not revolve around me.

5. Loyal Friendships.
Life is not meant to be done alone.
6. Purposeful Travel.
Oh, the things I can learn!

7. Jesus.
I keep coming back to him.



*Even though I get excited about these things, I can't see that excitement ever spilling over into domineering or non-listening rants. If it does and I just don't notice, please tell me off. Gently.
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