we are all mythical hobbits

Some things take longer to die down than perhaps they should. Statements were misunderstood. People want to clear the air and move forward. It's human nature, seeking closure. Or maybe it's only dramatic if we make it so. But it persists, which says it must be about something deeper entirely, about the still undefined role of this place and the power it wields.

I've heard a number of people say post BlogHer this year that they aren't sure if they'll keep writing. That the conference caused them to rethink what they are doing and what they want to say. The energy around all of this has been very powerful and we've all got our own ways of handling the various emotions the conference stirred up.

Whether intentional or not, whether widely read or not, we have online personas, some quite akin to our real selves and others perhaps glimmery manifestations, but no matter how funny or serious or sad or angry or snarky or polite or well read or whatever, we have chosen to put our efforts into words that we then choose to share in the most public of all forums. We choose to do this and in the choosing we open ourselves up.

And if we allow for it, it can be incredibly meaningful. But that doesn't mean it doesn't come without responsibility. But to who? The writer? The reader? To thine own self be true? Is that enough? Or is that purely an american anthem about individuality and self-propulsion? I happen to think it's much more than that. I think we are all responsible and our responsibility is in making ourselves understood. Not necessarily liked all of the time, but at least understood.

We've got incredible power in this place. But it only works if we use it to turn the lights up. It only works if we can truly allow for give and take. But it's a choice, embracing this expansion, allowing for dialogue, widening the net. Allowing for compassion and for mercy. For depth. And then moving on.

Because if we aren't trying to be our best selves then what's this all for?