I continue to be amazed at the wonders of online community. It’s as close to the community I had at college that I’ve experienced since I graduated. I think it primarily has to do with the way you gravitate toward people with similar likes and dislikes. It’s much easier to find and connect with someone that aligns with your thinking online—even if they are 1000 miles away. Carlos (Ragamuffinsoul.com) is even wondering how he might cultivate and use the community over on his blog for some serious good.
I have been thinking about that a lot lately. It has really been frustrating me that I have such a hard time finding people to relate to around me. For example, I’m planning on visiting Rob Bell’s speaking tour next month, and once again I can’t find anyone to join me. Yet I know if everyone on my blogroll lived nearby I’d have a ton of people to hang with. This happens all the time. I know it has a lot to do with where I live. It’s pretty rural and small, but you’d think it would be easier than this.
But last night I got a call from a new online friend, Dave Poland (Overactive Fork). Recently he added me as a friend on Facebook, he bought some of my movies, and earlier this week he emailed me a very detailed and intimate prayer request. And then last night we chatted on the phone about health, family, and religion. It reminded me of the time I got to share some life and Chipolte with Aaron.
This happens all the time online. All week long I have been emailing and instant messaging other people that I met directly through my blog. I think I’m starting to experience some Web 3.0… and I’m liking it.
Filed under: Community, Friends, Internet, Life, Online, Web 3.0
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