Some Comments on Comments

It's probably helpful every now and then to make some comments about blog comments.

1. I'm grateful for most of the comments. They are often encouraging and edifying. I learn new things. Sometimes I laugh. Thanks.

2. I do not have time to read the comments very carefully. I try to at least skim the comments that show up on the first day. After that, sometimes I go through them and sometimes I don't. I'm sorry if you ask thoughtful questions and I'm unable to respond. I can't answer every email or every blog comment.

3. I don't usually delete comments, but sometimes I do. Here's why:

a) They are too long. A comment should be a comment not a dissertation. If it looks like a separate blog post in the comments section, it could get the axe.

b) The comment includes a lot of links. On occasion a link is appropriate, but if you start referencing ten other blogs (especially your own!) I'm probably going to hit "trash." Sorry, but again, comments should be comments, not advertisements.

c) The comment doesn't make sense or is off the subject. No, we probably don't want to check out that link that has nothing to do with the post. And we don't need to hear about the latest word study in Syriac. Not trying to be mean, just sayin.

d) The comment is strident or cruel.

e) The comment thread has been hijacked. Once ObscureLatinPhraseBlogger and MilitantSoundingThrowDownBoy use the blog as their personal theological litter box it's time to shut er down.

4.  Let me repeat, I'm thankful for the vast majority of comments I come across on the blog. I'm grateful for this technology and the chance to write and serve the Lord.