The space at Belmont University that was filled this last weekend with the blogosphere's elite (and elite-wanna-be's) is now filled with headset-ed-exam-cramming students. I have high hopes that both of those populations manage to demostrate actual learning. OK, so I am a romantic and an optimist.
There are a few lingering thoughts about BlogNashville that I want to post for myself. I have read and read and read the banter and interesting commentary from so many attendees that if I do not write this down, these thoughts will be drowned from my consciousness in the text-spewing aftermath.
Missing generations - I heard from older voices at this conferences who are (or will be soon) blogging. I simply want to hear more.
Wasted passion - The political corners of the blogosphere seem to be passionate almost to volatility. If this means that more people will become involved in the process of governance, decision making, and accountability, then I am all for it. If it means that all we are going to do is yell at one another without seeking understanding, then we are yielding the power that all of these combined voices can have and we are wasting our breath and bandwidth.
Dedication to expression - I appreciate what it takes to generate copy for a blog on a regular basis (personally, I prefer interesting, combined with substance and humor...although I rarely manage that myself). I admire those who deliver the good stuff on a regular basis. I met many of you this past weekend and consider it a priviledge to know the faces behind the blogs.
Discovery of Community - I am convinced more than ever that blogging is not about the technology, nor is it about rankings, nor even the passionate messages (however distorted those messages may be). There seems to be a groundswell of need to come from our 20th century cocoons and engage one another. Blogs can be a catalyst to connect people in conversation: some online, and more and more in a much more intimate, heartfelt, personal way. I really don't want to talk to my blog (or anyone else's), I find people (and some dogs) to be much better company and conversation.
I did warn you ahead of time, I am a romantic.
Technorati tag: BlogNashville
UPDATE: Jim & Lynnette have a terrific synopsis of the events, people and pitures on their Fun Times Guide.