I think it happens to all of us who have played the game Second Life (yes it is a game people despite the constant reminder that those behind the avatars are real people): eventually pixels lose their luster. Sometimes it's because of a setback in what we term RL ("I thought we banned RL," is what I used to say) or sometimes it's because of drama in Second Life. Sometimes however it is because of good fortune in RL, such as a new job, a new move or a new interest. For whatever reason, it is, eventually for many, pixels lose their luster. The land of pixels, prims and mesh no longer has the allure that it once had and we move on. Some are dramatic about this and make a declaration on their profiles: "Gone to RL" or something like that is what you'll usually see on the new barebones profile, stripped of picks and everything but the splash page. Others might put in a comment denigrating those who still play and have been left behind. Usually the more dramatic pronouncement the more of a chance the person will be back either in that avatar or another. I will do neither of these things. I will say a few things however, if you are married and you are here either without or against the knowledge of your spouse, I don't judge you, I leave that to God. However, if you spent the time and energy you do in Second Life on your marriage, you might be better off. If you are neglecting your family or children, you need to logout. I don't pretend to know your situation and again I don't judge you. If you are being abused in this game, you need to leave it. Abuse should play no part of this experience and you need to walk away, delete and move on. If you are depressed and the game does NOTHING to aid that depression, maybe you need to get out and get some fresh air. I'm not a clinician, nor do I play one on TV but if this game is causing you pain or depression, leave.
I met some wonderful and not so wonderful people in this game and some that will remain lifelong friends. I look forward to communicating outside of the land of pixels. Cheers.
1 comment:
it amazes me how sl was so exciting and so much fun in the early days. i was addicted at one point logging in at 5 am until wee hours of the morning. it was filled with wonder and possibility. the anticipation of spending time with new friends exploring a new world or the ability to do anything you want to do was titalating. surprisingly, it has lost it's luster for me too. i no longer desire to shop for virtual things, spending rl money on rent and decorating another pixel home, or build a relationship that could vanish without warning. sometimes people seem heartless there just because they are hiding and will pay no consequences for their actions. i spend a few hours a week there now. i do have some friendships that matter to me there and i go to let those people know i care about them. i hope one day that i am as strong as you are and able to close this chapter of my life, but until then i will remember our sl friendship fondly. qat
Post a Comment