You always add value - at least to those who care about what you think. You have always been a good source for me for a second thought on some piece of technology. The only problem I have with you is that so much is coming and I simply don't have the time to consume all your content! Don't let yoursef make down.
RBA
· 2 years ago
It may sound odd to say "I'm happy for you" considering you sound so depressed, but I actually am, just not for you being depressed but for taking a break.
You don't think you're passionate? Heck, if you're not passionate, I don't know anyone who is. Your sin might actually be that you're too passionate about things that perhaps don't matter that much to most people. Now it's time to (also) be passionate about other things, right? Good for you!
Enjoy your family and especially that little one that's coming. Sooner than you think I think you'll be missing logging into your Wordpress account :-)
Matthew McVickar
· 2 years ago
Good work. Stepping back and having that sort of realization is an amazing, healthy thing to do. I'm glad you're taking this approach; it says a lot. Keep up the good work and keep on working to change the world for the better.
When you come back, tell us what you've learned in your time away about doing just that, and let us know how we can help.
Thank you. :-)
Gary Short
· 2 years ago
Hey take it easy Scoble, when your new baby arrives, it'll put everything into perspective for you - that's the thing that'll get you back adding value! :-)
erwin blom
· 2 years ago
Scoble, you ad value to my internet!
Krish
· 2 years ago
Dude, you are one A-List blogger who goes beyond your blog to add value to users. But you definitely need a break. Take off and have some good family time. You deserve it.
financialaidpodcast
· 2 years ago
You and Chris Brogan had very different experiences at Gnomedex. Maybe see what he got out of it that you didn't, and vice versa. There's a lesson in there, I think.
Good on you, Robert! I think it's a healthy thing to take some time away from all the madness, breathe some real fresh air, see some real people face to face and talk about something non-technology related.
It's likely to strike all sorts of new fresh ideas, and give you a chance to decompress, so that can't be bad.
Enjoy the break from the net nutters...
George Black
· 2 years ago
Good luck with your break, Robert. I look forward to your rejuvenated return!
R
· 2 years ago
Good luck with the break Robert, spending time with your family - both new and old really - shows you what the *really* important things are.
Robert Scoble
· 2 years ago
Thanks everyone.
Financialaid: I just read Chris Brogan's blog. I don't think we had all that different a Gnomedex. In fact, sounds like we reached much the same conclusion. I do admit I didn't enjoy Robert Steele's speech, though. I thought it was dreadful. It did make me think, though, mostly about how I could be a better speaker. :-)
And with that, I'm out of here.
Willem
· 2 years ago
It needs courage to make a decision like this and you show courage! Though I'll miss your thoughts I respect your decision. By sharing the reasons with us I hope others will start thinking about what they did and should'nt. Thus you still improve our world and add value! Thanks, take your time and hope to see you back soon!
Brett Nordquist
· 2 years ago
It's hard to imagine you getting much out of a conference where you seemed to spend most of your time in the hall. If I were Chris and you were my friend, I'd be offended.
paul
· 2 years ago
You do need to spend more time with Maryam, she's going to be very busy over the next three years.
Thank-you for not telling us Milan has his own page on Facebook with 2600 friends.
Marc Canter coole-O, he enjoys his children without ever having to twitter them.
Robert Scoble
· 2 years ago
Brett: I attended five sessions. It's my job to network with people. I can watch the sessions online. I can't have hallway conversations with people at home.
Now I know I'll never attend one of your conferences cause you have no clue about where the real value of conferences is.
They videotape the sessions for a reason. Anyway, I'm outta here. Gotta stop visiting Wordpress. Sigh. I'm such an addict.
Paul: Marc might not Twitter his daughters but he talks about them in his video. And Milan can't join Facebook until he's in High School. Learned that lesson already.
Rom
· 2 years ago
Hi Scoble,
Heck, your blog is part of my Google Reader RSS feed - if I didn't find value from your insights, I could have dumped it after the first few articles.
Anyway, blood is thicker still and I commend you for taking a break and spending more time with your family. I know how it is to prep for a new baby (heck, I already have four!) so take as much rest as you can...
Looking forward to the revved up return. :)
Cheers!
David Bell
· 2 years ago
Robert, to me your blog is a breath of fresh air. I hope you enjoy your time away and look forward to your return.
Dawn D.
· 2 years ago
You're on too many platforms. It's not good for you or for your audience.
Maybe you should also figure out what "friend" means and not use the term so loosely and cavalierly. Nobody can claim thousands of friends without ultimately making half of them enemies.
IOW, you need to get much better about setting boundaries for yourself and making them clear to others, IMO.
sean percival
· 2 years ago
Getting into a massive comment fight really drained you huh? I would say, and same with the jason/dave thing that sometimes personal squabbles should be offline (or at least done via email). Its tough when business is intertwined in that I know, but there needs to be some level or separation.
Don't get me wrong, it makes great reading sometimes but generally distracts from the larger and more important issues.
