Dear thepublicblogger, why did you follow my blog?

  Posted on by Kendall Fredrick Person

  1,009 Comments

Dear thepublicblogger, why did you follow my blog?

dear thepublicblogger

Dear thepublicblogger: First I want to thank you for following my blog. I could be cynical and say maybe you just did it, so that I would follow yours, but hopefully that is not the case. I am one to always believe the best about people first so I’m going to remain optimistic (although, I am glad to follow yours, because I am enjoying it quite a bit). –  cynical optimist

Dear cynical optimist:  I do not think you are being cynical in the least by inquiring the reasons for my joining your community. Cynicism would come into play if you did not ask. ‘Following’ is a common term used throughout social media, but here, we are neighbors. The cynic would be partially correct, but, in this case, a real cynic would not have obtained a season pass. The cynic would have judged my performance at the door, and never read a single post.  Several neighbors and visitors alike have inquired as to why I would follow them, and one very talented blogger, The Curse of Future Tom (2013 mid-season nominee Best Comedy Post/Blog) even wrote a hilarious piece (I hope he was being funny) ‘There’s Some Kind of Blogsphere in Here‘ wondering if I was up to something by following him. A very valid question and you are not alone in being a curious mind.

With a population of 65,000,000, if WordPress were a country, it would be the 22nd largest in the world, wedged right between  the United Kingdom (63,700,000) and France (65,700,000). It is a fascinating, international community, that enables all to build a platform to showcase their talents and/or to have a voice. I enjoy my trips around the WordPress world. The sites, sounds, stories, rants and raves I encounter from my desktop our priceless.

It is my vision that The Neighborhood become an international destination for entertainment, for discussion, for discovery, for intrigue and most importantly, for peace. Developing, designing and building the type of all-inclusive atmosphere, takes planning, promoting, imagination, intensity and sincerity.  But all of those things become moot, without  people to share in this journey, that unveils itself a little each day.

I learn of new communities, by visiting my neighbors’ communities. WordPress is brilliant in its simplicity of meeting new friends. Simply ‘Liking’ a post or ‘commenting’ on a platform, or ‘following’ another blogger, your Gravatar  or Hovercard serves as your ‘I was here signature’ linking back, from wherever you are, to your blog, making meeting new friends as easy as a ‘touch or click’. Freshly Pressed is an in-house promotional device, if you will, where ever changing categories of blogs and posts, appear, running the gamut from ‘Drawing’ to ‘Inspiration’ from ‘Startups’ to ‘Blogging’ with hundreds of stops in between. And the prominence of WordPress bloggers can be felt throughout the world wide web, as it is not uncommon  to read a headline at another online community or media source, clicking the link to follow the story, and finding it has led you to a WordPress blog.

Cyberspace, where billions have established homes, is made up of hundreds of micro communities.  Many people establish residence at one location and maintain ties to several more. WordPress is my home location, but with so many friends, family members, and early supporters at Facebook, I maintain smaller accommodations there, as well as SoundCloud, Twitter and GooglePlus, which are still  relatively new communities to me. I try to demonstrate respect by contributing to the atmosphere at each location, in a give and take. I fall short, but my intentions are good. Many times, I am outfoxed by the number of hours in a day. But at WordPress, my home base, my online resident location, being a good neighbor does not just solve fair, it is the very foundation, in which The Neighborhood is built.

I have visited, read, listened to and commented on thousands of posts from thousands of WordPress bloggers. I cross share works from different communities, and during the blogger awards season, dedicate myself to finding, visiting and reviewing hundreds of new blogs, as well as, blogs that I have bookmarked. In an effort to expand the consideration pool for the 2014 Thepublicblogger Awards,  judging criteria was established, including opening up the process to bloggers outside of WordPress, and international judging panels, and a popular vote via online poll, were installed. Utilizing this platform, the neighborhood has supported causes such as stopping bullying (BULLY) and supporting homeless Veterans and those suffering from ptsd (The Hypocrisy of War), and I am proud to do so, and humbled that my voice can be heard.

