Posted by Doug Showalter on January 14, 1998 at 06:10:22:
In Reply to: messages posted by anon on January 14, 1998 at 00:45:48:
Dear anon,
Yes, within my time constraints I try to answer all posted messages which seem to be seeking a response.
Yes, I'm quite comfortable with the messages being anonymous and would encourage people not to give such precise details about places, situations, etc. that they or their situations might be identifiable to others--if they don't want them to be identifiable.
Frankly, I prefer that people post their concerns on this message board instead of e-mailing them to me, if that is possible. The reason for this is that their concern, my response, and perhaps other people's responses, then become available to help others in similar situations who come to this web site. In this way, more good may be accomplished in the long run.
That is my preference, but I will receive concerns that are e-mailed to me, and I do hold them in confidence. The only time I could imagine breaking that confidentiality, would be--as one might expect--if someone e-mailing me revealed information about themselves or others being harmed in a criminal way. Basically I honor confidentiality, but I also would note that I am not a Roman Catholic Priest who receives confessions and is absolutely bound by them, no matter what.
Perhaps it would be helpful here if I also state that I do not consider myself to be a professional counselor, on this web site or even in my ministerial work in my church.
I am an ordained Protestant minister with many years of parish experience. I have worked with and helped many people at critical times in their lives. I consider myself a "good friend" who can listen, and perhaps offer helpful insights for others to consider, especially in areas which involve religious/spiritual issues. In my view, forgiveness certainly is a religious/spiritual issue.
In my ministry at my church, and here on the web, I readily refer people to professional counseling when it seems indicated. In fact, I am even more inclined to do this on the web, because--even though I value the good this web site can do for others--I still feel there is no substitute for actual face-to-face contact with other human beings, particularly skilled professionals, when situations are serious.
That's a long answer to short questions. I hope it is helpful.
Doug Showalter