Also read my blog about gnomes and trolls (above).
mauritsfondse
· 2 years ago
Hi Robert,
Your videos add a great deal of value! At the moment, I find 'watching' info more exciting than 'reading' it. That's why I'm gonna do 'videoblogs' too, while I am in NY in September, talking to people in the music scene/business. I'll have a Kyte Channel on my blog: http:newyorkstateofmind.wordpress.com
I copied that idea from you so thanx very much.
Frank Roche
· 2 years ago
Robert, in the words of Plato, the unexamined life is not worth living. I think you're more introspective and connected than most. Taking a breather and gaining perspective is always good no matter what one does. You gush energy, and sometimes it's good to recharge the batteries. Of course, we'll all be here on your return.
Cheers, man. Keep up the good fight. And breathe.
aaron78
· 2 years ago
You add lots of value, I have learnt a lot about the new media world from you or the links you provide, and I greatly admire your conversational style.
As someone above mentions though, maybe you're speading yourself too thin at the mo. In this hyperconnected world, the slightest slight (sorry!) can take on apocalyptic proportions. And when you're as connected as you are - across so many platforms - you are going to encounter a lot of hostility.
Having said that, I do find sometimes that you take criticism very personally and I think that's because 1/ you are very passionate, 2/ you are so knowledgeable about the industry that maybe you find it difficult to accept your views might not be universally accepted, 3/ you are stressed because you work too hard and have a kid on the way.
It's great that you're having a break. Concentrate on what's really important for a while - family, health and well-being.
Looking forward to learning more from you when you're back.
Vi ses (as they say here in Denmark!)
Sam I Am
· 2 years ago
Stop replying to comments mate and ENJOY some time away from blogging! You'll never win them all. You are probably the only blogger whose blog I really enjoy reading from your side of the world. The rest is all copying each other and saying the same thing over and over again. Plus, for us techies outside of the US, most of it is worthless gossip about a 'world' that is incredibly small and closed off (kind of paradoxal when you think of it). And of course when all the gossip is about some kids 'wining' at each other over spilled milk, you'll have a much more enjoyable time following an argument like that at home with your own kids! :)
Enjoy the new bub; kids are the best!
Steven Livingstone
· 2 years ago
Yeah - all too easy to get mad on the web - i had to take a deep breath when the OpenID guys started to flame me about my openid.org stuff.
Your kids are a real balancer tho' - there is nothing more important and 5 minutes with them and you won't be mad anymore - being mad when with your kids is horrible, so you drop it.
I enjoy your blogs - particularly those where you interview or simplly give insight to new ideas. Hope that continues. Best Wishes.
martinpluss
· 2 years ago
Hi,
In Sydney, Australia we have a reasonable radio program in the evening on 2GB. A few months ago they had in an "expert" on the next new thing in retail sales. He said the next big thing is "Adding Value".
He talked about the little things that are not necessarily the "core" business but are the things that make a difference such as the coffee shop in the book store, the lounge chairs in departmental stores with the sport on TV....
After a while these value added things overtake the core business of the operation and become indispensible to the success of the business.
I am in education and try to add value and you helop me do this.
Enjoy your break and see you on the otherside.
cheers Martin
Prokofy Neva
· 2 years ago
If the Podcast people weren't going to fire you and you weren't going to quit, why did you get so torqued, Robert? And you really are getting way torqued and you need to sit quietly and ask yourself that. They must have...probed a nerve, which maybe isn't really about actually being fired or quitting but maybe just needed to nest or something on your part, and displacing that angst. But geez, Valleywag is nihilism and evil, ignore them.
And even that old saw about "taking more time with your family" is only good as far as it goes -- but you don't have to overdose it.
The planet has, what, 8 billion people that go and have families and find jobs and work and have fun and live and die. It's more than fine if a few people don't do it exactly that way, and do something different.
That fellow's daughter actually has to make her own world better, and take responsibility for it in due course, and not expect Scoble to make it better for you. You can only do so much. Isn't making your own world better part of it too? Must it always be about altruism which you can't live up to anyway?
I can only say, keep learning and being excited and talking about technology, and playing with it and experimenting it and making lots of friends to show it to. It's the best thing in the world -- and you're doing it. People who find it hard to understand what they can get out of Facebook or Twitter, I tell them go and read Scoble, mine his friends, watch how they do it and what groups they join, that will make it interesting for you, and it works.
If you need to go recharge batteries, recharge, but no need to take dramatic positions like "Akh, I am ceasing to read all blogs, jamais, never more, nikogda!" Let them pile up a little in Google reader, who's to know? Then obsessively read them at 3 am during feedings, it's fine, it's all good.
Remember, sleep when the baby sleeps! Sleep *now* in advance because you will definitely not be sleeping in a bit.
Bruce Keener
· 2 years ago
Robert, you are an inspiration to just about every blogger on the planet. I can appreciate that you need a break, though, and that you may come back with a slightly different approach. But, I have no doubt that whatever you do going forward will continue to show your passion and love for blogging. I look forward to continued inspiration from you.
searchengines
· 2 years ago
It is perfectly fine to get guest bloggers for those periods when it is not easy to blog.