Why do I follow you? And you? And you? at WordPress, at Twitter and SoundCloud? Why do I find  ‘Friends’  at Facebook and Goodreads? Why do I make ‘Connections’ at LinkedIn, add ‘Acquaintances’ at GooglePlus, feed to Bloglovin and Tumblr and post at Reddit?

As a marketer, (the cynic will say I told you so) following is a tool used in promotions and attracting new visitors, as well as, introducing thepublicblogger.com to potential new neighbors and friends, Similar to most (if not all) performance artists, I revel in producing a sold-out show. As an author, blogger & writer, It allows me to introduce readers to my novels, series and other works I post.  As a volunteer promoter, it provides a larger audience for the incredible talent  I discover and share within a post. As a purveyor of peace, it brings the world together in a discussion of civility and respect. And as a visionary, I can see The Neighborhood as a destination, bustling with visitors, bursting with neighbors, teeming with life. But the number of followers is a false indicator for reaching set goals, and while a tool, it serves no purpose if the production falls below par and respect for community takes a nosedive. Smoke and mirrors may serve as an initial attraction, but it is beauty, and heart, and soul, and sharing, and caring, and believing, and understanding, and honesty and integrity and creativity and doubt and prayer and you that enables The Neighborhood to grow.

As of August 20, 2013, The Neighborhood has a population of 18,218 {updated: April 24, 2016: 84,678} and I am honored and proud to welcome everyone one of you. But there are so many you out there, that we have yet to meet.

No worries, we know you are there. And on July 4, eleven players will begin a quest to find you. And a voting audience, will eliminate those that don’t (big smile)

 

We know you are out there 

 Category: society, think      Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

1,009 Comments on “Dear thepublicblogger, why did you follow my blog?”

  1. “As a purveyor of peace, it brings the world together in a discussion of civility and respect. And as a visionary, I can see The Neighborhood as a destination, bustling with visitors, bursting with neighbors, teeming with life.” ~Sold!~ Mr. Rogers, move over–I was always love you first, and now I’m moving to this nEw neighborhood…
    Thank you for making the connection, Kendall–I look forward to seeing what else you have up your sleeve!
    Peace, Love and Permaculture ❤

    Like

    • After reading and enjoying more 7000 beautiful reader comments, one would think that I could be emotionally moved no further. Thank you for adding your enthusiastic, and kind voice to this forum and for giving me a smile that will last the remainder of the day. Welcome to The Neighborhood. So glad you made it.

      Like

  2. Thanks for the follow! Now I’m one less blogger who never heard of you before 🙂

    Like

  4. Sometimes I feel completely clueless and invisible in the land of blog, but then someone like you comes along casting some light and offering some open hospitality, and then I remember why I am here. Thanks for visiting and liking my blog! I look forward to seeing more of your posts!

    Like

  5. Very well written… I found you after you followed me 🙂 I stopped over and the title of this post struck a cord, so I had to read this one over others.
    Thanks so much for the visit and I look forward to seeing you again.

    Like

  6. Thanks for stopping by and following by blog (MyKoruLifestyle.com). I have enjoyed reading several of your posts as well. They are refreshing and I look forward to reading many more!

    Like

  7. Your perspective on visiting neighbors (and having block parties and such?) leave me much to think about as I go forward in blogging. Thank you for this insight.

    Like

  8. Kendall, Fascinating Read– and I love how you view this community!! I have much to learn from You, new friend! May your light keep on shining– Thank you for following Spark. Twinkle. Shine!–Blessings

    Like

  9. Thanks, Kendall, for being the first to follow The Write Way Out! I appreciate your vote of confidence, and the opportunity to explore your blog as well.

