Hargove’s First Post–REVISED

This site is at the moment little more than a concept, a beginning, not yet even qualifying as a work in progress.   The vision is of an on line forum where people of good will engage is civil discourse on ideas and share the results of those human endeavors that enrich, edify, and enhance the human spirit: Art, Music, Science, and Letters.

The scope of Letters encompasses virtually all aspects of our shared existence, including the third rails of politics and religion.  Discourse will, however, be strictly bounded by the extent to which contributions they further the vision of civil public discourse bounded by the following four principles:

Is its ultimate purpose of the writer the greater good of the reader or readers as individuals or communities of interest and the community of humankind?

Is it true?   For works of non-fiction are the facts presented true?  For fiction and poetry do the words, metaphors, and emotional content have integrity and authenticity?  Does the spirit of the work as a whole reflect the positive values of wisdom and compassionate love for others and for the common good.

Is it kind?   Kindness does not preclude critical commentary if it conforms to the first two principles.  Is  it constructive constructive and worded in such a way as to inform and encourage others to consider the views of others thoughtfully.

Finally, does the work  express a spirit of humility?  Does it reflect an open-minded acceptance of the inherent limitations of words and  human understanding and an honest and open-mindedness and tolerance for the views and opinions of others.

This First Post (unrevised) was published on Published Aug 17, 2017.   In it I observed that  these criteria made this something of a Diogenical quest, but that hope springs eternal.   In the intervening years, life on life’s terms has interfered in my good intentions and the road to hell has another express lane now.

Still I’m hopeful. Even in this post-Truth era people are beginning to “speak truth” — If only quietly, but with greater frequency and conviction.

The circles in which this are multiplying in number and growing in size.

1 thought on “Hargove’s First Post–REVISED”

  1. That is a really good tip especially to those new to the blogosphere. Short but very accurate information… Thanks for sharing this one. A must read article!

    A quick response, from Hargrove. Doing it as an edit,

    Thanks, Kai:

    The basic points aren’t original. They’re an adaptation of advice I heard for deciding whether or not to speak, almost 40 years ago. They apply to any form of verbal communication, written or “spoken”, through whatever medium. I appreciate the feedback. I took a look at the URL you provided. I can see why the first post might have appealed to you. I appreciate that it, like this one, is a work in progress, but I sense it’s motivated by the same spirit. It’s not easy to articulate, but it speaks pretty clearly when you make the effort.

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