Hi All,

As late as last night I thought I decided to end my plunge in the world of social networking sites in general, including this one.

There were various reasons for this decision and in all fairness I've been pondering on this since coming onto this one about 5 years ago.

In many respects what I observed then is still what I observe now, that in online conversation it may bring people closer to exploring topics that they may other wise not open up to others; yet I do not think it otherwise has brought us closer to actually being closer as beings on this planet. I say this over and over again.. if someone passed away and you have not spoken in this manner with them for months perhaps years, how would you really know?

~

Sure we can get instant information on anyone, ideas, etc at our finger tips, but in many respects we have distant ourselves further from each other by staring at our computer screens and forming ideas about what we read. And nowadays many things are written and have no basis in fact.

Sure it may bring about more analytical skills in what we actually do discuss and read ( if in fact we do read, studies have shown most scan the internet, but barely read) and expose us to new ideas and thought, but it's also possible that we so are content to view the World through our computer screens and not actually get out to explore the people that make up these viewpoint we hold dear.

This is a big problem for youth with video games and computers as this goes on. Getting them out to climb a tree, or hike etc. You can read about it see pictures of it, but it's not the same as experiencing it.

I say this cause we now have more access to communicating with anyone in the World than ever, but the world is a still a big mess. Ironic more communication but nothing has really changed. "Monkeys trapped inside of technology"

Perhaps with todays economic system falling apart right in front of our eyes, etc we realize technology is tool and a way of life yes, but cannot replace looking into the eyes of another, viewing gestures, sensing emotions and learning in this way. But there is something about getting out with ordinary people that brings us together. Some can't do this however. I wonder what has trapped them from believing so.

Technology is second actually though I used to think it was first. I realize it's the message that comes from one being to another that is important. If that message is not communicated well, it does not matter what technology you use. It's just a matter of bettering our communication skills, but I will be the first to say many give up when they face that it may be how they are communicating that is bringing the problem. Nothing more or less.

Even in video conferencing it's a step closer but human beings like to "feel" the company of others. This is why many (like I am today) decided to type this in the midst of a public setting just to broaden the scope of our experiences and not merely stare at a screen alone with my own thoughts. There is a time and place for that as well, but this maybe more a practical approach to bridging online and "offline" worlds.

Yes, there are many observations I have in the online world. But the reason I decided to continue and have a change of heart in relation to it is well my favorite theme since being here peace and love.

I have found and made contact with many I knew and did not know but made the effort to meet. This is key. It is not so much as common interest that make us friends, cause I firmly believe a common interest does not make friends, for an interest by itself is not a friend.

However a common interest can be a precursor to making friends. True friends areis a whole other subject and I will say are extremely rare.

The other area that has changed my mind in relation to the online world is that it can connect you with a higher purpose If and this is a big "if" you are willing to discuss your opinions, but not hold them dear. Most believe the opinions from their friends help them and they can at times but I ask who is living your life "you or them"? Like the song says "always opinions turning you round"

I observed that if you approach a conversation online or in person with a preconceived notion or ideal you might as well just hang with one group of people and call it a day. Or keep trying to get the answer your hoping for which could explain why some people break from friends and relationships without a second though. They simply can not break free from others opinions or preconceived ideas.

The internet has the potential to connect many diverse backgrounds and exchange many different viewpoints.

Seal forum has done this on many levels. I must admit we all came here for the music, but it has transcended it self beyond that. We discuss matters that have nothing to do with Seal or his music and this is a tribute to the diversity that this area brings.

It's important to realize on many levels that we can try and hide behind our computer screens but we are not helping the World and it's problems this way. Just as a kid or adult who sits behind a computer screen or desk for hours on end does not improve their health or for that matter break out of their comfort zone and hang with other cultures, backgrounds and diversities.

With everything getting so expensive thousands upon thousands being laid off, the world in shambles I have full hope people will look at the sameness and not the divisions between us.

In internet like TV could have been the tool that opened up an entire new world to us. For me there is no doubt I found a new world within, but never ever at the sacrifice of what makes it all worth while. Meeting and exploring past it all to meet you All.

Peace. Let us bring back to the internet, TV and the world that makes this screwed up planet actually pretty cool and that is our willingness to get past our preconcieved ideas about each other. It's rare to meet a true individual free from friends ideals and group thinking. It's really rare I find for a person to try and really think for themselves. It does not make them better or worse it's just I find it rare.

We do that and we will be with All, we can be all. We can be One.



One last thing, I realize what we share here is unique. When I look back at our laughter and fun in the now defunct chat room, discussion on this forum, the drama It's pretty close to being real. But it's not the same as being real in person. But regardless it is a unique place.



Fast

[quote]it is a unique place.
yes it is and some of the peeps here are unique too..... im glad my son bought me here and ive stayed ever since.......... luv sue xx

Internet Addiction linked to ADHD Depression

~

I bet some adults too.
Catch ya in the Real World Baby!

[quote]It's pretty close to being real. But it's not the same as being real in person.
that is so true but if i hadnt come here i would have not realised folks could interact like this and find friendships forged well and truly now especially from the other side of the world.. i find this interaction takes my mind offf the crap in my life so it can work differently. that said i do think the younger gen use the compy way too much and possibly dont go out enough...that said the outside world is not always pleasant either. they need a balance. what were we told ?? everything in moderation .....luv sue xx ps if i had the cash id be happy to go visit friends face to face especially all you peeps in hot places lol

Agreed.

Peace

This message has been edited. Last edited by: fast changes,

There is more...

http://www.cnn.com/2009/TECH/1...connected/index.html

okay out and about in Wonderland

Till another day