    Like

  10. I am so pleased to see a list of so many comments without snarkiness and negativity. So many times with social media it feels like you stumble your way upon two perfect strangers who will never see eye to eye trying to beat each other senseless with hateful words when neither of them will change their minds, let alone be open-minded enough to see the other’s point of view (I’m not saying agree with, I’m just saying seeing where they are coming from)…

    But, with your simple “Follow” of my blog, I find myself deposited here after clicking the link in “Related Posts” from the notification I received. And here it is, the wonderful side of social media. The support, the camaraderie, the feeling of belonging that is so needed and the reason why many of us enter the private (somewhat/sometimes anonymous)-yet-public (anyone can stumble upon) life of blogging. At the beginning, the first post goes up and you wonder – “Who will read this?” or “Will this just be a journal that is technically public but with only my friends and family reading this?” – Then, a follow – or two, or three – by names and faces you don’t recognize – and you begin virtual relationships with people that you will never meet. But you know each other and are neighbors. What a lovely concept.

    Like

    • Thank you for adding your voice to this forum, and what a wonderful voice it is. The Neighborhood is an all-inclusive place where everyone is allowed to express their opinion but without putting someone else’s down. Your comment confirms we are hitting our mark. Welcome to the neighborhood thelomasneys, so glad you made it.

      Like

    • Well said , a very familiar scenario that I see played out over and over in comment sections. It really is refreshing to find a “community” that supports, uplifts and just holds the space for others to be authentically themselves. Happy blogging to each and all of us!

      Like

  11. Hi there Kendall. Happy Wednesday! Thanks for dropping by and following my blog. Love your post by the way. What an awesome way to bring all the neighbors together for one big pow wow. I also like your writing style. Look forward to reading your future posts.

    Enjoy your day!

    Like

  12. Thanks for the follow! I am always leary of followers until I read their blogs! But I must say that 9 out of 10 times people are legit. Enjoyed reading your blog. I’m just learning how awesome blogging can be. With so many set backs in life hearing good news in other peoples lives is always a warm welcome. Look for positive outcomes in the near future!

    Like

  13. Hi, thanks for following m yblog, amuteforamuse. Looking forward to joining the Neighbourhood. Only question is, who are the bloggers that are going to keep my awake all night playing their music too loud?

    Like

    • Why not follow your blog. It’s a nice place to go. Your neighborhood makes me smile, think, and your words give off a nice vibe and I think you are sincere. So continue to write Kendall my neighborhood friend. And I and everyone else will continue to come to your neighborhood. Oh and we don’t mind if you come to ours and say hi once in a while too. Sometimes it’s nice to wonder into other neighborhoods. You never know what surprises you will find.. lol. Later…

      Like

  15. Love this! Being part of a community is so special, even if its on a more spiritual than geographical level 🙂

    Like

    • Seth – Thank you for adding your voice and for sharing Dear thepublicblogger, within your community. First, I am not sure if your question is for me or for your readers, but assuming it is for me, I will wait awhile before I answer because it is so full of ironies that I just want to enjoy it for a few. Be back soon.

      Like

  18. You did bring your blog to my attention and I am glad I loved your article I am also an optimist and love a great blog to read. Hope you find all of my blogs as fascinating.

    Like

  19. Love this .. neighbor. Am usually a little more predisposed to optimism these days – five years out of London does wonders for even the most ardent cynic! But having read thoroughly ad thought a little, I am fairly sure I’m a neighbor. But I’m still allowed to Thank You for “popping over” right? I mean, true some do it in the hope your followers will be curious about what you “liked”, we’re always interested in whose views those whose views we approve of, are approving of …. you insert the climate where you will! But in my case, I’m genuinely appreciative as I found myself here. And whilst you can take the edge off the London and take the girl out of England, you simply cannot remove the English need to say Thank You out of the girl. Looking forward to reading more.
    alienmountainmama

    Like

    • You most certainly are a neighbor, and I loved your introduction. I felt as though we were actually meeting – and I guess, in a way we are – just sitting on the porch and telling a little about ourselves. That what The Neighborhood is all about. WELCOME! And it is my pleasure to get to know your community as well. If no one else tells you today….you have put a smile on my face.

