I thought I’d take a moment to address a comment made by a recent contributor regarding the possibility of my editing a submission. The writer ended his story with some opinions and encouragement to readers, but noted in his introduction that I could delete that part if I disagreed with any of it. As it happened, I agreed perfectly, but I think I should say that even if I hadn’t, I would not have deleted anything.
This blog is not about me and my opinions. It’s about everyone, all of you who read and submit. I’m not trying to push any agenda here, just to provide a space where everyone can share their story and get whatever they might get out of reading the stories of others. If I happen to get a story that expresses an opinion I disagree with, I would never censor it in any way, and I would not let that part of it stop me from posting it. You each have the right to share your story in the way that you want to, and it would be contrary to my purpose here to interfere with that.
So, it may come about through this openness that conflicting views are expressed here, but that will happen in any open forum, and it is not a bad thing. That is how discussion and debate get started, with the free exchange of ideas. If there is any disagreement, feel free to express it by email or by leaving comments, and as long as debate remains respectful, I honestly have no objection. In fact, there may even be cause to welcome debate if it results in further exploration of important issues or greater support for those of us readers and contributors that need it.
I just thought I should assure you all that I would never edit your submissions for content in that way. I promise, the most I’ll do is correct typos and punctuation errors so that we can understand each other better. That’s all.
I hope concern about censorship of any kind hasn’t deterred anyone from contributing, but if it has, rest assured that the integrity of your story is safe and that all of your opinions are valued.
Thank you.
