During a recent discussion amongst friends, the topic of 'users' came up.  A friend of mine defined the term as those who attain a service or product from another without giving or at least offering a service or product in exchange.

I think we've all gone through this with someone - maybe even a few people.  Those people are sad in the sense that they don't realize that they're only getting a service but losing a friend.  With each day, we grow, we learn, and we mature - constantly bettering ourselves.  The other person might feel smart for a moment having gotten something done for 'free' but in the long run, they'll never benefit from the person you will become and the contacts you will eventually acquire.

The way I look at it is simple - we can not advance ourselves and our society without using AND giving back.  I'm a firm believer in the saying that it's take a village to raise a child.  In the same sense that I believe in a group of minds coming together to come up with one brilliant idea or strategy.  The greatest ideas from history have been birthed by one person's musing that were then shared and honed by others.

Our society is built upon people helping each other.  Be it hooking someone up with a contact of yours or helping proofread a friend's essay.  We help each other in a million different ways and I see no fault in it.  If we can all find ways to not only help ourselves but also help each other - where is the wrong in that?

If I have a service or talent that you feel could benefit you, I beg of you - USE ME.  Chances are once we get talking, there's probably something you can help me out with - funny how that works out right?  And even if you can't help me out immediately, I know that somewhere down the line when I might need your help, you'll be there.  The same goes for me - if you do something for me and I can't help you right then and there - know you can always email me later & I'll be more than happy to help a friend out!

With this being said, I guess that's the reason I'm so in love with Social Media.  I love the idea of being able to share and build upon not only my ideas but also others.  I am constantly looking for people to brainstorm and have a good, hearty conversation with.  Why shouldn't I?  Some people would think I'm a vulture, only looking for help but not willing to help in return.  Believe it or not, I am not like that.  I love being surrounded by smart, funny, crazy, odd (& the list goes on) people who can enrich my life so I wouldn't want to lose them by taking advantage.

So if you feel that I could possibly help or even contribute to an idea or project, let me know - I'd love to help! ;)

Remember - as people, we are sociable creatures - always talking and sharing with each other.  Why not share our talents and our minds to better ourselves?

And even if we can't benefit each other with a service, we can simply enjoy the company of a good friend and relish in one of the most precious things - good conversation...