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safe. He denied this request, using socially-acceptable slang. "Hey man, that's not a cool thing to ask" he told them. Later, he coached his sister and many of his friends concerning similar tactics. Kids are never too young to learn. I have decided we need to give them more credit. Besides, prior to the Internet, my son was uncomfortable at school. Since the Internet, his confidence has grown and he is an excellent student who has the admiration of both teachers and peers. His writing skills have soared because, via on line chats, instant messages and submission sites, he has gained experience. His on line mentors have netted him valuable feedback. Feedback he responded to without the begrudging that might have been his reaction if I had said the same thing.

Switching engines here, (pun intended), we should also consider the obvious commercial advantages of the net. Business to business services abound, and, because companies are anxious to explain their services in detail, the Internet provides them far more room to do so than would a blurb in a magazine or a printed brochure.

Shopping on line, banking on line and bill paying, are but a portion of the features available to the personal user. Even if I don't feel secure enough to purchase with a credit card on line, window-shopping in cyber-space is a truly fun endeavor. It is reassuring to know that, because of the Internet, I am a better-informed consumer. I can access reviews about any product, and make an informed decision prior to purchasing. I get coupons and weekly sales brochures via email from my favorite retail stores. While perusing through them, I make a list on Word and print it. This is a real time-saver for me.

To be alive is to recognize that there are inherent dangers in all of life's endeavors. The advent of cars created menacing roads and vehicles. Safety measures became paramount, including warning signs that were cohesive throughout the country, seat belts, and eventually, air bags, (to name a few). We will likewise develop the tools necessary to address the vulnerabilities now-present on the net. I believe that today's youth, (because they are so familiar with this technology), will be the ones compelled to create safer and more-creative experiences for all of us in the future.

In the meantime, it is interesting to note that front porch gatherings are reemerging. There are nationwide clubs promoting the endeavor. And, how do we become part of this movement? Log onto the net! The Atlantic Highlands Porch Club can assist you in getting a FrontPorchClub going in your area: http://frontporchclub.com/fpc.

I think it is "totally" fair to say that the Internet presents a wonderful opportunity for people to connect with one another. It has become a completely viable apparatus wherein long-suppressed dreams and newly-emerging ones, can find expression. In fact, because of well- intentioned collaboration, many become reality. Sending pictures to family members, touching base with someone who moved away long ago; all forms of communication are improving, thanks to the advent of the Internet.

Learn more about this author, N. O. Tate.
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