This week's blog prompt is courtesy of carinc, which I found via Tink:
Do you find it easier to "be yourself" when communicating online with people you've never met? And without being specific, do you belong to or visit many online communities, or just this one?
For me, it’s always been easier to be myself online, there’s no risk involved. I’m nice to everyone and they’re nice to me. Oh there’s been a few who crossed the line with me, but I banned them and that took care of them.
I have had to make 2 phone calls in the last 2 years to apologize because I felt I had offended 2 bloggers with some commentary. In both instances, thankfully, I was told my fears were unfounded. Still I was relieved to know all was okay and we were able to resume blogging.
I find I do better online because my job requires me to meet lots of new people daily. That is very draining for me, so dealing with people online is such a pleasurable low stress experience that I enjoy it.
I’m very glad that my first blogger encounter was w/Eric, who was so experienced with meeting bloggers that he made me feel at ease. I was definitely nervous and had a horrendous day prior to meeting him, but he was funny and charming and made the whole experience fun, so it helped me look forward to other blogging events.
In looking back I owe Eric big time for making it so easy for me. Next time he comes to NY lunch is on me and we’ll be heading downtown to Little India, a one block stretch where all you’ll find is a string of Indian restaurants on after another.
Want to hear something funny? I first met the Jawja crew in Helen 2004. I was introduced to most of them while they were in the midst of eating dinner. I felt awkward about interrupting their dinners but Eric went out of his way to make me feel at ease, too.
Posted by: zonker at November 5, 2006 11:53 PM... I'm down with the Indian, sister... oh yeah!...
Posted by: Eric at November 6, 2006 12:23 PMI have to plan a trip to NYC sometime soon. Indian restaurants.... Yum. You will have to get the bug to tell you about her experience at the one we went to in South Florida, when they were serving a champagne brunch. Indian food and champagne... a winning combination.
Posted by: Tink at November 6, 2006 08:08 PM