Acceptance; it seems so easy here but,

#1 Postby **azskyman** » Wed Apr 23, 2003 11:27 pm

Acceptance, it seems so easy here on Storm2k, but in "real life" there are all kinds of challenges that beat us up every day.

Trying to keep up with our peers. Being accepted for how we look. Being a single parent in a troubled world. Struggling with sadness among people who don't seem to care. Recovering; from drugs, illness, or depression. Being judged by family, friends, or those in the workplace or school. All that is very hard in the "real world" but seems less of an issue here at Storm2k.

And that in spite of the fact that we are so varied in age, race, knowledge, and background.

What is it about this place that makes us feel more comfortable and less intimidated?

I'll start by suggesting that I believe that most of us have had our fill of people who are shallow and fake and disappointing in our "real worlds." Instead, we come here hoping to find people with substance who have been around enough to know about pain and anger, but who also know the importance of giving something to others who are wearing those same shoes. We're here looking for real people who spend more time being appreciative of a cybersmile than thinking of how to scam the person next to them.

We're here because we want to believe in the goodness of people after having the dark side pierce our hearts....by the hard world outside, by our family, or by those we thought were our very best friends.

So why do you think people are more accepting of you here?

Stormsfury · #2 Postby **Stormsfury** » Wed Apr 23, 2003 11:34 pm

I've wondered about that myself ... but that is a great post, azskyman.
I don't know if I can honestly answer that question, but I, myself, feel more comfortable this way ...

#3 Postby **vbhoutex** » Wed Apr 23, 2003 11:36 pm

Steve, I think you pretty much hit it on the head. The only thing I might add is that the anonymity of the internet may be involved. I'm not saying that anyone here is like so many out in the "real" world. After alll we are the real world of the net. But some may fell safer "hiding" behind the net. I know the bad people of the net do since they think they can't get caught. JMHO.

Personally, I would love to meet everyone at Storm2k!!

ColdFront77 · #4 Postby **ColdFront77** » Wed Apr 23, 2003 11:43 pm

Hello Steve. Interesting topic.

I much rather communicate with people online. I find it much easier to correspond online rather than face to face, thus I really in truly enjoy corresponding with everyone here at Storm2K... most of us have a common interest here, that of course being weather. I really enjoy the off-topic discussions, including the Fun & Games forum.

Some people are understand about people who aren't as outgoing and hopefully those that cannot accept it as easily, may learn a thing or two about people that find it difficult to correspond with people face to face.

I have improved some, but to a point. I will be 26 years old in July and everthing seems like it will be the same or just about the same. For most people, when they reach there 20s, the chances of doing such things as drinking alcoholic beverages and smoking become more and more unlikely.

#5 Postby **streetsoldier** » Thu Apr 24, 2003 1:44 am

Not wishing to "beat a dead horse", but as most of you are aware, my PC is my only "social contact' with the world outside the walls of this apartment.

Yes, I would welcome "real" meetings with you all; not likely to transpire in the foreseeable future. This, then, will have to do.

Guest · #6 Postby **Guest** » Thu Apr 24, 2003 6:24 am

I think Storm2k is a safe-haven too because we don't allow flaming - personal attacks and etc to happen here - so everyone is protected. There are alot of people who HIDE behind the internet and who aren't who they say they are - its truly sad - because you are who you - no matter the reason. I have personally meet one person from the chatroom and have spoken to several on the phone.

Thats the reason we started the photo gallery to show each other who we are - its a risk but whoever got anywhere in life without taking risks - I know I haven't . There is always that threat of stalking, twisted attachment to someone on the internet - we all witnessed that here earlier - but situation was handled - and life goes on.

Once again azskyman - a very good topic.

Patricia

#7 Postby **cycloneye** » Thu Apr 24, 2003 6:35 am

Great thread again Steve and for me it is simple why storm2k is running so smoothly is because the administrators and moderators have interaction all the time 24/7 with the members and that is key for a board to run as this one is doing.But of course sometimes somebody with bad intentions comes and trys to disrupt the peace of this board but we rapidly deal with those troublemakers that are minuscular in numbers.

GulfBreezer · #8 Postby **GulfBreezer** » Thu Apr 24, 2003 7:45 am

Here is my 2 cents.......
I have actually posed this question in class. I am a student at University of Phoenix in their on-line program. I am finishing my Bachelor's and going on to get my MBA. The on-line arena gives us a way to let down our defenses. The stereo-typing is not as prevalent and we can only base our impressions on what is in each others posts, which usually come from the heart and head. I have taken many communication classes in this on-line environment and the actual statistics show that grades are much higher in this environment simply because we are not held back in communication because of shyness or fear of rejection. Another thing that we have looked at is that there is a downside to this because there are people who actually stop dealing with the world in a face to face manner because they are more comfortable on a computer. This can be very detrimental to social skills. I am a single mom of 2 boys and because of school and work and everything else that I am busy with, I rely on my computer alot for social contact. I try to remind myself that I really need to get out more.

This Storm2K board is really a fabulous place though and I am glad to be back. I would have been back sooner if I had realized everything it has to offer. I love the gallery and it helps me to put faces with the names. Mine is in there!! Has been since Oct 02'! I love my on-line friends and have met some truly wonderful people through my computer!! Keep up the good topics!!

