...talking with Shane continued...

Remember that "going below the line" is to look beneath the deed to the need, to see the underlying interests, values, needs, etc. that drive the behavior. Our decision and positions are our choices. The things hidden below the line are what motivates us to make the choices. If I go below the line for minute about myself, I have to consider what were my interests in taking the microphone.

Did I want to be known by others, so by taking a chance to speak be recognized? No, I could have sat quietly and let the moments to interact pass.

So, what drove me to make the decision to speak up? I was sincere in appreciating how Shane's writing had stirred a part of me that had grown dull and distant. My youthful passion for justice and radical discipleship as a follower of Christ had faded over the years. So, I was motivated to give him a thank you and encouragement to know that he was impacted more than just this generation.

Ok, that makes sense, but what about the second part where you asked for him to sign his book for your daughter? That was a inner hope to give my daughter a special surprise gift. She was very excited about Shane and the movement he represents. She would have been there to see him if she was able. So the request for a note to her in his second book was out of love for her.

Sounds pretty unselfish so far, so none of the talk with Shane was self-centered? Actually, it was. Being honest to myself and anyone else who stumbles across this blog writing there is always some self interest in all our actions. I was glad to have a chance to see a change maker like Shane up close and to shake his hand.

Ok, that was a start. I want to continue to look at below the line issues in my and other people's positions. What about it? Is it easy for you to disclose your "below the line" issues to yourself and others? Let's talk about it.

My interests in talking with Shane Claiborne

Interests are below the line. They can't be compromised on. They are your values, principles, motives, feelings, relationships, ego, saving face, or fair treatment. What is above the line? The issues we grapple with and the positions we take on those issues.

So, here is an example I want to work through with the "Go Below the Line" paradigm. The question remains, what are my interests below the line?

-- I went to the Shane Claiborne presentation at Lipscomb on Monday night. After speaking he offered a time for Q & A. I was seating close to the front and ended up able to get a microphone to address him. I chose to speak. I decided to thank him for inspiring this generation of people AND the generations before them. I said that he had lit fires and fanned flames in my children, their friends and many in this generation. Also, he had helped me and many of the previous generation awaken from our slumber as many of us have lost our way to go the way of Jesus. Then I asked him two questions; 1. What did he have to say to parents, 2. Would he put a note in his book Jesus for President for one of my daughters. (to be continued)...