We're a community...so meet your neighbors???

This is my first ever forum topic.  I'm not really sure where to begin. 

The year that I've been on here, I've met some great members of the site. Its been interesting to see what has gotten them into the game.  Originally, I started this off as a blog but then I thought, is it really important to learn more about your "neighbors'?  Is chess meant to be a social game?  I know how I feel on the topic (which is evident by my blogpostings). I think that the site is a goldmine for ppl who don't have friends that play chess in their "tangible lives".

Another question I have is has the social aspect of gaming (at least online chess) been beneficial to your personal lives?  Has being extroverted online transferred into your everyday (this is for the readers who may be introverted or shy)?  Is anyone having a hard time balancing their "virtual" and "real" lives? 

Below are some of my blog episodes that I have entried.  It was one means that helped me to know the other members.  After a few posts, I was amazed at the feedback that I got from random members saying that they were interested in knowing more about other members and what drives them and inspires them chess-wize.

I am very curious about what others have to say about this topic. It's been something that I have discussed with a few friends but want to see what YOU think and feel about it.

Thanks in advance for all comments :D 

Veggie

**Since it is always updating, I've posted the links on my profile.  :D

agreeing with karl

I have not listened to all the interviews, but enjoyed the ones I did hear of people I recognize from the chat room.  Great work btw.

You ask some great questions I've not really considered too much.

1. is it really important to learn more about your "neighbors'?  
I think this depends on the individual.  I suspect some folks just want to play the game, but in the end, if they are here looking for a game, it is real people they desire to play against, not Fritz or Chessmaster, so I think the answer has to be yes!  As far as real life, it should be important to learn about our neighbors.  After all, people, family and friends is what life is suppose to be about anyways right?

2.Is chess meant to be a social game?
Never really thought about this one either.  But for the same reasons above, I think the answer also has to be yes.  Whether we like it or not, we ARE social animals, and there's no question that crosses over into our chess lives as well.

I think that the site is a goldmine for ppl who don't have friends that play chess in their "tangible lives".
Agreed 100%.   Until recently there were no clubs close by, so basically it was play online, or play against the PC.   Personally I'd much rather play individuals.  I've made a number of friends on online, perhaps not as close as in real life, but friends non the less, that have a great interest in the same thing I have..chess!  

has the social aspect of gaming (at least online chess) been beneficial to your personal lives?
I think it is.  Perhaps as a get away more than anything else.  An "Online" escape is always there if you need to get away.     I'm sure there are other benefits, but I am drawing a blank at the moment.  

Has being extroverted online transferred into your everyday (this is for the readers who may be introverted or shy)?  Is anyone having a hard time balancing their "virtual" and "real" lives? 

I'm going to say no on both counts, although friends and family might disagree on the second.....lol   Maybe a better question for me would be, "am I having a hard time balancing my chess playing, and real world life"?    No doubt the easy availability of online chess contributes to my obsessing over aspects of the game, but, I think its the game itself I obsess over, not the virtual online part of it.   I'm sure we could all stand to put down the mouse (or chessmen) and go outside for and take in the real world a bit more.  Sadly, that seems to be lost art in our day and age.

Great questions!   Certainly got me thinking.

Regards!

Enjoyed hearing Chess Kebabs...Babs.  Thanks for taking the time to do and share this, Cutie.  I bet I'm the only Chess.com member you went to school with in person?  lol

That you are Afaf, that you are!