This friendly advice is brought to you as a byproduct of my personal experience with online communication, discussing religion, over the past four years. My earliest experience came in forums and on various blogs, as a commenter. My sincere desire has always been to provide credible information about the Mormon Church. I've always felt that I had good intentions. And I know that you do, too.
It was from these early experiences that sprung my desire to never want to debate or defend Mormonism. Believe me, I tried. At times I actually thought I did a pretty good job. And maybe I did? But in hindsight I learned that those who want to debate Mormon beliefs, are generally not the ones really interested in what I have to teach. In fact, the opposite is true... rather it is usually their hope to correct what they believe are my misguided beliefs.
Trust me -- when you take a non-defensive approach while sharing your beliefs with others, who may have very strong opinions, even oppositional to your beliefs, it most always will have a positive result. And that's the most important thing to always remember -- how people feel when they've interacted with a member of the LDS Church.
Please keep in mind that when we use Social Media to share the gospel online, we are broadcasting to a large audience. Most often you will have a positive response. However, not everyone that sees your message will necessarily receive it as intended. When this happens, from my experience, you have only a few basic options to ensure that your message continues to be perceived as designed.
These suggestions are also general guidelines for interacting with others, online.
It was from these early experiences that sprung my desire to never want to debate or defend Mormonism. Believe me, I tried. At times I actually thought I did a pretty good job. And maybe I did? But in hindsight I learned that those who want to debate Mormon beliefs, are generally not the ones really interested in what I have to teach. In fact, the opposite is true... rather it is usually their hope to correct what they believe are my misguided beliefs.
Trust me -- when you take a non-defensive approach while sharing your beliefs with others, who may have very strong opinions, even oppositional to your beliefs, it most always will have a positive result. And that's the most important thing to always remember -- how people feel when they've interacted with a member of the LDS Church.
Please keep in mind that when we use Social Media to share the gospel online, we are broadcasting to a large audience. Most often you will have a positive response. However, not everyone that sees your message will necessarily receive it as intended. When this happens, from my experience, you have only a few basic options to ensure that your message continues to be perceived as designed.
These suggestions are also general guidelines for interacting with others, online.
You can completely ignore the response -- which I don't generally recommend. Most often when taking this approach, particularly when a very negative comment has been made, debate often ensues with others commenting who feel the need to come to the rescue -- and it might not be yours!
Correct any misinformation presented -- keep it very brief and factual, and include a link to a credible resource. With this non-defensive approach it is very likely that your intent will be understood by others, with no further interruptions.
Politely acknowledge differences -- often times our friends require validation that their opinions and differences are respected -- and they should be. It really can be this simple.
In conversation DO use terms such as "in my opinion", "I feel", "I believe" and avoid absolutes such as "I know". Always leave room for another person's perspective, regardless of how it differs from your own. Who knows, you might learn something?
Don't be afraid to engage -- whenever someone responds to something you share, acknowledge them. This sends the message that you are open for discussion.
Never hesitate to apologize if you might have unintentionally offended someone.
If you're new to having online conversations about Mormonism, with non-members, I can assure you that you are in for a treat! Yes there will be the occasional negative response, but in general you will find that the majority of people appreciate your willingness to share your beliefs.
We can also help each other when we see another member reach out and share something about our faith, online. Avoid being that "commenter" who feels the need to come to the rescue of another member and defend. Remember, we don't need to defend or debate -- or even state our position. If anything, perhaps you could provide some kind words to ensure a positive experience for others commenting -- who may not understand or agree with what has been presented.
I'm sure that others reading this post have had similar experiences. I'd love to hear how you've taken a potential negative experience when sharing the gospel online, and made it a positive?
tDMg
Kathryn
Mormons and Social Media - Getting Started
Mormonism Defined - Why We Believe
Facebook EVENT: Sharing the Gospel Through Social Media
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