It is interesting to think what defines if you know a person. On one level, I have said, yeah, I know that kid, because I have seen them in the Bensen many a times, it feels like I know them because of that. Where, in reality I don't know the person's name or what they do, or anything about them at all. I've also found myself saying I know some people in my ward, because I have played soccer with them, and know about their life, who they like, and what their major is, I know a little bit about their family, and their future plans. Yes, I would say that I know that person, but I don't think that I know what their fears are, nor do I think that I know anything about their childhood, or many of the trials in their life, do I really know them? What about someone that I've lived with for a year, could I say that I know them? For my roommates I would say yes to that question, but in all reality, I don't know if I really know them, for example, I lived with Kayla for a year, and I am learning SO much about her through her blog, I look forward to reading her writings, and learning more about her, I don't know if I really knew her just because we lived together. But is it just learning about people that defines if you know them?
Well, this whole thought process came after reading Tiffany's blog and thinking about if I really know her. I don't even know if I have spent 12 hours with her, maybe, and I wouldn't say that we are necessarily close, but I enjoy reading her blog as often as she updates it. I enjoy hearing about her view of life, and her optimism, and how the gospel is just a part of her. I enjoy hearing about her teaching experiences, and her single life, her adventures, and her friends from far away and how she stays close to them. It helps me to gain a better perspective on life. Do I know her? Well, not really, but I feel like I do because of her blog. I feel a connection to her, despite that I really don't have one.
So, I guess that gets me thinking.... do I know the people that read my blog? Do they feel closer to me because of it? Does anyone even care about what I have to say? Most of the time I think that no one should, my life and thoughts really aren't that interesting, but then I think about Kayla, and Tiffany, and how much I enjoy reading about their life even though I am not really a factor in their lives. So, to all of my readers, do I know you?
5 comments:
I've thought about this a bit before too. I do think you know me a lot of me:).
I think blogs are great for seeing some of the insights to a friends phyche that maybe you wouldn't normally talk about or might take a while to come up in converstaion. I think writing on a blog allows people to see a lot of your character and personality. However, some people are more or less apt to share personal details... Besides the blogging aspect, I think you're right, really knowing people is getting to know them...as well as understanding them in a non verbal way too. Like my roommate Niki sometimes knows exactly what I am going to say or how I will react to something before it happens! I do feel like I know you better, I enjoy reading your blog and I love it when you share what's really on your mind, it's fun. That's what I love, really knowing people and what makes them, them...so keep writing:).
This is exactly why I started my blog 4 years ago. (before it was the 'cool' thing to do :) ) I wanted my family and friends outside of Georgia to maintain that 'connection' that comes from just seeing people around the ward, school or office building. I wanted people I loved to actually know me (and many actually do know me better because of it) :)
I care, and I'd like to think I know you, based mostly on history and consistency of character.
It is interesting =)
I know you and you know me. Sometimes better than we know ourselves... Much love.
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