      Like

      • That’s fantastic. I doubt I will achieve very much at all today after a terribly traumatic parenting Sunday …. traumatic in the “I’m failing epically to parent my three year old in anything that could be considered a constructive way and she is supremely able to exploit that in humiliating public farces way”, rather than any sympathy inducing way. So making someone smile at anything other than the slapstick existence I live daily, is a GOOD thing. Yey for me. If I’m heading to your porch, I’ll leave the smaller, crazier and surprisingly even louder version of me at home. I’ll call the zoo for a sitter now.

        Like

        • from a smile to all out laughter. you are welcome on my porch any day. There are over 100 shows here for you to enjoy. Please, make yourself at home. You are appreciated. {still chuckling} p.s. I need your today laughter too.

          Like

  20. Thank you for following my brand new blog. I hope you will find it as edifying to read as I will find it to write. I also like your idea here.

    Like

  22. “Where writing is a performance art and every post is a show.” – brilliant analogy!

    Thank you for following my blog!

    Like

  25. I am honored and excited for your follow! It was a blessing to read your posts. Obviously, I had to follow you and become a closer neighbor. Looking forward to reading more.

    Like

  26. I am Honoured indeed. I read your post and enjoyed this idea. Your writing is quite fascinating. Thank you.

    Like

  27. I awoke to your ‘follow'” of my website and discovered a treat. Your blog’s concept of performance art immediately captured my attention and your writing engaged my senses. I’m an author but choose to keep my blog targeted to potential readers rather than other authors – hoping to engage people with the inspiration behind some words. http://www.vickiepettee.com

    Like

  29. Thank you for following my blog, and it’s an honor to be part of the neighborhood. Love your content…will enjoy reading often and learning a great deal.
    Thanks again

    Like

  31. In a nutshell, your attitude is awesome and so refreshing, in both its’ simplicity and humility. I admit that I clicked on this particular post as I was pondering the same question as is posed in the title. But even as I started to read I knew that it was only out of my own insecurity that I should even question your decision to follow me. I mean, why shouldn’t you ‘follow’ me and my blog, and make us ‘neighbors’ in the process? Of course you should! I am a wonderful neighbor! And, added bonus, I make a killer peach cobbler, which I am totally bringing to the next neighborhood block party. 😉 Thanks for being such an exemplary welcoming committee, Mr. Person. I’m glad to be part of this neighborhood. Oh, yes I am.

    Like

  32. First thing first,Thanks for following my Blog Spiritual Journey of the Soul !
    was just wondering how you found me or what made you interested in my posts 🙂 when i read your welcome post ! LOL!
    That was unusual , unexpected and welcome news ! kind of refreshing in a way.
    Anyway, grateful that you found me and i you, thanks again ! ❤
    and i will follow back ! 🙂

    Like

  33. Alright, you’ve persuaded me! Very interesting blog post, and a good message to boot. I’m game.

    Like

  37. Thank you for being Compose Her’s first follower! This will become a milestone for us. Have a great day and happy blogging!

    +Loverly

    Like

  38. Thank you for following me and welcoming me to the neighbourhood and I must say you’ve got some pretty good and impressive content here.

    Like

  40. Hi Kendall, Thank you for following my blog. I’m a beginner and I’m glad you found me:)

    Like

  41. This blog interested me as it was a question I was wondering, why did you follow me? In wider context why does anyone follow anyone? I’m sure out there are psychiatrists who have a pretty good understanding but hey I’ll just enjoy my growing followers.
    Thanks for following!

    Like

  42. Thanks for following Godshotspot.wordpress.com. I am impressed with your blog and the contents are impressive. Great job.

