Written by Karen D. Swim
I don’t know what it is but there is someting in the air. This week many of the issues which I have privately grappled with have found voice in the words of others. I am not sure if is the election season, the world economy or simply the cycle of human nature but many seem to be examining this online world where we spend so much time – our place in it, our relationships with others and our duties at citizens of the net world.
The discussions have been thoughtful and eye-opening. Some have answered questions, others have given rise to additional ones. All, I believe are worthy of sharing with all of you.
Amy Derby wrote a post about online friendships that clearly struck a chord. In her usual forthright, no holds barred style. In her Netiquette Rant she examines the question of online “friendship.” The post and the comments made me understand why I adore Amy and many of the “posse” that offered their thoughts.
I am not a regular reader of Dooce but read two of her posts this week. She wrote a post addressing politics which drew more than 700 responses and a follow-up where comments were understandably closed. The posts and comments remind me of not only our influence on the internet but the ability to be misinterpreted and misunderstood. It is very easy to incite “a mob mentality” whether you are the author or a commenter. Now more than ever, we must be certain that we are willing to stand by what we write even in the face of tremendous pressure.
A post on Daily Writing Tips honestly discussed the dangers of slacking on your writing standards in order to make money. It was a post that challenges us to be responsible with what we write, to adhere to our own standard of quality.
On the internet, everyone talks about numbers – subscriber counts, number of comments, number of followers or friends, number of awards, your rankings, etc. Seth Godin challenges the notion of this hype in his post.
When I first started blogging, I had zero comments. I thought it meant no one was reading. I treated my blog like a fun little experiment. I then started blogging “seriously”and began reading how to do it the right way. Every piece of advice I read emphasized comments. I love comments. I love getting to know readers and hearing their perspectives. Yet, I am also aware that everyone does not have time to read and comment everyday. I have personally felt the guilt when I cannot read and comment as though I’m letting my friends down. I know how it feels to have no one talk to you and I don’t want that for any of the blogs I support. Yet, I am learning to let go of that guilt for myself and for my own readers. Because of my own angst, Vered’s wonderful post about Blog Comments really rang my buzzer.
I had planned this post for the morning and got delayed with last minute client requests. I am very glad that I did because Joanna Young wrote one of her finest pieces that sums up this issue of influence and responsbility quite nicely. Save it for last, it is truly worthy of printing and reading again.
My own conclusion is that we have a responsibility on the web. Whether we are posting a status update or writing for the New York Times. Our influence and responsibility are not determined by the numbers but by that one person who may read our words. To focus on anything else, to chase after a false celebrity is the height of irresponsibility.
What are your thoughts? You can share them here if you like or mull it over on your own. If you want to talk, I’m listening. If you’re reading and don’t have time or a desire to comment, I don’t appreciate you any less.