A lone voice crying out in the wilderness...

...is this thing on?

from JoeUser Forums

Just a quick one today. What this is is an appeal. Recently, my lovely and talented wife, Life-happens, taught me how to read the numbers that come along with being a joeuser. I didn't know it, but this site lets me see howmany people have clicked on my articles. That's cool, but it shows me something disappointing. Some of my articles have hundreds of hits, but only 6 or 8 replies. So either just a few people are reading my stuff over and over again, or a lot of people are reading my stuff and not responding.

That's ok, I do it myself, just read and not reply to most of the stuff I see, too. Life-happens pointed out that part of the problem may be the way I write; I've noticed that most of my articles are longer than your average joeuser piece, and so maybe some folks click on, see how huge the latest article is, then click off because it doesn't seem worth their time to read the whole thing.

Also, I know there's quite a few of you out there lurking, just reading and not responding. That's ok too, I started out here at JU doing the same thing. I don't mind if you want to read, I encourage it, tell your friends. All I'm asking is that everyone who's reading, don't think I won't welcome hearing from you.

It was my hope when I started doing this that some of the things I had to say would touch people, reach them in a new way, maybe even inspire them a little. So, if you're reading what I've written, and you like it, feel free to tell me so. If you don't like it, tell me that too. If it turns out that Life is right, and my articles are too long, let me know. If you think I'm an idiot, and a hack, tell me so.

When I started all this, besides just the opportunity to tell things as I see them, I was hoping to start some dialogue going too. So I hope I hear from you. I'd hate to think people think I'm a madman, out here on the Hard Road, talking all alone to myself.

 

misc
673 views 14 replies
Reply #1 from JoeUser Forums Top
now that i know you have this (and time permits) i will comment. i've been reading previous articles, trying to catch up with you and yours. you know i think you're not an idiot. you may very well be one of the most intelligent, considerate, long-winded (haha) men i know. i don't think your articles are too long. i'm gonna email your wife so i can get your email. i have lots to catch you two up on.
Reply #2 from JoeUser Forums Top
Naw...you're not a mad man. I've enjoyed reading your articles and commented on a few. It might be long at times, but always very interesting. Sometimes I don't leave a comment because, like the one I read yesterday, I wanted to comment, but it seem to me for all your friends, so I didnt' make a comment. But I did find it interesting and you always have something good to say. You're a very good writer and very inisightful too. So, don't stop writing because of too few comments. Now that I know that I can comment on all of your articles, I'll do so more often. Keep up the good work! And stay safe.
Siege of Centauri
Reply #3 from JoeUser Forums Top
I know the feeling. I have several articles going with very few comments. Maybe nobody likes them. I don't know, but we should keep on with what we are doing. I am glad you ran this article. You said some of the thing's I have been thinking! ThanksSmile!
Reply #4 from JoeUser Forums Top
All your articles have held great interest to me. You are a great writer...talented...inspirational...interesting. Keep it up.
Reply #5 from JoeUser Forums Top
your articles may seem long, but once I start reading them I can't stop. they are all very well written and thoughtful and thought provoking. thanks and keep it up.
Reply #6 from JoeUser Forums Top
You write good articles, but most of them come across as self contained and not needing a comment, at least to me. Why add a comment that you feel will detract form the article...
Reply #7 from JoeUser Forums Top
The only effect the length of the articles has on me is that sometimes I will have to wait until I have some time saved up later to read them. I think the length allows you to use the narrative style that you're used to, although I'm certain you could adjust to a shorter limit. (You may have to edit them down at first, and I'd be disappointed to lose any of your material.)

I understand, through Life's comments, that she is trying to get you to try your hand at writing and, perhaps one day, attempt a novel. While you might be tempted to write to your audience, in that case, I feel that your current style is fine and very readable. Besides, how do you practice for a novel if you only write short essays?
Reply #8 from JoeUser Forums Top
Hey, I don't think they are too long!!!!! I just said that other people might be lazy and not read them. Don't cut what you have to say, we want to hear YOUR thoughts! Besides it's addictive and maybe if people read it, they would realize every word is important!
Reply #9 from JoeUser Forums Top
I've been told that one of the reasons I may not get many responses is that I rarely respond to them. I don't mean to slight anyone, it's just that circumstance limits my time online, and so I'm either writing or talking to Life. But, I am going to try and make more time for responses, so here goes:

daehaksang, I'm glad you made your way here. I'm lookin' forward to your email

foreverserenity, thanks, and you're welcome to comment any time, everyone is.

Same for you, clwoods. the writing is worth it, keep it up

oleteach, you've been a fan since the beginning, thanks for your support

Thanks, mamester, and has Life convinced you to give this a try yourself yet?

Danny, I guess your feeling I have a concise, self contained narrative that needs no comment is a compliment, so thanks.

Pseudo, you realize that your stuff was some of what inspired me to give this a shot, right? You rock! When I get back, we'll get all the kids together and let em play in the back yard and eat way too much barbecue. How's that sound?

And life, I hope you know that after all this, the only reason I'm doing this blog is because you asked me to. Every article is a love letter to you. You are my muse, thanks for being my girl.
Reply #10 from JoeUser Forums Top
Hey Cuz~
I really enjoy reading your articles. It gives me an insight into a world that a few people I love are deeply involved in. I miss you a lot (even though we aren't super close you are an awesome cousin). My husband and I love your point of view and the unique way in which you choose to word things. I hope that when you get home that I can either go see you or you will come to Arizona to see the family. Be as safe as you can. We are all sending our prayers and love.
Reply #11 from JoeUser Forums Top
When I get back, we'll get all the kids together and let em play in the back yard and eat way too much barbecue. How's that sound?


It sounds really good. But I do owe your wonderful wife a visit, and we owe your beautiful daughter a present, too (we've already bought it, right before Christmas, believe it or not).
Reply #12 from JoeUser Forums Top
It is the "madmen " with gentle souls that make the world an intresting place to live in. blog on.
Reply #13 from JoeUser Forums Top
Hey, I am one of the ones that read but do not leave comments. DO NOT GET ME WRONG....you are a wonderful writer. All of your stories are great and extremely interesting. I dont leave comments because anything you write on here becomes scrutinized by every swinging **** and I dont put my comments on here (someone.joeuser.com) to be read by anyone else but the the person who wrote that particular article. Unfortunately, we all know how that turns out. People get offended and people whine. But, I apologize for not leaving more comments. I really do want you and your awesome wife to have points. You still rock.
Reply #14 from JoeUser Forums Top
i have read one or two of your articles...sometimes I don't have much to say on some things though...and not only on your blog, but other blogs as well...I guess I pretty much comment when I feel my 2 cents are worthwhile...like now....I'd like to comment that I somewhat share your sentiments...I'm not really into points and rank and stuff, but it still IS nice to get responses and feedback to my articles...hope you hear from more people...