    Like

  43. Mr. Person. I appreciate your interest in my newest venture of blogging and choosing to follow my contribution however small compared to the numbers associated with your talent as a writer, blogger, and apparently a good natured man with a confidence that comes alive in your delivery. After viewing several posts your introduction and the welcome statement of joining the neighborhood is refreshing in its honest approach towards all who stop by. Thanks again, and continued success with your many endeavors.

    Like

    • It is always my pleasure to welcome a neighborhood into The Neighborhood, and you my friend are no exception. Your kind, sincere words, the time you spent here are both appreciated and serve as inspiration for me to try harder. To do more. To somehow using the tools that I have, to make a difference no matter how small. Getting to know other communities, like yours, around the blogosphere, is what of equal importance and what makes the neighborhood so special. Thanks for coming and please know, you are my neighbor and welcome anytime to come in and enjoy a show.

      Like

  44. Thanks for the post…it is always a question I have: why did this person choose to follow my blog? I am always honored that mine is chosen, it is just the reason that escapes me. I am a newbie to the blogging world so I am unfamiliar with many of the “tricks” of wordpress, I will catch on, though! Thanks for the follow and for letting me join The Neighborhood!

    Like

  45. Right On Mr. Person! Just another Neighbor here acknowledging and agreeing whole-heartedly with your sentiments and vision. Thanks for knocking on my door!

    Like

  46. Thanks for following, Kendall. Unfortunately, English is not my mother tongue, not even my second language. Anyway, thanks again.

    Like

  47. Hi Kendall, thank you for finding my latest post and following my blog so that it broguht me to yours. You have very eloquently expressed yourself and set a rather high standard for the rest of us. Well done, I look forward to reading more of your thoughts and hope you find something worthwhile in what I have to say also. Cheers, Sandra. 🙂

    Like

  48. Kendall, it’s 142am and I am trying to pry myself away from my guilty pleasure (my PC) so I can go to bed and get ready for work tomorrow. Like a child at Christmas I am always checking my “Likes” and “follows” and stumbled on yours.. I only read this post but hope to catch up on some of your others.

    I can already tell by your writing style that you are my superior .. at least in so far as writing goes 🙂 I am a novice as you can no doubt tell when you read my .. stuff. But for me, finding better and different writers keeps me inspired.. Thanks for following me and I can’t wait to read more of your pieces.

    Like

  49. Thank you for the recent follow!! I enjoyed your post and explanation here. I also am intrigued by your tag line — never thought of it that way but it’s a great point! I share your vision for a destination “for entertainment, for discussion, for discovery, for intrigue and most importantly, for peace.” Wonderful! Thank you for you for community-building contributions 🙂

    Like

    • Kelly – I find it nothing less than amazing how often we hear of the clashes of humanity, yet here in The Neighborhood, people like you and me, that are the same but different in every way, have found common ground of peace. Welcome to the neighborhood. So glad you made it.

      Like

  50. Thank you for this post. Inevitably, it’s always the first question that crosses my mind when WordPress tells me about my new followers. I mean, sure I’m happy about every reader and follower, but sometimes you really wonder why. So thank you for letting me know! And I really think the concept of “blogging neighborhood” is apt.

    Like

Trending
SING! even when no one is listening
'Young Black Men'
NAKED - AN ARTISTS COLLABORATION
'My Heart' first song produced entirely in The Neighborhood
INSIDE THE MIND OF.... YOU
The Five Reasons Why: We Are Our Brother's Keeper
'The Lives We Live' A Reality Show - episode two
Life on Every Level
BRINGING DOWN THE HOUSE: Common Ground was Found, But THE NEIGHBORHOOD was Lost
TRY

Enter your email address to never miss a The Neighborhood show

Join 81.6K other subscribers
Full Menu
Support The Neighborhood
Donate to The Neighborhood

You are appreciated. (big smile)

ABOUT ME
Kendall F Person
Kendall F. Person Answers Questions on Quora
Kendall F. Person on Quora