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Online communities have been around since private individuals were able to get online (usually with a 3K or 12K modem). In the beginning, you could only talk with people who had the same ISP (Internet Service Provider) that you did. Some of these ISPs are no longer around, but the groups and the friendships formed there still exist.

These private communities have evolved along with the technology into places where people share pictures, audio, and video. Now email groups, forums, blogs, You Tube, MySpace and other sites have members from all over the world. Whatever your interest, you can find a group of like-minded folks online. Classmates, service groups, people who served in the military, co-workers, and people who have never met have formed online communities. You can use these communities to touch base with old friends or meet new people who share your interests.

Some groups share tips and tricks for their professions or hobbies. I belong to one mystery writer's group. I'm sure the discussions there have landed us on every government list there is. It's somewhat scary how fast you can get the answers to questions like "what poison could I use that wouldn't leave a trace in an autopsy?" or "how much C4 would it take to blow up a McDonald's?" It's a good thing that we all realize that this is only fiction and that a lot of folks enjoy the books that are the result of our research.

If you can't sleep, with online communities, there's always someone awake. With members all over the world, time becomes irrelevant. You can ask a question, and then go to bed. In the morning you'll have your answer.

In online communities, you can talk to your idols or make lifelong friends. You never know who might answer a question you ask. I remember in the early days of online groups. I was talking with and asking questions of one of the fathers of the early technology. I hope he didn't know how awe-struck I was.

If someone in the group doesn't know the answer, chances are good that they know someone who does. It's amazing the vast amount of knowledge that the Internet brings together.

Before you start to write, you can line up your resources. Or you can start writing and put out an emergency call for help. Both methods work with online groups.
Whatever your interests, become involved with a group of people with similar interests. You'll feel at home immediately.

The Internet has truly made the world a small place.

Learn more about this author, Lynn Jordan.
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