#9 Postby **wx247** » Thu Apr 24, 2003 7:48 am

I am comfortable communicating both online and in the "real world" but I came to Storm2K because I was looking for people who had a common interest with me (weather) and to meet people from all across the U.S. and the world for that matter!

#10 Postby **pojo** » Thu Apr 24, 2003 9:53 am

Being on my computer is a relaxing way of handling stress. My life is busy enough and there are times that computer time is a way to re-energize my body for stressful events to come.

#11 Postby **bfez1** » Thu Apr 24, 2003 9:59 am

All of us have problems or situations in our life that are stressful or unhappy. I come here for entertainment and fun, just as if I were going to the show or shopping, this is fun for me. :lol:

And I have made a lot of new friends here. :lol:

#12 Postby **Stephanie** » Thu Apr 24, 2003 10:28 am

azskyman wrote:We're here because we want to believe in the goodness of people after having the dark side pierce our hearts....by the hard world outside, by our family, or by those we thought were our very best friends.

So why do you think people are more accepting of you here?

To put another spin on that portion of your post...there are days where "I vant to be alone" and just expend my energy and love on my pets. Sadly, there are days I really don't believe that people are good at all - the greed, ignorance, arrogance, "me attitude" really turns me off. Then I finally see something good or positive happen due to a person's caring and I feel better. Depending on the day, I may even cry. It may be due to my depression that I have days where I feel this way.

I believe it's like David said - it is easier to hide behind the keyboard (so to speak :wink:

) so you are not pre-judged by looks, etc. However, until you do get to know different people and are able to put a face with the "handle", sometimes you end up prejudging a person based on their posts and not fully understanding the history behind them.

Amanzi · #13 Postby **Amanzi** » Thu Apr 24, 2003 10:44 am

As usual a thought provoking thread Steve, and that is one of the reasons why I love Storm2k.

I come here to have my intellect stimulated, to learn from others and of course to have my funny bone tickled as well. I have been awed by the genuine care people on this board express for each other. The shell of the physical does not play a part in our relationships here, and to me it is a joining of friends with common interests.

My husband does not understand the love I have for the members here and finds it very odd I can have long conversations on the internet. Not being a very sociable creature "in real life" I get so much out of the interaction I have here. I am truly greatful for the friends I have made here and the wonderful threads and posts.

#14 Postby **Stephanie** » Thu Apr 24, 2003 11:01 am

Amanzi wrote:As usual a thought provoking thread Steve, and that is one of the reasons why I love Storm2k.

I come here to have my intellect stimulated, to learn from others and of course to have my funny bone tickled as well. I have been awed by the genuine care people on this board express for each other. The shell of the physical does not play a part in our relationships here, and to me it is a joining of friends with common interests.

My husband does not understand the love I have for the members here and finds it very odd I can have long conversations on the internet. Not being a very sociable creature "in real life" I get so much out of the interaction I have here. I am truly greatful for the friends I have made here and the wonderful threads and posts.

I know what you mean Bron - I get alot of queer looks from Marty, though he does spend time on the internet as well. I know that he's probably thinking - "who's that guy she's corresponding with?".

ColdFront77 · #15 Postby **ColdFront77** » Thu Apr 24, 2003 3:10 pm

Exactly, Bronwyn and Stephanie.

Amanzi · #16 Postby **Amanzi** » Thu Apr 24, 2003 4:25 pm

LOL Stephanie and Tom.

I know those looks.. the over the shoulder peek I call it. My smokes are always next to me on when I am online.. Hubby comes up to the puter and takes a really long time fishing one out the box, and takes his time lighting it.. just so he can see who Im talking to or what Im typing.. LOL it is actually quite funny.

Rainband · #17 Postby **Rainband** » Thu Apr 24, 2003 5:10 pm

I think the answer is clear..We all feel good here because of the class of members we have. Also If their ever is a problem it's delt with quickly and usually with finality. I also believe it is easier for some people to have internet friends because they don't expect anything from you but a reponse once in a while. I personally have bonded with several people on here and that rules!!!! But....If there are people out there that hide behind their computer and lie about who they are..They are only cheating themselves..because after you shut down the computer you are who you are hiding from and that is truely sad!!!! STORM2K RULES!!!! & So do our Members!!!!!! Because after all without you ..There would be no Storm2k :wink:

Thanks CHAD TICKA AND MF!!!!!! 8)

JQ Public · #18 Postby **JQ Public** » Thu Apr 24, 2003 10:35 pm

I think we are mostly civil to eachother because whatever we say can be seen by everyone and critiqued by everyone. That gives us a chance to be ourselves i believe and breaks down initial walls that we may put up towards eachother. I doubt we'd be this close if we were all co-workers or smthg like that.

JQ Public · #19 Postby **JQ Public** » Mon Apr 28, 2003 5:20 pm

but i am glad we are so close

Stormsfury · #20 Postby **Stormsfury** » Mon Apr 28, 2003 9:03 pm

I don't have too much of a problem interacting with people, but I feel that the atmosphere online (and especially here) is so much "quieter" and less hectic ... post and say what you have to say at your own pace...a departure from the "fast-paced real world in a figure of speaking".

Honestly, I've "connected" with more people here on a personable level here at Storm2k than I have out and about since I've been posting here.
Plus I have met one of the members in person.

Acceptance; it seems so easy here but,

Acceptance; it seems so easy here but,

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