Barbara, what a fascinating post. I agre with you, though I’m not sure I’d thought it through so clearly as this. Maybe this is why I continue to invest in commenting - I would start to lose those connections and learning points not just with othehr people, but in my own head (and heart)

Joanna

Joanna Young´s last blog post..Simply Experimenting: The Results of My Writing Experiment Group Writing Project

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It’s refreshing to see someone write about commenting as a means of self-exploration rather than self-promotion. Hooray!

In spite of any personal epiphanies rooted in the act of commenting, I’ve found that I comment much less than I used to. In part, I think it may be because I arrive at posts too late to squeeze into the jostling conversation, to grab a word with the host, or to break up the fights! I also recognise that — increasingly and for many — commenting has become an act of ego, which rather puts me off it.

Where blog comments were once a way to take up the debate, now they are encouraged as part of a “marketing mix” or some other obtuse promotional strategy. I am guilty of using them for exactly this reason in the past, but the increase of noise to signal these days often makes me feel that my own thoughts would only dilute those of others and add to the din. Overall, I feel that the ratio is still too high, and can understand why high-profile bloggers such as Steve Pavlina and Merlin Mann have turned them off altogether.

Whenever I do comment, though, I’m often delighted by the benefits. Which, oddly enough, only makes me want to comment more…

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Barbara,
I just finished posting about how unreliable the current blog ranking systems are and the actual rank of a blog lies in how much interaction the readers (between them - not just with the author). Comments are what makes blogs (and online publishing systems) different from offline publishing right? So the real success of a blog lies in the reader engagement part reflected mostly via the comments.

As for your questions, I pour my heart out only on less than 10 blogs that I really like. Rest of the places, I do comment for traffic and/or backlinks
Ajith Edassery´s last blog post..Right Time to Start Your New Self-Hosted Professional Blog

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Barbara, great post. I could see you sitting at your computer with tears in your eyes, somehow though, I don’t think any of those tears were shed while reading my blog LOL, unless things like SEO brings you to tears hehehe.

I have yet to come to a blog article that really hit close to home in a way that has gotten me emotional. I suppose maybe that’s because the kinds of blogs I read tend to be informative tech blogs or entrepreneurial blogs. I suppose I do get close to tears sometimes when I see how much I have to learn (and will always have “much to learn”).

Joining in on a comment section does bring a little more clarity for me, but usually only when the author responds (which unfortunately usually means the blogger is not an A Lister). I suppose when other commentators join in and respond to my comment, too.

John Hoff - eVentureBiz´s last blog post..My Favorite Kind Of Website Statistic To Have Is . . .

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Being quite a private person I would find it difficult to open up too much in a comment. But what I will say is the act of blogging and reading other blogs has definitely made me a lot more open about expressing myself. My blog is not about life the universe and everything but it is still a great outlet for being funny, serious and generally feeling like I am contributing to a corner of the world we live in.

the three dog blogger´s last blog post..A Howling We Will Go

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Barbara, commenting definitely brings me clarity. In fact, just the other day I was leaving a comment on another site - and I realized by the time I finished, it was long enough that it could easily have been it’s own post! As I wrote, more thoughts kept coming into my head. Which led to more writing. And more thoughts…you see the pattern here.

And, on the other hand, yes - sometimes I haven’t commented, because something hits too close to home, or is maybe too personal for me to feel comfortable talking about it openly. Most things, though, I’m good with. And, it’s been a process for me to get where I’m at. When I first started, I would be much more likely not to comment - fearing I’d open myself up too much. The more I’ve been doing this, the more comfortable I am opening up. But then, the places I visit are all wonderful, supportive bloggers!

Lance´s last blog post..A Simple Holiday and Life Hack

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Ahhh…. commenting is just as hard as posting in my eyes. I have learned so much in the blogspere that I find that I type, delete, retype, etc before I publish as I may have to tone down what I have said or ratchet it up a notch. Heck, I write better than I speak!

Linda´s last blog post..Vu1 Technology

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To answer your questions
When you read other blog posts, does the act of commenting on them bring you closer to finding clarity? I only comment if I can relate to the post. So yes,

Does reading posts or comments on a post, open you mind to more possibilities? It depends on the post and the type of comments really..

Do you ever hesitate to leave a comment because the subject hits too close to “home”? Hm… so far I have not come across such a situation

Shamelle -EnhanceLife´s last blog post..Are You Constantly At The Mercy Of Circumstances?

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I’m definitely more inclined to comment on posts that mean something to me or that struck a particular chord.

