Who's following who?

The other day a friend and I were thinking back to not-too-long-ago when “being followed” was a bad thing. Either it meant someone dangerous is creeping up behind you or maybe your little sister is in your shadow, copying everything you do. Nothing good about being followed. Especially if you’re driving and the one following you has turned on the blue flashing lights.

But now, thanks to Twitter and other social sites, being followed has new meaning. It’s kind of nice to know someone else out there cares that you’re peeling carrots or thinking some profound thought. It feels good to know some little tidbit about someone you wouldn’t otherwise be connected to.

Following and being followed has never been so good. You stay connected. You learn about great (and not so great) causes. You can claim bragging rights if you have more followers than the buddy you’re always competing with.

But there’s following on the one hand (like a distant fan) and really following on the other. I can’t possibly keep up with all of my interests, so I dabble and peek in on some, while I’m totally into following other people, groups, and causes.

So what’s the organizing principle, the “something” that keeps you focused instead of scattered? What’s at your center that helps you feel like it’s possible to be balanced rather than spread so thin? What can you take the time to be truly committed to, and what needs to stay on the sidelines?

If you happen to be thinking that I think I’ve got the answers all packaged up for you nice and neat, you’d be wrong. I’m not that presumptuous. But I do have some really great questions. And a few Bible words to explore. And I know some great people who like to get together and tackle tough questions and offer insights. And we’re getting together tomorrow night (Thurs.) at 7pm at the Crowne Plaza over the theme: "Fan or follower: considering our considerable commitments".

Sorry if you’re long distance or work on Thursday nights. But if you do want to join the discussion, feel free to add your own Q’s and A’s that are on your mind here and now. Or tune in Friday to see what the btw group du jour has wrangled with. I’ll be giving you the highlights here.

Peace,
Kari