I live in the bible belt (a third world country when it comes to theology).  I feel pretty alone.  I don’t really have anyone to discuss this stuff with.  My wife has tried to read a few books, but she just doesn’t have the desire to talk theology for more than 5 minutes. I go to church or small home groups and just keep my mouth shut becasue I don’t agree with much that is said.  I found a great deal of comfort in Brian Mclaren’s book a generous orthodoxy because it helped me realize that I don’t need to try and convert all my fundamentalist friends into intelligent "truth seekers".  They have to deal with how their theology impacts their ability to love and be loved.  I have my own issues, so I don’t try to "convert" them or convict them.  That is not my responsibility.

I give books to all my friends hoping to generate discussion, but nobody that I know reads anything longer than a cartoon strip.  They won’t do it.  I have yet to find one person in my church or circle of friends that will get through a single theological book that is outside the "norm" for southern conservative fundamentalists.