It’s only after I started commenting more that I realized its quite a reflective exercise, and commenting helps me get more out of a post. As I type, I think more about what I’ve read. I’m even doing it right now!

Ross´s last blog post..So you’ve heard it all before? Part 3: Destiny

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Adding a comment, especially at the right time or place, can help to crystalize my thought - there’s no doubt about it. I liked today’s assignment a lot Barbara. Thanks.

Writer Dad´s last blog post..Writer Dad in Rough Draft

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I think I only comment when the subject is “close to home”…
or one that intrigues me… or one that I can aport with something.
or when is so funny that I need to say something…
or when I feel the person needs encouragement…
I think I like comments… they are a reason to keep writing some days… they give you some sense of achievement…
they build bridges…

UrbanVox´s last blog post..Drinks are on me!!

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I find I am sometimes prompted to write such a detailed comment that I then turn that comment into a post of my own. Here is an example (from a LinkedIn question not a post, but the same idea): Six Sigma v. Common Sense.

John @ Curious Cat Investing Blog´s last blog post..USA Manufacturing Output Continues to Increase (over the long term)

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Commenting on posts is as much an intellecutal exercise as writing a post. If a post is well written and engaging it will draw readers in to the conversation for the benefit of all. The conversation that develops in comments are often one of the best parts of blogging. It’s a medium that allows idea’s to be shared and for conversations to develop.

Neil´s last blog post..Surviving Black Friday With Your Wallet Intact

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I am usually rereading the post again as I’m commenting - to make sure that my comment adds to the value of the entry instead of just letting them know I was around. Upon my reread, I usually catch points and ideas that I missed the first time around.

I don’t think my mind is any more open - but I think I learn a lot from what I’ve read - and I never hesitate to leave a comment is something hits close to home - because then I think perhaps I’ve found someone who thinkgs things on teh same level as me.

Commenting is the best kind of community building anyone can do.

Matthew Dryden´s last blog post..She Was Gravity Twisted

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Hi Joanna - I like how you put that, “this is why I continue to invest in commenting…”. Commenting is an investment, isn’t it? Used correctly it holds tons of value.

Hi Brian - Welcome to the BWAB community. Yes, commenting does help to improve our writing. Just as when we write a post, we’re having to think when we comment.

Hi Nick - Welcome to the BWAB community. You’re right. Commenting is often promoted as a way to help others find us. And, for a new blogger, its’ often the best way. Like you, I’ve used this method, too, but the more I read blog posts and think about my reply, the more I realize commenting aids in my growth.

Hi J.D. - Yes, the writing process can bring out the right answer. Following out gut is also very important. The two are a great combination, aren’t they?

Hi Ajith - That’s correct. Blogs are interative and allow communication between the author and/or commenters. It’s not something we can engage in with offline publishing. Undoubtedly, a lot of off line publishers are probably glad they can’t “hear” what their readers are saying.

Hi Natural - You’re right. It does not make us weak to admit to our vulnerabilites. Many are in the same boat.

Hi John - LOL. No, SEO doesn’t bring tears to my eyes, however, if I used SEO and it brought me tons of traffic, then I might shed tears of joy.

The interaction between bloggers can be very beneficial, especially when they share what’s working, or not working, for them.

Hi Betsy - Oh yes, those conversations between bloggers is great to see. It shows the author that the visitors are not just reading the post, but the comments, as well.

Hi Three Dog Blogger - Blogging does that - makes us more “open”. I think when we see others opening up, and see a positive reaction, we realize it’s okay to show more of our soul.

Hi Mike - Ah yes, deleting part or all of a comment. That’s something I know I’ve done. There’s nothing worse than hitting “submit” only to reread what we wrote and say “Ooops, I should not have said that”.

Hi Lance - Haha. I hear you about leaving comments that could be a blog posts by themselves. I’ve actually cut part of a comment and pasted it into my “write” screen as I realized it was the start of a good blog post. Who knew?

And yes, we do get more comfortable being open when we surround ourselves with supportive cyberspace friends.

Hi Avani - Yes, sometimes it’s best to step away and think about what we read before we comment.

Hi Linda - Yep! Type, delete, retype, etc…. Who knew commenting could test our writing skills so much?

Hi Eric - When I read the post about your Dad, I was moved to tears. More so because I knew it took a lot for you to share what you did. That is one of my memorable ones.

Hi Shamelle - When something in a post resonates with us, don’t you find yourself nodding your head, saying “Me, too”?

Hi Catherine - Like you, I often read, and reread the comments left here. The quality of the comments and what the readers are sharing is simply amazing. Like you said, the comment section become a useful resource.

