I {Meg} came across a couple really great quotes about social networking today. This has me thinking about the involvement of social networking sites with my own life as well as the idea of relationships in general. Let me share these with you:
“Social Media sites like Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin and YouTube are changing the way the world does business. I think this is in response to our desire to connect with others. Relationship Marketing is all about connecting with people first as human beings and then as customers later. For a real business relationship to work, both parties must receive value. If only one or neither does, that relationship won't continue for long.” -- Terry Brock, Marketing Coach and Syndicated Columnist
and
“Social networking is that rare sector of the economy that seems to be booming in the midst of the recession.” -- from Knowledge@Wharton article
It seems as though we went through a time where people didn't see each other. For that matter many places still exist like this. This began to change. We entered a time of ongoing conflict {middle-east} and improved news coverage {and continuous} and weather coverage. Suddenly - over a period of the last decade - people are seen as individuals again. Or at least that's what is being communicated. You really are important and what happens to you matters.
In the midst of a society that needs so much, I find this refreshing! This is how we live our lives - wanting to make friends! To be fully involved in our community. To really know you and be involved in your life. This has been increasingly difficult in a time where neighborhoods are full of beautifully groomed lawns with garage doors that open and close as tinted windowed cars drive exit. Gone is the day of block parties {for most of us} - now is the day of social networking and media! We may not be cleaning our cars together outside, but we are leaving notes for each other on our online "walls".
So, here is my question. Is this enough? Can we live online and miss out on so much? How can we take the connections we make via facebook, linked, and twitter and create lasting relationships?
We hope do do just this. To live together - online and in person! Perhaps this is just the time to do both. We recently moved, and have new neighbors. It may just be the perfect season of life to start fresh. To have a block party - or at least attend one. I've been inspired lately by a person with just such a mission. This person saw a need - and began a local {as well as social }movement to meet this need. It has changed many lives in just a few short months.
This is part of the thought behind the name "Two Cups". It's not just about one cup - but about time together - in person. Working together and living together! So, time for me to go say "Hello".