Get a list of who posses those traits that are desirable in bloggers - and invite them to guest blog.
This not only adds a dimension to the blog, but adds perspective.
In terms of getting depress about the unfairness of life - it is a waste of time. Life on Earth is EXTREMELY fleeting for any Human Being and tomorrow is never a guarantee for ANYONE.
It is best to never waste the precious seconds of life allowing the evil from others to steal time from tomorrow.
Howard
· 2 years ago
Robert - Enjoy some time away. I echo the sentiments of your true 'friends' and fans above. Your blog is arguably one of the most influential and ''affecting'' on the blogosphere. I'll miss you while you rest and can't wait to pick up with you when you return. I'm already one of the ''4400'' (smile) so I know I'll stay there with you as well. Peace and blessings to you, Maryam, Patrick and Milan.
Mike McBride
· 2 years ago
Robert,
The thing about blogging is that, like everything else, it's just a tool to be used for good or for bad. A hammer in the hands of a master carpenter can create great things. It can also be used to bash in someone's skull. The hammer itself is just the tool, how it's used is up to the person swinging it, and people are fallible.
Some people truly try to use blogging as a way to share information and ideas that are important to them, and their audience, some verbally bash each other over the head, for various reasons not the least of which is that gets a whole lot of attention. The easiest way to get a whole lot of people talking about your blog, is to use the tool to bash people, especially people like you who have a pretty large audience. That takes almost zero talent, anyone can do it.
If you want to add value to the world your kids are growing up in, then use the tool to share information and ideas that are important to you. Instead of spending all your time chasing down the next "cool" thing, (which I understand is already your day job) so that you can be first to the story, take the time to understand why something is useful, what it makes possible and how that makes life better.
Blogging, used as a proper tool, makes life better by allowing anyone to publish and share their ideas with the world. It allows me to learn something new, and immediately share it with an audience, whether it be about a new service, a solution to a problem, a good restaurant, etc. Search out the bloggers that consistently do that, and strive to be one yourself. Let the skull bashers be what they are, where they are. Quit giving them attention they don't deserve.
That's my .02 anyway, from someone with a long history of depression and a long list of tools to cope with it. :)
Craig
· 2 years ago
Robert, Everyone needs a vacation from work, so enjoy your time off. I will be looking forward to what you have to say, as it appears many others will too. I totally enjoy your videos, and am greatfull that some one is recording, as you call them, "the gray beards". keep up the great work when you return. Craig
chrisbrogan
· 2 years ago
Robert- much support to this premise. A blog is a tool. The conversation is what matters. I know you know this more than most, and that you understand that the Internet isn't the only platform. Not that you're leaving, but that you see it as one simple small box on the path to everything else you're doing.
Have fun storming the castle!
A.Mullin.
· 2 years ago
I am not a Silicon valley insider, I am just a guy who loves to read about tech stuff so I know what new gadgets (web-based or otherwise) I want to take advantage of. Ultimately, your blog has given a guy who has a broad interest in everything geeky, but no expertise or connections to the valley to learn about the latest "shiny things" out there. I feel closer to the greatest minds in the industry through your portal (including your link blog).
I am glad you are taking time for you and your family, but don't let the haters bring you down. If anything it has only made people more fond of what you do. Just look at all of these great comment posts above and below.
I don't keep a blog because I am not exactly sure I have anything new to say. That is the only criteria I see for what you and the rest of the "sphere" does. And you, sir, have lots of interesting and new things to say. Keep on talkin' cause we are listening.
Lilyhill
· 2 years ago
Something I learned many years ago -
"Never wrestle in the mud with a pig. You both get dirty, but the pig likes it."
People are people, no matter what the medium of communication. Sometimes angels, sometimes jerks. So just do what I'm sure you'll teach your kids to do. Bless the angels. Ignore the jerks.
shel israel
· 2 years ago
Robert, You are right. Holding a 19-day-old baby is cathartic and puts the meaning of Twitter in real perspective. Instead of dinner, why don't we just go walk on the beach together. It's time we kicked back and walked and talked.
1389ad
· 2 years ago
Illegitimi non carborundum: don't let the bastards wear you down!
Gareth
· 2 years ago
Robert -
Some feedback from someone who has been reading your blog for 18 months or so. Don't take it personally, I do enjoy reading it!
1) Take a step back now and then and see the wider picture, rather through the Silicon Valley prism 2) You don't have to latch onto the latest and greatest thing (twitter, iphone, facebook etc) all the time and bang on about them with the intensity that you do, sometimes it can be a bit annoying. 3) It's obvious that you're passionate about this stuff (which is good) but sometimes that gives the impression that it clouds your judgement somewhat. Stop and think now and again before you post! 4) Don't take things too personally, and don't try and reply to so many posts
Enjoy the break - but I bet you're not away for long, if at all...
