The more I attend events in my neighborhood, the more I grow to appreciate it. The charm of certain intersections and building becomes apparent, and it feels more like “home” every week. I guess it might as well, right?

I notice similar feelings related to web communities that play a role in my life as well. When I built websites for a living, I discovered the Thesis community and met some really great people, many of whom have grown to become close friends.

The same goes for the WordPress community. The WordCamp events I’ve attended have put faces to names, made the web smaller, and fostered a sense of community among those who would otherwise interact online.

I went to Mexico with a group of friends in January, and I grew much closer to each of them as a result. Almost too close (smile). And I recall work outings that have had a similar effect — the camaraderie can’t be replaced by trips to the snack machine or Starbucks.

Because of how far away from the city (center) I lived when I was in Atlanta, I never got as involved in some things as I otherwise would have. And despite the fact that I’m now in a city with eight million people, but I feel more connected than ever before.

I guess what I’m getting at is how important it is to close the laptop and interact with other humans in your community. Whatever you community is.