Thursday, March 1, 2012

Still Alive - On Hiatus

I'm still here, but been taking sort of a hiatus this week from the BI as you've probably noticed. We're building a back porch here on the homestead and that's been taking up a lot of my time.

I'm also reevaluating the format of the BI this week, pondering over in my head what I want to do with this space and if my message is truly what God intends for this internet ministry.

I have little to no interest in current events and politics. I'm not a survivalist nor am I a "prepper" in the usual sense. My family is well on the way to exiting the consumer society. Alarmist news items really don't intrigue me that much. If you want to hear what's wrong with the world, well, there's a thousand other websites that can do that much better. Radio shows and television too.

As I've talked more and more about religion and the purpose for why we do these things, my readership has dropped off considerably. A corresponding drop in revenue has followed and now the BI is no longer self-sustaining. I considered this a sign from the start that God would either let this effort bear fruit or it would die on the vine. Since it is dying on the vine, I suspect I should take a change in direction.

So I'm considering in using this space for articles, both on theological topics, as best as my mind and poor scholarship may deliver, and also on the more practical aspects of Christian homesteading. It would mean less frequent posting, but also more real substance.

Please let me know what you think. I'm here for you and for whomever God may lead in my direction.

11 comments:

HermitJim said...

Just a suggestion, but I would follow the direction that feels best for you. The readership will come later.

Personally, I feel that we should use whatever tools God as made available for us. He will let you know if He thinks you are headed in the wrong direction!

That, of course, is just my opinion!

OD from HT said...

I find that the part of your posts that "feed me" most are the 4-5 paragraphs you write first. I scan the "news" but it is no longer the reason I stop by the BI each day.

Many other blogers are long winded and full of over research facts. I much prefer the sit down sip a cup of tea and the we'll chat for a few minutes style you use. I find my mind re-freshed and ready to ponder the ideas you put forth.

I have enjoyed my "tea breaks" with you, but I understand your need to step back and give more attention to your "real" life and less attention to you "online life". What topic you choose to write about is between you and God...just follow your heart and He will tell you what needs to be heard that day.

Ernest said...

Thanks for your thoughts. I like the little paragraphs I write first too and the rest has become more or less a drudgery. If I could just throw out some little thoughts here and there I think we could discuss it would probably be a more inspirational and God-driven engine.

Of course there are occasional topics that I find out there, from news to discussion points on other forums, and I'll probably bring them here.

I try to refrain from senseless prattle and I think sitting and letting thoughts gel a little more is a good way to do that.

10kids said...

I read you daily, have since the beginning. I would like to see Christian Homesteading as the main theme, and an occasional news item, if the Lord moves you. I miss Forerunner's wife's blog and pictures terribly...it gave me ideas, encouragement and a knowing that there are others out there who are traveling our path. God bless you Ernie and family for your desire and actions to follow the Lord.

Anonymous said...

Ernie, I fully understand where you are right now. There was a time that I almost shut down my Christian Homesteaders forum, but God stayed my hand. My only advice, is to go wherever God leads you. He'll send those who are suppose to read what you share. The ones who are only looking at the doom and gloom aspect may leave, but those who know our only REAL hope is through God will come. My prayers are with you as you seek His direction.

Xa Lynn said...

I would like to read more theological topics, since I'm having rather a crisis of faith. And I'd like the homesteading notes to continue, too, since my family has just moved to an old farmhouse on 46 acres and we are in for a lot of work - it's good to hear what others are doing in similar situations.

XaLynn

Dyson said...

Ernie,

I too like those opening paragraphs, sometimes the preamble is all I need...

I still want to know more about your 'stead too as I just bought my place and I'm starting from scratch...

I want to concentrate on the positives... Not to completely forget the zombies but focus on the good things building a web of friends who are believers and not pyscho-vampires, i you understand what I mean...

smallhomestead said...

Just go where god leads you. But for me I to like the beginning that you write the news at the bottom is eye opening at times. I also would like to hear more of what you are doing I only have 1 acre but it motivates me to try different things around here

Patrice said...

I say to follow what God is telling you to do. I enjoy reading whatever you post and am in the group of being prepared for whatever comes my way.

Unknown said...

Mixed feelings, I love the opening paragraphs (usually) but I also like to skim "the mess of the day" that the world is in. I know that I can come here and see what is happening without having to go to ump-teen different sites. I don't need to be told what to think and you never insult me by telling me, so I would respect you in the same way, do what you must do and where God leads you.

Walt N Carol said...

I really wasn't sure if I should post my thoughts here or not. I told my DH that you were taking a different path as well.

You see, I'm not a Christian. That being said, I do appreciate the things that you write/think/say. It gives me thoughts to ponder. I really am not sure how to say this Ernie, but you make me wonder sometimes if I just don't realize what (who?) it is that motivates me to attempt the things I do.

I sent you a PM of encouragment about a year and a half ago on the forums and I guess this is my "PM" here.

I really admire your style. I'm continually amazed when I read your posts because I think along the same lines as you do, for the most part! Keep up the great job.

cnichols (now csohn!)