Johnny Sutherland
· 2 years ago
Taking your deserved break - you've earned it. All the best when the new arrival comes.
Wally
· 2 years ago
Love reading your blog. Good luck with the new baby.
Jez
· 2 years ago
Robert-
Take some enjoyed time off!! I expect I will still see you taking over my Facebook front page though :D
Enjoy! your blogs gonna stay in my Reader.. waiting for you to return!
Jez
Paul
· 2 years ago
I do hope you find some time away refreshing.
I will offer up a few cents worth of advice, after reading your blog almost daily for about 4 years.
Perhaps it may be benificial (and add value to your own life) to separate your work/public self a bit more from your personal private life--not so much in how you talk about it on your blog, but in how you live your life. Your son and wife are already totally intertwined into your professional life, that I don't think you ever get a break. And then it becomes a viscous circle because you lose a bit of perspective and sometimes come off like this is the way everybody lives--wrapped up writing and reading blogs, living in Facebook and Twitter, and video taping everything, instead of living it. When shit happens like this week, you have no where to go, because you are already there (Same for WIner).
All that being said, do let us know when Milan arrives and enjoy that to the fullest. It may be OK to video tape that and write about it later, but don't let it get in the way of actually being there. Hopefully your break will be the regeneration you are looking for. Good luck with it and congratulaitons in advance to you and Maryam.
maliha11
· 2 years ago
Congrats .. hope you guys have lots of fun with adorable new baby ... try and cherishing every moment.
maliha
ofxuy
· 2 years ago
Its good to take a break every once in a while.
Tomi Itkonen
· 2 years ago
Physical exercise, fresh air, healthy food, sleep, offline. In a regular manner.
I'd think that in your situation a hiking trip to Yosemite with your son and a camera would work wonders. Or is it too hot for that there in California? Then off to the beach...
Alberto Lopez
· 2 years ago
Robert,
I spoke to you momentarily in the hallway at Gnomedex while you were telling Marc Canter that you are into "walled gardens, baby!".
Anyways, remember what I told you about being perceived at a "thermometer" of *what's next* or the *bleeding edge*. A lot of people turn to your blog for just that reason, so there is a whole lot of worth in that.
Take some time, step away and recharge. Come back with a new perspective and just keep on keeping on and being the same ol 'Scobleizer we've all come to get the latest in tech news from.
Cheers, Robert. It will and does get better.
Keep the faith.
Dan Greenfield
· 2 years ago
Nice meeting you at Gnomedex, and enjoy your time of reflection. Perhaps, you can consider the value of starfish. More than a metaphor, they are really cool to look at. The challenge is to never lose one's childlike sense of wonderment. The arrival of a new baby is a great way to keep it.
Amanda Chapel
· 2 years ago
But where shall we go? What shall we do? Who'll lead us? You can't create all this Naked Conversation crap and then just leave us here. I thought the life preservers were supposed to be for the women and children.
- Amanda
Edwin Khodabakchian
· 2 years ago
Robert,
Given your intensity, it is normal and healthy to unplug from time to time. I am an avid reader of your blog. It is not always easy to put works about what once like but here it goes.
I like your passion, transparency and truthfulness. A few of your post about Facebook being a marketing platform and the reason you "friend" people is to able to reach them later on which started to raise questions about your truthfulness.
I like your content. Try to focus on producing less but higher quality. No need to multiplex on 50 channels: blog, podtech, twitter, facebook, kyte, etc.
I come here because I want to get 10-20 minute of insanely good developer content. You have proven that you know who to do this. It is just a matter of focus (and I understand focus is not always easy for someone you is always experimenting and looking for the next big thing).
-Edwin
Brent
· 2 years ago
Disappointing News Robert, but I totally understand. Take the time you need or just scale back the blogging to give you more time with the family.
In the meantime, you will be missed! I always look forward to your blog posts and I'll be waiting for your return.
Brent
JohnT
· 2 years ago
Your videos lately have been some of the best I have ever seen. Period. You are contributing much. Thank you for exposing Tom Rolander to the world. Please keep up the blog at least to update us on your videos. I can't possibly watch all of them but I do look at your rss feed in Google Reader (j,j,j,k,j,j,k,v) before deciding which ones to watch. Keep up the good work. Focusing and realizing things about your work is not something to stay depressed about: your product is better for it!
Emon
· 2 years ago
You deserve a break, Robert. I've always found it mind-boggling how much you get done each day. There's no denying your passion is in tune with your work. It's hard and you do it with a smile on your face. You define an ideal blogger, not just a tech blogger.
Sorry about the depressing news around the blogosphere about you. I say f*** them! Enjoy your break. :)
Mr W
· 2 years ago
Robert,
You deserve a break, but if you're looking for a project to sink your teeth into, and to (just possibly) fire up your juices, try reading some of the great edubloggers to see the problems that schools everywhere are having in adopting and embedding the new tech that you have championed for so long. People like Christan Long, Ewan McIntosh (ask Shel Israel about him), Will Richardson, David Warlick, Stephen Downes and Chris Sessums could probably give you a fresh perspective and way of looking at so much of what you take for granted as a 'tech-head'.
