On Being an Advocate

I recently received a scathing comment from a Momioso reader.  She indicated that the blog was offensive because I "look down on people who have different experiences."  She said that I should communicate in a kinder fashion so as to inspire - and not offend - people with my advocacy.

Now certainly, I disagree with her assessment of me.  I don't feel that I look down on or judge people.  In fact, I pride myself as being someone that rarely, if ever, says an unkind word about anyone.  I understand that people are doing the best they can (myself included), and that we're here on Earth to learn, share, and raise up our consciousnesses. 

I will, however, readily admit that I judge, and have strong opinions, regarding people's behaviors.  If you read this blog, you know what my opinions are.  I believe attachment parenting is the kindest, most loving way to parent.  I believe natural family living is the kindest, most loving way to treat our Earth.   I believe vegetarianism is the kindest, most conscious way to eat.

And I don't apologize for that.  You see, to me, there's a difference between people and behavior.  I can honor and love a person, and yet not agree with (or in fact diametrically oppose) their behavior. 

I am not writing to be liked or to win popularity contests.  I am writing to express my passion for AP and NFL and moreover, for the rights of children to be raised in compassionate, gentle, loving environments.  I am writing to inform and educate, I am writing to raise awareness.  I am an advocate, plain and simple.

When I started this blog a year ago, I knew full well that some people would get angry with me.  I truly believe that you cannot be a leader, you cannot be an advocate, without pissing people off.  In fact, others' outrage might even be a litmus test of one's advocacy success.  I will always remember something famous self-improvement blogger Steve Pavlina once said (and this is a total paraphrase) - even if you piss someone off, at least you got them to thinking.  And thinking is the first step towards change.

There are many, many voices out there, and there are many, many ears.  My strong voice will only appeal to some people; other, more gentle and restrained voices, will appeal to others (including the above-referenced commenter).  That's the beauty of it all.  I can be me - I can convey the words and passion that God puts inside me, and the people who are meant to read it, and be affected by it, will be.

I am grateful for all of you who have read this blog and who have supported me over the past year.  Thank you so much.