Tying Shoes Together in Unity
Dear Brothers,
The Branch has received reports from the field that in certain areas of the country, some of our brothers have adopted a method of shoe tying that is different than the majority of Jehovah's Witnesses. It is known as the "Ian Knot" and we provide the following video link in case you are not familiar with it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OazKbYP7Sd0
Apparently, some brothers eagerly embraced this new method of shoe tying, reasoning that since it only takes one second to tie, that would leave them even more time available to advance Kingdom interests. Sadly, this line of reasoning does not reflect the "wisdom from above" for a number of reasons.
Pride. Ian, the knot's namesake, whoever he may be, could easily succumb to an exaggerated opinion of himself should this knot become widely used among the friends. Would it really be worth putting his spiritual well-being at risk just to save yourself a few seconds each day?
Unity. Although more and more of our brothers have internet access, many do not. How will those who cannot afford access to this video feel when they are not able to master the knot as well as the more affluent members of the congregation?
For the sake of the unity of the worldwide brotherhood as well as the spiritual health of anyone named Ian, it is best if those in positions of oversight strongly discourage its continued use. Should an exemplary brother or sister continue to use the knot after receiving repeated, loving counsel to stop, they would no longer qualify for any privileges of service within the congregation.
Please accept our warm Christian love,
The Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses
p.s. (Your shoe's untied!)