Goodness knows that education could use someone with your skills and knowledge base to help gt things moving a little quicker!
Whatever you decide, all the best with the new kid on the block and if you don't mind, I'm going to keep you in my RSS feed just in case you feel like saying something! ;)
Colin Henderson
· 2 years ago
Robert ... what sets you apart is your willingness to to address issues head on, so you will get some people come back at you. However you at least address issues. The people and one in particular '/' who choose to use personal attacks which add zero value to the discussion, merely remind me why I long ago unsubscribed. Take care, enjoy, reflect and come back soon.
McD
· 2 years ago
“how am I making her world better?”
By getting people to listen to each other. All good things come from open minds. You're work here is always about listening and giving people access to a community of open minds.
Can you do better? Sure. You consistently seem to get better.
(and I think you've been a better father than credit yourself... ask Patrick and see what he thinks... unless, of course, he's a teenager... then wait 10 years for a fair answer... otherwise he'll use the opportunity to get a new Mac.)
PS> Do you think you might be able to get Jason and Dave to listen to each other and agree that:
1. Jason is motivated by more than JUST the money. 2. Dave can't view every service's value by his ability to script it...
And all conferences are NOT unconferences. Some are opportunities to promote: ideas, movements and (yes) your struggling start-up. Go figure.
They embarassed each other... Who will be the bigger man in all this? Scoble. Good luck with that.
Webomatica
· 2 years ago
Better you take a break and return after than burn out completely and have to quit blogging against your will. Thumbs up for being honest with us (the readers) and yourself about feeling like it's time for a break.
francine hardaway
· 2 years ago
As you know, Robert, I love and respect you and consider you a good friend. I think you are going through a big period in your life with a baby coming, and you are also taking responsibility for Podtech. It's too much. I saw you rev up during Gnomedex and I'm very proud of you for realizing it yourself :-) Do I sound like your mother? I didn't mean to...
steve garfield
· 2 years ago
Hi Robert,
On a technical note, you say, "You can see her in this Kyte video that I shot with my Nokia N95 (which is why the video is a bit small and blurry)."
That is not the reason that the video is "small and blurry."
When I shoot video, I use the primary camera on the N95 and choose 640x480 at 30 fps. The videos come out big and clear.
On that post you can view the original 640x480 30 fps footage.
What settings were you using and which camera lens, the primary or secondary?
Thanks, --Steve
Raymond
· 2 years ago
Hi Robert,
The only thing which counts is that you're making this choice at this moment in life cause you FEEL it's the right thing to do for YOU...this despite the fact that 'the rest of the world' thinks your content is still oh-so great...when you don't feel this way yourself, you're loosing energy instead of gaining energy from blogging/twittering/etc. No one will/can ever blame you for choosing for yourself.
I am sure it sets an example for others...sit down, take a deep breath and look at things that really matter in life, it is one of the most important and most overlooked treasures in life...I'm 100% with you man! It's actually a phase I went through earlier this year and has has had much to do with taking back control over your own life...try it, do it, I can recommend it to everyone! Let life be.
Will see you back blogging when the time is right for you, trust me...we're all very patient people here.
Take care and (always!) enjoy life!
Patrick Dodds
· 2 years ago
Have a good break Robert - look forward to a refreshed return if that is what you decide to do, which I hope you will.
Patrick Dodds
· 2 years ago
Mangled grammar above - best wishes is what I meant!
Chris Quijote
· 2 years ago
Walk away for a while and have a life. The web is full of idiots and shallow-mongers - enjoy your family time. Unfortunately people with good hearts always lose to nasty and petty minded people and commenters because the cynics sit in dark holes waiting for folks to fall in and plunge down to their level. Take a break and start something fresh so you don't fall down there.
Steve Elbows
· 2 years ago
As one of the people who gave you cruel advice recently on the yahoo videoblogging group, Id like to comment.
I am sorry to hear that recent times have been so draining. I hope your rest is good and you have many amazing revelations and find a new way to harness your passion in ways that you find fulfilling and useful for the world.
One of the things I love about the net, blogs, forums etc, is the ability to converse, to let go and be totally honest. Im not sure the authoratitive matters so much to me, or at least I like the potential for there to be balance on the net, the non-authoritative have their place in stopping the authoritative ones from getting too far away from reality?
Unfortunately its impossible to escape the human side of this, most people cant help but take things personally. If you absorb all the negative stuff on the net as well as the positive, its a bit like the horros that would happen if you woke up in some twilight zone world where you could read the minds of what everyone around you is thinking.
Or a completely differnt way of looking at it is that humans are still essentially tribal in nature, and this has all sorts of implications for humans on the net & social networking and stuff, not least in terms of scale. As an outsider Ive never understood how people who do a lot of networking, can maintain real connections with so many people. And Im not sure the technology always helps, maybe it just encourages one to push the size of their tribe to undrealistic heights?
