How to Not Sound Like a Jerk

I originally published the following on Tuesday, August 29, 2006 on a blog that has since been discontinued. It bears repeating, so I am reposting it as of Sunday, March 4, 2012 -- under its original date and time stamp.

A good friend of mine (whom I shall not out in this post) recently brought up one of the problems of keeping a blog -- in particular, a blog like this one that features topical opinions and color commentary in addition to more private musings. The problem: how not to sound like an arrogant, sanctimonious jerk. Given that I sometimes have trouble keeping my (big) mouth closed, it is highly likely that some readers will think that I am just such a being from time to time. So I thought I’d just ’fess up now to clear the air.

When I read my own writing, I sometimes think that I sound like an arrogant sanctimonious jerk.

I have decided not to let it bother me. I pray your forgiveness and compassion on this point.

I have two purposes in writing all of this crap schlock material:

1. Although They don't tend to Ask Me, by publishing I can nevertheless remove all excuses They might have for not following my advice.
2. The enjoyment and practice of writing itself. [This latter was not a complete sentence, and should therefore not have ended in a period. See how much work I need?]

For better or for worse, speaking circumspectly and withholding my opinions do not appear on the above list. Anyone who reads one of my posts should consider himself or herself to have asked my frank opinion on that subject. The subject is called out at the beginning of each, so everyone has fair warning.

Thank you for your time. You may now return to your regularly scheduled activities.