Objectivity is essential...

Check out the Presentation Zen and the 13th Dec post. Garr Reynolds discusses an idea raised by Harold Pinter and then brings out some interesting points:

I found Pinter's thoughts on writing political theatre interesting. With regards to political theatre, Pinter says,

"Sermonising has to be avoided at all cost. Objectivity is essential. The characters must be allowed to breathe their own air. The author cannot confine and constrict them to satisfy his own taste or disposition or prejudice. He must be prepared to approach them from a variety of angles, from a full and uninhibited range of perspectives, take them by surprise, perhaps, occasionally, but nevertheless give them the freedom to go which way they will."

Again, Pinter is talking about writing good political theatre, of course. Still, he is talking about communication of ideas and I think we can apply a bit of his thinking to our own presentation approach. For example, is this (below) not good advice for many of us when presenting?

1) Avoid sermonizing
2) Be as objective as possible
3) Do not constrict or confine your audience, but engage them
4) Approach your topic and your engagement with the audience from a variety of angles. Surprise them. Allow them the opportunity to challenge, clarify, and offer up other opinions.

Question is... How can I follow Garr's advice when I am communicating at church? How can I avoid sermonizing when I am presenting the sermon? I appreciate objectivity may be essential, but how can I remain objective when, at times, my message is subjective? Engaging the congregation depends on talent and wit... but taking that to the next level and Seeking/embracing alternate opinions & debate is difficult.

Interesting... Check it out...