Anyway, I won't try to second guess what revelations and new found passions you may encounter whilst resting from what is turning out to be a fairly negative depressing and irritable 2007 for this particular side of the blogosphere. I will take a pop at companies and people on specific issues when I think they are out of line, but the whole podtech thing is turning into an ugly vendetta that some are enjoying, and whilst I cant help watching, I dont like it. As an outsider not even on the same continent, I dont really know whether any of the negative energy on this is caused by some fundamental ugliness somewhere within podtech itself, Id guess there is something sick somewhere. But regardless of what any internal realities might be, it doesnt seem to justify the level of negative blogpress you are getting lately, some are clearly looking forward to podtech's demise with some relish.
Oh well, life is a funny thing. I had my own personal revelation/spiritual reboot last night when looking at that lovely meteor storm in the sky.
Still I cant help but say that if you want the internet to help people get smarter not stupider, you can play a part in that, but there are many paths that look like the way to cleverville that actually lead to same old depressive human behaviour alley. Im trapped in the alley because I am too negative and never do anyything. But I thought I saw you or perhaps just your shadow there, because of the way positive commercial PR is not something Id likely think is likely to lead humanity towards a more knowledgable future, quite the opposite.
Joe Ranft
· 2 years ago
I think you are being a bit hard on yourself. I've always found your blog to be very positive.
Eric Engleman
· 2 years ago
Thanks for the honest update.
I hope you read this.
A. Don't give up. Lots of people read you and think about what you've written.
B. If necessary, go stealth and do an invite only club. That way you can focus on driving your conversation with people who actually tune in.
C. Remember the New York Daily News quote, "Love me, hate me, but always read me." The others just have sour grapes. They wish they were Scoble.
Take some time to rest. See you soon.
ted hu
· 2 years ago
Take some time off. Life's too short and priceless. Especially to worry about trolls and people who only know how to bring people down to make their tiny selves feel worthy, however inhumane they become.
It's not just you feeling blase. I've felt the same way for a while now, some 7.5 years ago. I rarely read blogs these days, nor watch prime-time TV, etc., anymore, it's the same ol' crud, recycled. Americans these days rarely think and do, rather way too gossipy and self-absorbed, living off fruits of past generations as did the British, French, Spanish, and empires before. It's just being human and how things are since time immemorial. Complacency and contempt, there is a large gap between what we aspire to be and what we're capable of at a given point in time of our evolution.
Right now though, I think what you're tired of, at root, is that there is no leadership, in both political and technology spheres, and hence a lack of direction, a debasement and disrespect of ideas and reasoning. Today, American society and its various forms of dialog, what little authentic conversations that remain, has been mostly replaced by shouting and blaring sound-bites, blogging included, basically a race to the bottom. As such there's not much interesting to report as it's the same ol' cookie cut content and politics and themes rebroadcast endless times, and in the end, with no real care in the world except perhaps to maximize eyeballs reached and ad rates for the few who happily exploit the masses with little consideration what the future will bring because of it.
It's high-minded and respectable to assume that blogging and positive change can come from the masses per se. Yet given that we're pretty predictable bell-curved mortals, it always seems that true progress most of the time starts at the top. And hence, here we are and go.
hugh macleod
· 2 years ago
I met Steve on my last visit to Redmond. Wonderful guy. We talked a lot more about music, Robert Fripp, love and sharing than we talked about Web 2.0.
The interesting story is not about the hammer and nails. The interesting story is about the houses they build. Menlo Park forgets that sometime.
[Steve, if you're reading this, Congrats on your newborn]
Hugs and Smiles to all....
Nickie
· 2 years ago
By actually taking time away, and thinking about value, and sharing that you're doing so, you just added value. I may not always agree with your point of view, but I learn a lot from your posts. You will be missed.
Jerome Paradis
· 2 years ago
A bit of time off is always a good idea when stressed. Enjoy your time at home, read a book, take a walk and enjoy life.
Take care of yourself.
And when you come back, keep some quality time for you away of the stress. It works for me.
Joe Caruso
· 2 years ago
Robert,
I'm not sure why you're down on yourself. So you expressed some anger. The bottom line is that anger is an emotion that is suppressed too much in our politically-correct society. I enjoy your videos, but I'm not counting on you to save the world. :)
As long as you make your family happy, that's your only true responsiblity. I'll leave you with a great quote by Bill Cosby.
" I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody."
Christopher Welle
· 2 years ago
Hi Robert,
I've been watching your posting on the web and on Facebook, not to mention Twitter for the past month. It seemed you were building up to something. Trying to get in as much work before the birth. Your damn good at what you do and add value to things you are doing.
The question I think you need to ask is, Is there balance in what your doing? Is all aspects of your life being attended to or are you favoring one right now like paying too much attention to one child before a extremely long trip, because you think you will neglect it in the near future?
From your post above and the streaming of information on the internet from you in the past months it seems this might be the issue. But thats just my observation from this side of the net.
