The word accountability comes from the latin word “accomptare“. Which means “To account“.
I love social networking. I have found it very easy to connect and relate to people in the online world. Partly because all we have is the information that’s written or given. It’s easier and simpler to get to know people virtually than in real life. I also think we tend to focus ourselves on people with similar thoughts, interest or ideas. So, relating is easier.
The online world gives all of us a chance to say our peace, whether it’s read or not. We speak honestly and openly. We may even say things online, that we would never say in person. Why? Do we feel safe? Do we feel like others are doing it, so it’s ok?
Or do we just feel like no one will ever hold us accountable to what we are feeling or doing?
This though has been running through my head lately. I want a life that is held accountable. I know God will hold me accountable to all I’ve said and done. But, I also desire that real, genuine accountability that only a face to face involved person can give.
So, am I saying that I cannot be held accountable online? My answer would be yes.
Now let me say this. Accountability to me is way more than asking a couple of questions. “Did you look at porn today?”. “Are you speaking nicely to your wife?”. This is not accountability. And, yet, I see this often, as the accepted form of accountability.
-Accountability is knowing the person you are accountable to. Their weaknesses, their strengths.
-Accountability is not only asking the questions, but checking in on the answers. It’s easy for me to tell you whatever you want to hear, but if you see me living my life or acting out in a way that is opposed to what I am telling you, then I am held accountable.
-Accountability is direct involvement, in real life, with someone you trust or who trusts you. To say the hard things. To point out the successes and failures.
So, here is why I believe accountability needs to take place in person and not online. Online, I can hide. I can fake. I can choose to allow you to see or hear what my life is about. In essence, it is my life, but with a lot of pieces of the puzzle missing. Now, maybe this is just me, but I believe most people who enjoy networking online, realize that their life is lived in person and the online world is only an additional expression of what their life is.
So, now that I’ve said that. I do believe, that once a real life relationship is formed, that an online setup can continue or be a part of the accountability process. But, it will never take the place of me sitting in your living room or in your office and seeing you live the life you say you are living.
Now, I realize, that I have just laidoout some of the thoughts I have on accountability and that you may have many more.
So, what say you? Can online accountability work?
