September 30, 2010

AP Accepts Bloggers

It is about time! Earlier this month the Associated Press announced that bloggers should be cited as news sources. As a blogger I think this is great news!

In a world where all media is becoming social, this is long overdue. This gives bloggers recognition for the work they contribute to the news media. It also sets the stage for news to become a more open conversation instead of a centralized distribution of content. I think this is an intriguing possibility! News is what is going on in the world around us. By nature, most people are social beings. With technology our social circle and interaction is no longer restricted by our physical location. We live in a global social community. World news should be compiled through the collective observations and contributions of many connected citizens from around the globe, including bloggers.

Another implication this change will have is to remind bloggers of their responsibilities. Just like traditional journalists, bloggers will need to be held accountable for what the information they post and the words they write. But, this is not a negative implication. Many bloggers have assumed this responsibility all along – this change gives these individuals the credibility they deserve.

Thank you to the Associated Press for adapting their policy to better suit our socially connected world.

September 11, 2010

9 Years Ago - I Still Remember

Today is the ninth anniversary of 9/11. The horrific events that occurred that day changed my life forever. My friends and coworkers were among those who died that clear September morning. I remember that day. And the week, month, and year that followed it. Those times – all of them – changed my life and changed me.

But, that is not why I am writing today.

This year I am sad to see this day surrounded by tension resulting from religious and political divisions. Hate and anger. Frustration. These are not the feelings that we should have as we remember those that died. I wish if there was one thing that we learned from 9/11 it would have been acceptance. And I hope to someday – in the not too distant future – live in a world with great tolerance and understanding.