I hope you relax. Play with your son, cuddle with your wife, talk to your new child, take time for yourself. Sometimes you just need to declare internet bankruptcy once in a while.
When your ready to come back, I and many others will be ready to read, view, listen to what you create.
Chris
WHW
· 2 years ago
I frequently wrestle with the same thoughts. I talk to friends who are teachers, police, and firemen. My wife stays home with the kids....and I am at work early morning to early evening. Then, back at it as they fall asleep. I feel like I am missing so much.
Hang in there. I think the thoughts from most to just enjoy life is right on target.
Megan Kahn
· 2 years ago
I met with TeresaV today and she shared this entry with me and I am a blog post virgin but this/you moved me so here goes.
I keft my old company to be with my baby and taking a break was the best thing I ever did. Two weeks later my baby girl was decorating the Christmas tree with me at 11 am on a Tuesday morning when I would have been at work worried about some interview that I was hosting for a tech exec. As she walked forward towards the tree holding the ornament in her tiny chubby hands trying desperately not to break it - my life changed.
So go in peace, remember what/who you work for - it is not for all of these kind and a few unkind people listed above me, it is not for the people at Gnomedex or any other dex it is for those who live under your roof. Best with the baby and perhaps someday when I actually have a Facebook page we might be friends.
Marty Poulin
· 2 years ago
Taking time off to reflect on what is important and re-prioritize your life is crucial.
Th world is changing at an ever increasing rate and unless we filter it with what we find important we can quickly become overwhelmed.
Relax, think, enjoy come again fresh. We will all still be here.
Best,
-Marty
Tina
· 2 years ago
I'm sorry to say I haven't read your blog much. I stumbled upon it while reading articles online at BBC News today. Good luck to you, and enjoy your family and your new baby :) It's refreshing to me to see those that are introspective as I hope I am myself...and that try to do good for others.
Noah Grabowitz
· 2 years ago
Predictions, re: Scoble @ August 13, 2007:
1. Baby Suri (and other celebrity babies without a blog) will hold a candle a patronizing but pathetic candle to this Milan, who, by the way, should cut the crap and just get out of his hiding place already. My patience for him is waning and he needs to get his act together.
2. Robert will make a friend in the next twenty minutes. 2a. Aforementioned friend will have potential to be a Friend but the over/under is 4:1.
3. Robert will make a nemesis, borderline-enemy within the next 20 hrs (terms defined by Klosterman in a moment of brevity, relatively speaking, of course). 3a. This nemesis will tell his Friends that Robert is his friend.
4. Robert's blog has a 60% chance of being 4% worse by 5 p.m. tomorrow. 4b. 60% of a-list bloggers will think this. 4% of them will say this. 100% of the 4 percenters will be universally praised by 100% dickheads.
5. My friends and I will use Robert's promise to not post tomorrow as fodder for idle, calorie burning conversation some time tomorrow evening (location TBA).
ב'עהצלכה חבר
virginmother
· 2 years ago
Taking your mind off the gossip by doing videos is a good idea. A good way to keep moving forward would be to delete those angry blog entries and fill them with more thoughts on Ball's baby. You can close the door on those negative emotions and open a new one... with NEW emotions. Do what you think is best.
seattlePI
· 2 years ago
but if not for your 3 mac jizm posts per day... where will i hear about mac news?
seriously, this is what happens when you live in the apple echo chamber for a month or two... as you have since going iphone insane.
best of luck on your recovery. i hope you start by tossing all apple-logod products into the nearest trash heap.
Junal
· 2 years ago
hey Scoble, hope you come back soon and start adding value to the internet world...
Rob
· 2 years ago
Good luck with the break, Robert. I've enjoyed every word. :-) When you come back, do it because it's fun. If you're having fun then you'll be enriching yourself and everyone around you. All the best.
Lurker #234,842
Meg
· 2 years ago
Robert
You are who (what?) you are. It can seem like "all or nothing", but there HAS to be middle ground amongst it all, surely. Balance is the key. Be sure to share the secret when you find it :) Be happy
dan
· 2 years ago
Dude, you will be missed, but you know best when you need to take a break. We'll leave a light on for you, not to quote a hotel ad or anything intentionally.
Maria Varmazis
· 2 years ago
Cheers and all the best, Robert, on your well-deserved break. We'll be glad to welcome you back when you're ready. - Maria
Jay
· 2 years ago
Just do what u love. The rest dont matter. Take some time off. Do what u want, then come back and do what you want with 'YOUR' site. If anything at all.
Just dont let the 'bastards' grind u down to the point where it gets to u cause at the end of day what valley wag say or A'listers (who are they) will be just google web history the next day. What you held in your arms is improtant for the next day and the day after. That is the stuff that makes world changes.
oh and enjoy the peace and quiet before your new little one appears on the scene cause u wont have this time again probably not for another 18 years :-).
