The Body is bleeding. We've utterly failed as a body of believers. How can we enjoy fellowship with one another if we only open up to a small, select few? Why can we, sharing the strongest bond (namely, a relationship with God), not be free and open with each other? Why do we allow believers to fall because of our reluctance to face reality or haste to remain comfortable? How can we be free from slavery to sin but remain bound behind facades? Why do we avoid conversation and understanding with one word?

"How are you doing?"

"Good."

I don't hold answers, though I may have suggestions. Solutions are borne of God. We need to start confessing sins to brethren and sistren and holding each other accountable. We need to begin caring about each other's lives. We need to help others in need. We need to hold ourselves equal to others, not judging, but correcting in love; not being offended, but receiving correction.

We need to love each other like we love ourselves (or, in the case of lack of self-love, as God loves us).

I seek the praise of men instead of the praise of God.

For the small few who read this, I've started a photo album of (artistic) photos I've started taking. I love photography; however, when I am brutally honest with myself and stand void of pretense I realize that I started that album to once again feed my pride: to gain compliments (though my non-flesh also enjoys positive criticism) and bolster myself in the eyes of others. I want to be the best photographer there is. Notice I didn't say "the best photographer I can be." That's where I went wrong: read my art manifesto (some entries back). I've violated virtually every principle I set forth there when I create art out of selfish ambition and pride. It's fruitless. God change my motives, that I may create art to document Your beauty and show the amazing wonders of Your creation to others, that all may point to You.

Words and pictures copyright slav2emoshns