Hi Ross - Don’t you love when a post makes you think? That thinking process can lead to great learning and understanding. Who knew that would be a benefit of blogging?

Hi Sal - Thank you. You’re right. Comments help the author of the post in more ways than we can imagine. Building confidence and a deeper connection with others are just two of the ways. Thanks for bringing that up.

Hi Writer Dad - You’re welcome. Isn’t that wonderful how that works?

Hi Kathy - I know what you mean about revealing TOO much about ourselves, and like Mike said, we have to be careful not to reveal too much information about friends and family. It’s a fine line, but appears to be one most bloggers eventually walk.

Hi Urban Vox - Yes, it appears you love comments. They do build bridges, don’t they?

Hi Vered - I just clicked over to Marelisa’s post and read your comment. I see what you mean. As soon as I have time, I’m headed back over there to read the post in it’s entirety. I KNOW it will get me to thinking. Thanks for the link.

Hi John - Aren’t those comments turned into posts great? I’m glad you linked to your post as I noticed you changed your theme. It looks great.

Hi Stacey - What a great idea. I’m curious to know, what do you do with the comment logs? It almost sounds like they could become a journal of sorts.

Hi Neil - Definitely! The comment section is a great place to frequent. The ideas shares are phenomenal, aren’t they?

Hi Jodith - Isn’t that amazing how that works? We read something that really makes us think and we KNOW it has the makings for a blog post.

Hi Matthew - I agree. Commenting is the best way to build a community, and like you said, in comment sections we can often find others who think like we do.

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Hi Barbara,

I often mull over a post before I head back to comment — even if I’m late to the party (ahem, ahem).

Sometimes I don’t comment if a subject is too close to home, but not always due to the subject matter, but due to the connection I feel to the blogger and the community spirit they’ve created on their blog. For example, here. It’s the comfort level, and not the topic, that gives me the freedom to talk about more personal questions in public.

Yes, writing comments also helps me clarify my thinking — all the time! Words really matter — here and in the real world.

Linda Abbit´s last blog post..Inspiring Quotes for Caregivers: On Community — 12/3/08

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Commenting on other blogs ALWAYS brings clarity to my own ideas and it always sparks ideas for new posts!

The best is when the comment thread really gets active on the discussion (author included); kinda like here. Or when the conversation(s) move from comments to email. Or, when instead of a comment, your reader turns a reply into a post of their own while linking back to you. To me, these are the most engaging types of conversations! They always bring value and clarity and pave the way to new ideas!

PS. I need to speak with you Barbara
Ricardo Bueno´s last blog post..Need More Web Traffic? Let’s Talk SEO with Naomi Dunford on Dec. 3rd, 12:15pm PST

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Hi Linda Abbit - Mulling over the post is a great idea. That gives us a chance to collect our thoughts and leave a meaningful comment. Words do matter, don’t they?

Hi Davina - Those ah-ha moments are great, aren’t they? Commenting on issues that hit close to home do add a lot of value to a post.

Hi Ricardo - You’re right. Comments can lead to other opportunities, and like you said, “pave the way to new ideas”. I love when that happens.

Hi Patricia - I agree. For some reason putting our thoughts on paper stops them from spinning in our heads. Then we can see them in black and white and reread them and gain clarity. I also like what J.D. said - “ask better questions” and follow your gut feelings.

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I want to comment but feel too shy usually or intimidated. There are a few people that I have become familiar enough to comment on their site but most of the time I think too much like ” do i belong here, is my opinion or comment important on this subject?”

melanie´s last blog post..Vintage Keys. Trying to unlock my inspiration.

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I often find that I’m reading blogs during a time when I have little time to spare and if I can’t formulate a thoughtful comment, I end up with a “drive-by” comment just to let the person know that I was there. Others may frown on those short comments, but I know on my own blog, I appreciate any comment that is left because I know that someone took the time to reach out, however short it may be.

Karen Putz´s last blog post..Uncovering Written Memories

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Do you ever hesitate to leave a comment because the subject hits too close to “home”?

No, actually, these are the ones I am most excited to leave a comment about. It maybe through tears, as you say, but I am very happy to say to the author, and the other readers “Hey, me too!” I think that’s what blogging is all about. It’s about ’shrinking’ the world and understanding that we all go through the same trials and tribulations to one degree or another.

Urban Panther´s last blog post..Letting go of friendships

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Regardless of whether I contribute or not, comments are one of my favorite aspects of reading blogs (as opposed to newspapers, etc.). I love reading a post and then getting to see dozens of alternate viewpoints, or just getting a sense of how many folks agree or disagree. That’s one of the big unseen benefits to me–the 360 degree view.

