The use of the internet exploded largely because it offered a new way to connect with others and create a new form of community. Even though it is a virtual community it offers connection in a disconnected world. People will isolate themselves (physically) to participate in virtual community.
This is a huge reality among moms too. Not that moms isolate themselves from the real world necessarily, but that they have found connection and community online that they otherwise may not have. Moms who are home all day with children, longing for another woman/mom to talk with and relate to.
As I ponder these realities a few things come to mind:
- Is our virtual community just that, 'virtual', or is it real community?
- How long can we survive on the virtual before we long for face to face interaction and community?
- Have we interacted less with real people as a result of our online connections?
- What does virtual community add to ones life?
- Has it become harder to initiate real-life contacts and coffee dates?
- How well do we know our neighbours? Would we feel comfortable borrowing a cup of sugar?
Personally, I value both. At my age, when it is harder to develop friendships, the internet has provided a form of connectedness for me. Like Seinfeld said (Paraphrased) "at our age, everyone already has their friends, their group. They are not looking for anyone new to join them."
Still, I am very aware of the fact that this connectedness is indeed virtual. I make sure that real-life relationships are being created, fostered and given more importance. It is not easy to make new friends and to invite someone new out for coffee but it is required and rewarding. It is also interactive (unlike this blog).
How much of an influence can one have in a virtual community? Can our light shine before people, sitting before a monitor?
Today is the day, bring out the bling!
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