I think we are definitely at an evolutionary crossroads with regards to technology and interpersonal relationships. The thing that fascinates me about the whole online experience is how very tenuous the whole thing seems to be- not that much has to happen, either naturally or by design, to knock this whole experiment on it's ass; then it's back to letters and ponies. I plan on enjoying it while it lasts, and adapting if it bites the dust. In the meanwhile, I am grateful for all the wonderful people I've become friends with, and for having a forum to express thoughts and feelings I might not otherwise.
