6 Comments

  1. You come across very considerate and accepting of a variety of views. Not to mention inclusive! It’s something I’ve had to learn too, that my way isn’t the only way or the right way. I was very focused on my own view when I started my blog at 17 (which hey, self-absorption comes with the icky teenage years anyway right?). Now that I’m basically ancient (I kid), I think I’ve become a lot more open to other ideas and like you I hope that is conveyed in my online presence.

  2. If we were all the same we woudl be so much worse off. We need agree on everything to be civil and joyous to each other. I woudl rather be different and disliked than all the same and liked. So yes I think we can disagree and still be friends. There are no winners take all ever.

  3. Frank,

    Excellent article. I like your point about being hesitant to post in online D chats because not everyone will agree with you. It’s surprising how people will argue points that seem inarguable online. The good thing about the DOC, generally speaking, is that the arguers aren’t just being negative, they’re just giving their actual opinion. Even when some people disagree with you, others (maybe lurkers) are thinking “good for him, I agree!”

    Everyone’s diabetes is different, as they say, and that’s true for physical/medical details as well as psychological approach to it. I wouldn’t want any voices removed from the DOC though; every one gives it shape.

  4. A famous man once said “if we all think alike, then somebody isn’t thinking.” Like any other social group, the diabetes online community is stratified. There are the insiders – the old timers who shape the conversation and have the role of ‘thought leaders.’ At the other end are casual observers who watch from the sidelines but don’t actively participate. In the middle are folks like me who desire a more active role, but approach many of the discussions with a little trepidation.

    Being heard and having an active voice in the discussion can be challenging and intimidating – particularly when we do not have the same experience and following as the old hands. I think for us to be embraced, we must be a breath of fresh air and add new perspectives in a positive, uplifting way. It’ll take time and persistence, but for the diabetes online community to grow and thrive we have to keep at it and the ‘leaders’ must be open to new voices.

    Well done, and well said!

    Tom
    http://www.thomasgoffe.com

Leave a Reply