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Community

I am not talking about the TV show "Community," which I particularly like. Rather I am talking about an interacting population of various kinds of individuals in a common location. The key words being interacting and common.

Last month, in between school drop off and semi-monthly school mass, I starting visiting a small coffee shop a few blocks from Jordan's school. The first time I went to this place, I instantly liked it. The friendly owner chatted with me; and as others walked in, it was clear the owner knew pretty much everyone and what they typically ordered. There were four people who were there during my 45-minute stay, and I felt comfortable enough to join in on part of a conversation. I discovered the two women walk around town before coming in for their morning joe, and one was married to a guy who arrived later.

This past Monday, I decided to walk to the place. It was a beautiful crisp morning, and I figured if I was going to down a few hundred calories, the least I could do is burn off a couple dozen. When I got there, I commiserated with the owner about the Steelers game. And when the two walkers came in, I told them how they inspired me to arrive on foot.

Each time I leave this place, rather than despair over spending a couple of bucks that I probably should not (Dave Ramsey would never approve), I rejoice in what I am gaining. Real, live, human interaction. Grousing about the Steelers and heralding the weather (both rather atypical this time of year). And supporting a local business, where I am more than just an orderer.

In some ways, the blogging community is like that. Yesterday, two of the blogs I follow "connected" with each other, if you will. I noticed under My Blog List that "That's Church" had a post entitled "Callapitter" which is another blog I follow. Ginny of "That's Church" and her followers gave a whole lotta love and support to Amy of "Callapitter." If anyone deserves those things, it is Amy.

I much prefer talking to people in person; there is much more to be gained, IMO. But there is something special about the connection of a blogging community. Sometimes it is easier to let your guard down, share more, be raw.

Either way, I am all for interaction and sharing common ground. Ah, community.
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Comments

Anonymous said…
Thats great that you go to this place and have your sense of community. Seems much bettter than Starbucks!

Blogs are good too and I am glad that Amy is finding online support. But I am with you when it comes to face to face interaction. Many of us need to slow down and realize they are other people out there.
November 20, 2009 at 9:48 AM
chris h. said…
Working from home, I am alone so much. I really miss the interaction with work friends. I'm sure I would frequent a local coffee shop, if we had one. (Besides, it's so important to support local businesses over "the chains.") I look forward to yoga class every week just to be out and see my classmates. And I really enjoy my virtual friendships and interaction. Keeps me somewhat sane. Sometimes a cup of coffee is more than a cup of coffee.
November 20, 2009 at 10:35 AM
Facie said…
Anon, I have nothing against Starbucks, but I do much prefer, as Chris said, supporting a local business.

And, Chris, I like your "sometimes a cup of coffee is more than a cup of coffee." I had a frappe at McD's in Robinson Town Center, and it was just that, nothing like what I get from the local place.

I keep visiting Amy's blog and am heartened to see how many people have commented. Pittsburgh really is a great city (though some of those commenting are not from here).
November 21, 2009 at 6:13 PM
Sherri said…
Agree - on all points. Without my community - neighbors, school acquaintances, people I know through other people, etc. - I wouldn't have any sense of support at all (having a pretty scattered family and all that entails). Loved your post.
November 25, 2009 at 9:36 AM
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