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I remember a number of years ago I became an avid viewer of a couple of TV police dramas, notably the Law & Order shows - SVU and CI. These were (initially) more intellectual than many of the shows had been up to that point and I enjoyed trying to figure out the mysteries. But I also noticed that the content became increasingly graphic and depraved, and I finally decided to take a break from it. And I've never looked back. I noticed that as I have eliminated all such television shows I have decreased the amount of 'dark tone' that is in my mind.

Now, a couple of days ago the company which provides my internet access had a problem (stemming from a recent storm) which knocked out service in our area for a couple of days. When this happens you begin to realize how much time is spent running to and from the computer - either for work or for entertainment - and how much one waits for emails and online news and blogs. Notice that I speak of how much time and energy is given rather than how much time and energy one needs to be online.

My point with these two aspects of my life is that the blogosphere has become increasingly distracting for those things which are truly important to me. For the most part, there is a negativity and cynicism among people who blog frequently (even among bibliobloggers). Further, there is an air of self-significance which has taken a simple means of communicating thoughts and making them into pseudo-scholarly treatise. But in reality the level of discourse which occurs on these boards are obnoxious, rude, and dismissive. Cleverness is prized over thoughtfulness; shock value over sentiment; criticism over edification.

And these past few days have taught me to throw out the list which I typically follow. Only three or four remain - those who can get it right, and who seek to advance the discourse of the kingdom over their own agendas - and little will be added. There is too much good work to be done that it is fruitless to be caught up in this mire. I say this without disrespect or disregard to the many individuals who blog, and the very very few who will ever read these words.

I remember in a conversation with The Bishop that he disregards blogs (as he points out in his latest book), because it is an unmonitored and unchecked void. Now that I have broken away from it, I have to agree. But blog on, those who choose to blog. I will as well. But I will continue to realize my grand insignificance in the universe, both online and off. As for any mountains which will or will not be moved by the faith investigated here, that is for infinite grace to decide.