Sara at On Simplicity´s last blog post..Lower Expectations Can Sometimes Be a Good Thing

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Hey Barbara,

So I know we chatted via email I’ll whip something up over the weekend. Thank you!

Enjoy the rest of today and I’ll talk to you soon…

Ricardo Bueno´s last blog post..TypePad Gets A Facelift: some cool new community features!

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Usually yes. I may be a fly in the ointment here, but most (experienced?) bloggers realize the “drive-by’s” are nothing more then link seekers….especially if you have a do-follow blog; even more so with CommentLuv.

Please realize that’s a general statement, I’m not implying anyone here is inexperienced (don’t hurt me).
Dennis Edell´s last blog post..UPDATED: Would You Like To Sponsor My *Best Blog Review* Contest?

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Thanks Ricardo.

Hi Tom - I hear you. I think I have a tad bit of “pioneer” in me, too.

Hi Dennis - Haha! I won’t hurt you, but I can’t speak for the others. I think it depends what a drive by comment is defined as. If it’s “great post” and nothing else, then yes. Those are also the ones I consider to be spam and I delete them. But if it’s a regular visitor who is dropping by to say, “Hey, I’m here, but don’t have time to elaborate…”, then I don’t see that as a drive by comment.

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Commenting may help me to have greater clarity on an issue - because it forces me to make a cogent statement about a newly formed argument.

Bamboo Forest´s last blog post..7 Greatest Strikes of All Time

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Sometimes it’s easier to “spill it” in a comment on somebody else’s blog than it is on your own. I try to keep my own blog positive and upbeat overall, just like I try to keep myself positive and upbeat!

If there’s something that’s getting me really down, it won’t be on my blog, but it might appear in comments on somebody else’s. Just like it’s easier to share some things with a therapist than with your own family. Like you said - it can be therapeutic.

Deanna - Adventurous Wench´s last blog post..Reflect upon your present blessings

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Babera,

Yes. Amongst the many benefits of commenting on other blogs, I find that it does have the effect both of helping me to clarify my thoughts on the topic concerned and also opens my mind to new possibilities for what I could write about on my own posts.

Personally, for me, the act of commenting, as opposed to merely reading, invokes a process in my mind which crystallizes, focuses and clarifies my thoughts on the topic concerned.

With respect to sharing more sensitive issues, provided that the blog concerned is appropriately chosen, one in which you feel is a safe environment in which to open up a little, then a problem or issue shared is a problem or issue halved. I would think that the mere act of sharing can in itself play a large part in the healing process.

Andrew´s last blog post..Why firms should pay bills on time

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Hey Barbara, thanks for not clipping my knees (keep an eye on your readers).

I meant to add that actually. If someone who is already a regular just feels like giving me a, “awesome post dude, love it!”, that’s fine…I do that from time to time on my regular reads also, and it’s always accepted for that reason.

However! (LOL) there is a problem there too…..the next commenter, who’s on my blog for the first time and doesn’t realize the “garbage” I’ve let through above him/her is from regulars and thus they feel said garbage is acceptable.

Never mind the fact that no one reads comment policy’s.
Dennis Edell´s last blog post..UPDATED: Would You Like To Sponsor My *Best Blog Review* Contest?

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Wow, you certainly had a lot of responses to this one! You are one amazing lady! I’m so glad we got to know one another over at my blog when I interviewed you.

This is an important topic - commenting on other people’s blogs - because it’s a selfless act of sharing your love with others, letting them know how much of an impact they’re making on you. Not only that but there are sometimes unforeseen surprises or opportunities that can come of it.

It’s a good way to find your way around the blogosphere and get to know people. I love it when people leave comments on my blog so why shouldn’t I do that for others?

What goes around comes around!

Stephen Hopson´s last blog post..Stephen Hopson Interview with Himself….Again

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I liked this post, Barbara. I get lazy, or maybe I just run out of time, or maybe there is still that last post I have to get up before week’s end. But I don’t comment enough, and I know that is a weakness of mine. Thanks! I needed that! G.

Grace Kleppin´s last blog post..Reframing the red roof

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Wow… the sheer number of comments on this blog post spells utter cathartic bliss for your readers! I agree wholeheartedly that commenting on blog posts that reach us… impact us in some way… is a great way to fine tune what it is we feel we received from reading them. Great stuff! Thanks so much for keeping these points in front of us!

Kevin Sandridge´s last blog post..Help Make Christmas (for) “Purdy” This Holiday Season

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