I listened in on a conversation between friends a few days ago.
One friend said, “I think the Internet is great for research, for learning about things, but I do not think it is right for people to be able to connect with each other as readily as they do across thousands of miles. I do not think that is the way things were supposed to be.”
Normally I chime right in, say how I feel. But I remained quiet. As shocking as this might sound, I was lost for words.
For whatever reason, tonight I stared at a map of the United States. And then I remembered the conversation.
I looked at the map and thought about our connections. We really are scattered about. Far and wide. But are we?
I thought about how we learn from each other. How we share in bits and pieces of our daily lives. How we can operate a business from home, doing what we love, holding onto our dreams.
I think about my friends that do ministry work online.
I cannot fathom any of that being a bad thing.
I feel rather blessed.
How about you?
Annies Goat Hill Handcrafted Soaps 
Oh yes!
I do!
I have met so many wonderful people through mine and other blogs. I have learned so many things (like wine soap) that I would otherwise not have had the chance to learn.
Before I started my blog or read any other, the internet was just a place for research and email.
Now, it is a whole different world that I have yet to see through another’s eyes.
I love being connected to my friends & family online.
That is the silliest thing I have ever heard!
There’s certainly a larger purpose for this fantastic technology and communications eruption. We’re blessed in this information era.
I started up again in genealogy back in 2000, online. I connected to a gal and after a year or so, eventually started talking on the phone and have since become great friends (not to mention potential family members! lol)
Just recently, I reconnected to an old school friend… and this has brought some very positive things to my life. This could be one of the biggest blessings yet.
Most likely, none of it would have happened if not for the Internet.
I can see the benefits and the drawbacks, however when I read this I thought of a song I have somewhere on a C.D. and another on an old tape, both old songs about family leaving home to travel to another continent, and one about family leaving the East Coast to travel to Oregon in a covered wagon. Both songs seemed so mournful and in a very real way they must have mourned, because the only contact they would ever have with family again would be via mail, and that was not much assurance. So loved ones moving far distances might just as well have been dead, for they certainly lost contact with each other. That cannot happen anymore unless family and friends choose to allow it, so there it is a blessing and miracle of technology.
The draw-backs I might touch on later, but Veteran’s Day brings to my mind the drawbacks, serious drawbacks of instant communication..and I don’t want to go there now.
I think the only sacrifice we make while connecting online, is that sometimes we cease to connect with our friends, families, and neighbors. When one replaces the other, I think it’s problematic. When one enhances the other, I think it’s brilliant.
If it weren’t for the internet and our ability to meet and reach others across the country – and world – I would never have met you, Mary! And my showers would be a lot less enjoyable.
Thanks for the thoughts! Love it when you make us ponder stuff.
XO
Kathy, I had a lot of mixed emotions on Veteran’s day. I was not able to touch too much on it myself, except through comments on blogs. I honor the Veteran’s from the deepest of my heart. As far as the instant communication is concerned. That was also a part of my heart and thoughts on Thursday. It is not helpful in all situations. It is definitely a “con” in those that I think you were alluding to. I hear you on that one, sister.
Becky, that is what I love, the learning. It isn’t so much the swapping of friendship, even though that is a big part of it, it is the interesting side of life. Learning so much about things that we would never of dreamed of!
Wine soap for example…ha ha ha.
Debbie, yes, ma’am, loved what you said about the “larger purpose.” Nodding in absolute agreement.
Stacey, the remark did seem silly, but I decided to sit it on a shelf and not say a word. It came back out as I looked at the map. Love the comments…interesting.
I recently reconnected with co-workers and my boss. My world seemed to come back around full circle at that point. 8 years is a long time. Lynnanne, I find it a blessing to be at our fingertips as well. An amazing connection tool, the Internet.
Alix, well, now I am pondering what you said. 🙂
I think a person that is basically “addicted” to the Internet just might swap it for connections with family, friends, neighbors…but, using your word, it can really “enhance” a life as well.
Hinder us when we get too tied up in Internet connections, taking one too seriously…but also hinder when we do not take it seriously enough.
10 years ago we might have said, “Well, that is just an Internet friend.” Now, we realize that we are involved in real connections. Off the Internet we have close friends, casual friends, and aquaintances. That is where we need to draw the line in all of our connections. We cannot be all to everyone at all times, including the Internet. It also requires a balance in life!
Another topic…another day!
Now I am pondering again…oh boy…thank you.
I truly feel blessed too! I am glad I can share my faith with others and that I can keep in touch with my family and friends.
~Amy
Oh, Amy, I agree with you so much on those points!
By the way, Amy, where is your beautiful photo via. your avatar?
Totally blessed – I found my DH on the internet! we communicated for a while online and then met in person and the rest is history! Besides -I cannot imagine my life without the blessing of my bloggy pals!
That is truly wonderful, Linda Sue!
I met my husband on the Internet as well. It was a surprise. Two good friends that meshed.
Loved your “bloggy pals” description. 🙂
For me-it has been a true blessing : )
I am glad you find it to be a blessing in your life, Tipper.