Sunday, October 24, 2010

Saying Hello

Introductions
Welcome! Thanks for stopping by. Since I've already explained my vision for this blog, I'll add only a few words of introduction here. I'm Jason... and, come to think of it I also introduced myself elsewhere as well, so I'll save the space here and encourage you to read that.

The plan is to leave comments open on every post, this one included, so if you'd like to do any introduction of your own, have at it.

What to expect from me
Most likely (unless you've scrolled down or searched the archives to get here), what you're reading here is the only post you find here. In that case, even after reading the info I linked to above (which can also be accessed by clicking the "About" tab below the blog title), it might be difficult for you to gauge whether or not it is worth your while to stick around. In that case, I can offer a link to my former blog, where you can get an idea of how I typically write, and what I like to write about.

Since you probably aren't interested in sorting through almost two hundred posts, and since I haven't been very active in updating the content this past year, I'd recommend some selected favorites, which I've called "top posts", or you can choose whatever looks like an interesting topic (see "by topic," directly below "top posts").

How often will I post new content? My hope (hold the laughter, please) is that you'll find the site updated every week, probably on the weekend, so that if you come by on Monday or Tuesday you'll find something new.

What I hope for from you
A few words on comments. I never like it when a blogger begs for comments, so I'm making it a point to not do so here, and I'll probably not bring the subject up again.

Most blog readers are commonly known as lurkers: regular readers who remain anonymous because they never comment. On the one hand, I'm fine with that. There's no rule saying that readers are obligated to leave comments; and besides, it would be hypocritical of me to say otherwise, considering how many blogs I've read without commenting. If you're encouraged by what you find here over the months to come, you're most welcome to continue reading, even if you don't comment. But...

First, I hope you feel comfortable saying hi. The blog is meant to have a personal feel (as in stylistically more conversational than Associated Press, not as in Myspace diary). It's not as though you'd be submitting a comment to an uninterested editor. Barring an unexpected deluge of comments or an unexpectedly busy week, I should be able to respond.

Second, it is a blessing for an author to receive feedback from others. Whether you are encouraged, find your thoughts stimulated, aren't sure you understand (or agree with) what I've said, or flat out disagree and want to graciously challenge me, it is usually both helpful and encouraging to hear from you. (In fact, if I'm wrong about something, I prefer that somebody speaks up.)

Third and finally, if you actually know me in real life, it would be great to hear from you at least on occasion, even if you don't become a regular commenter.