Thing 11

I feel so connected now! Seriously! I spent a good hour or so searching through the other blogs listed at "23 Things" and I really feel like I have come to know my colleagues! 


In one of our previous 'Things' where we watched a video about blogs, it mentioned how bloggers rely heavily on the comments made on their posts. It really struck me. I have been a Reader of Blogs for a long time and follow a number of personal and professional blogs. But, at that point, I rarely ever commented. Partly, it's because I read the blogs through Google Reader, so I am not on their individual site with the COMMENT button right there, alluring me. But, also, because I didn't think my comments would ever matter to another person. But, that video we watched got me thinking and I have begun commenting way more than I ever did before. If a blog makes me think of something, I make sure to go and comment. It's just the right thing to do! 


It also helps that I now have a blog (or 2!) and I know how very excited I get to read someone else's comment on my content. It's like getting mail or presents! I LOVE it! And, knowing that, I want to give other people that same kind of joy. 


When others comment on my blog, it feels good to know that I have been heard, and that what I said means something to someone else--good or bad. It is the 'conversation' of online communities...it is a necessary component, most definitely! 


When I am commenting on someone else's blog, I like to subscribe to the feed so I can see what others also have to say. And I like when the blogger responds back to those of us who have commented. Sometimes that can be difficult, but I do appreciate it when it happens. 


Sometimes, the things we do online can make us feel isolated. And yes, blogging can make increase vulnerability. But, with online communities, communication is key. Connecting to others out there has really been beneficial.