Michael's Journal.
This journal is now password-protected.
The decision to lock up my journal wasn't easy. There's just something about it being password-protected that I don't particularly like. But it was something that I eventually had to do, for two primary reasons.
First off, to keep security. I have learned that it is not safe to allow your deepest concerns to be visible to anyone and everyone. As the Bible says, “Let your acquaintances be many, but one in a thousand your confidant.” (Sir. 6:6) Moreover, “A shrewd man conceals his knowledge, but the hearts of foola gush forth folly.” (Prv. 12:23) It is good to hold friends in confidence, because “for lack of guidance a people falls; security lies in man counselors.” (Prv. 11:14)
Second, to avoid gossiping. By complaining about events or people, I could easily start a rumor or damage someone's reputation unfairly. Therefore, it is best to keep my complaints among a select few who understand me and the background of events, and who will surely not spread rumors or use these things as ammunition. If I allow my thoughts to become gossip, I am more guilty than those who have offended me, because, “cursed be gossip and the double-tongued, for they destroy the people of many.” (Sir. 28:13)
Thankfully this protection of my journal allows me to speak freely without worrying what others think, allowing the journal to fulfill its basic purposes of helping me to remember and accommodate the events of life.
If you want the password to my journal, contact me and I will tell you it if I consider you a close enough friend. Many people, especially people from the university, will not receive the password unless they ask, because part of what qualifies a close friend to me is having a vivid interest in my life.
~Michael
