Opinionated vs. Defensiveness

I have thought recently of what I am good at. Being let go from your job can do that to you. I have noticed throughout my life being good at giving a good defense. Here are some examples:

• Soccer- I played fullback, sometimes halfback-never forward, unless our team was winning by a lot.
• In Jr/Sr High- I often wrote about controversial things and tried to give reasons for why I thought that way. (Of course, I look back and see that some of my arguments were rather shallow- but I believe the mind is something to be developed and changed when the reasons are good enough.
• Music-I play bass and like to sing backup versus being the center of things.
• Writing- I very often try to give reasons for my belief that Christianity is not just a few good opiate, but rather it is actually true. Even when I emote, I like to actually have a purpose.

I am sure there are other examples, but I thought it was interesting that the thing I am good at is being defensive-That has so many possible meanings... :-)

I think having an opinion is ok, being opinionated is sometimes ok, but I think it is important to not just give your opinion, but give folks reasons why they should take you seriously. And if you give your opinion, don't be afraid of criticism. If your view is true (and we all think we are right- admit it), it will stand up.

And just as important- Don't be afraid to change your mind. Be intellectually honoest enough to tell someone they made a good point or if the reasons are good enough-change your mind, readjust your view. This is a hard one, especially since we all think we are right. Be willing to say, "I may be wrong on this". And admit when you are. Have I said this part was hard?

In addition, be careful not to be so open to changing your mind that you simply blow back and forth with whomever is talking. (He's right, no, you're right...no, wait, who's right).

Don't just be opinionated just to throw out your view; Be defensive, without adding offense. Also, I was reminded that when we think we are right or are, in fact, right, it is important to be a bit humble about it. "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud." 1 Cor. 13:4

Derrick