I just read this post on Make + Meaning, about commenting and interacting with commenters.
The article reminded me how much I love this space and got me thinking about how I like to interact with you all in the comments.
The Month of Love Contest is the MOST fun I've ever had in the comments. You all are clever and funny and sweet!
On the other hand, sometimes I avoid writing about a topic, because I want to avoid un-wanted advice or criticism in the comments.
But I'm uncomfortable with that, because I trust you to be kind and considerate.
So last Friday, I tried something new. I tried telling you what I didn't want.
In fact, I was pretty pointed about what I didn't want in the comments.
I wrote it in a hurry, from my mom's couch when we were supposed to be celebrating her birthday.
And later, when I read it, I worried that I had been too pointed.
Or just unclear.
And I want to clarify.
After the break-in, I was feeling particularly vulnerable.
And I got a lot of “you should move!” and “What are you doing to prevent another one!” and “Oh no! You must be terrified“, from everyone I talked to.
And while I appreciate the sentiment behind the remarks (concern, fear, sympathy); it was all too much.
I wanted to be honest about what had happened here, on the blog, but I knew I couldn't bear another round of you-shoulds and have-you-yets.
So I was specific.
And you honored that.
And I really really appreciate that.
I just want you, reader, lurker, commenter, to know that I love having you here. I love hearing your wacky suggestions for yarn, your commiserations, your enthusiasm.
Even if I don't respond to every comment, I read them all!
Today I'd like to know (in the comments!): what have you read that got you thinking? Or simply, what are you thinking about?
PS. As always, if you're reading this on Facebook (or anywhere else), go to the website to comment!
Suedee
February 3, 2010 at 3:22 pm (15 years ago)I came to this blog post through Twitter. You said you were feeling bracingly honest and I was interested to see what you meant. Honesty rocks. It's hard sometimes, but there's always a way to be gently honest. The cost of not having your voice heard is tragic, so say what you need to say. Real friends let friends be themselves and love them anyways.
Suedee
February 3, 2010 at 8:22 pm (15 years ago)I came to this blog post through Twitter. You said you were feeling bracingly honest and I was interested to see what you meant. Honesty rocks. It's hard sometimes, but there's always a way to be gently honest. The cost of not having your voice heard is tragic, so say what you need to say. Real friends let friends be themselves and love them anyways.