P.S Make Sure you got a ton of hard drives, SD memory cards, DVD's and a lot of bandwidth and $$$ for hosting cause once mini scoble arrives, you will be posting like crazy on flickr etc etc.
That is blogging
Chris
· 2 years ago
I just read this post for the first time.
"Anyway, have a great week and while I’m not blogging I’d love it if you left some ideas on things you’d like me to learn for when I get back."
I think you should quit blogging actually. 20 straight posts on facebook should have been the breaking point but you went on.
If you come back, don't blog as much, and make the posts quality posts rather than quantity. You said you were going to the gym, you obviously didn't and chose to keep compulsively blogging instead. I on the other hand did go to the gym and lost 20 pounds so far.
1 blog post per week with good content is better than 20 unedited raw videos that look like the subject took themselves with a handi-cam.
Well, there's my opinion. I bet you're sorry you asked for them now.
Chuck Olsen
· 2 years ago
Take good care, Robert. I wish you the best. We should all focus on making the world better (especially me!)
Robert, I have found much value in your various methods of posting be it tiwtter, blogging, vblogging, facebook, etc. You make sense and have opened my eyes to many things and technology that I might never have found. I always enjoy your posts but have also found it hard to keep up at times. I often wonder, how in the world does Scoble have so much time and energy to do everything that you seem to do in a day and then wish I had half that much! Anyway, everyone gets burned out and needs a break and by your post, it sounds like you're doing the right thing. Take care and I look forward following(not stalking) you once you return.
Charbax
· 2 years ago
We need a better way to filter blogs than RSS readers and Blog Search Engines. I hope for Digg that their upcomming Story Suggest feature will feature some good mathematics to filter the quality and give a good reason for people to spend time digging stories. I guess what I'm looking for is an algorithm like http://thoof.com that automatically filters my RSS feed readers list, I really think it can be done automatically, cause browsing through the complete combined waterfall mode of Google Reader is confusing.
Elena Lawrence
· 2 years ago
Hi, Robert. I have been enjoying your blog, and learning a lot. I got a such a kick out of your enthusiasm over the iPhone - it was as good as owning one myself. You are fun to read because of your passion. Take care. Best wishes, whatever you are doing.
Next post is on May 29th. Total "pondering" time? 2 days.
Aug 3 2006, "off the grid" on some boondoggle to Montana. Stays "off" a total of 2 days. Then on his way back, in a rare show of fortitude, he keeps his word and is off a week. Aug 9-13, 2006.
Dec 22, 2006, 11:12 am says in a post he is "off until Tuesday
Scoble's definition of week turns out to be 4 days.
I'm doubling down on this "break" lasting 4 days.
Chuck McGinley
· 2 years ago
Although I do not like the self loathing perspective of this post, I must add that your story about you and your son walking around with his new iPhone taking walking photo tours inspired me to do the same with my 7 year old daughter and we had a wonderful day. We plan to do it again at other locations. Her with her camera and me with mine.
So you do add value.
Chuck
Dawn D.
· 2 years ago
I've read here and there what people are saying about Robert and about this post, and I'd just like to add one thing to the conversation...
When blogging started, people were enthralled with its raw honesty, its "nakedness" as Robert's book well described it. It seemed so liberating. No stuffy "professionalism."
What people forgot, or never knew, is that professionalism wasn't created as an arbitrary set of rules imposed from above to squelch people's enjoyment of work. "Being professional" was created ad hoc, so that people could work together effectively. Professional standards of personal conduct were imposed to to stop tension, upset, anger, drama, even violence.
Now all that protection is gone, at least online.
In a perfect world, bloggers could be as open and free as they want to be and as most of their audience enjoys them being, but we all know that this isn't a perfect world. There will always be the hateful few who go out of their way to cause upset, which leads to anger and more upset, and around and around we go.
The Wild, Wild West had to be tamed by force because too many people were getting hurt. I contend that if we don't want rules imposed on us, then we should each impose standards of conduct on ourself. If you don't like the words "being professional" then let's think of some other way to describe this time-tested standard of personal conduct and teach people what the heck it really means.
Here's a down and dirty list of what being professional means: 1) Do not manipulate others with dishonesty 2) Keep your word and follow through on commitments 3) Be respectful but don't act too friendly, unless you truly mean to make the person a real friend 4) Avoid getting too personal 5) Don't take advantage of people, but make every transaction or encounter as win-win as possible.
Heaven knows I've been far from professional online at times. Many times. I for one am rethinking that. Despite the stuffy, old-fashioned name, professionalism is a good standard to keep.
I'm going to work to figure out the line for #4.
elissa gjertson
· 2 years ago
it's all empty and meaningless... it's the stories we add to things that create the discussion, the angst, the depression ... but: letting go? that is enlightenment. and, if you ask me, the core of 2.0 ... no more facetious "control" ... no worry that the truth will not come out eventually ... no need to try to force-fit a single thing. we create our futures, not react to them. anyone thinking differently, you gotta strain your neck to see these days ... anyone worth seeing that is.....
Kris Olson
· 2 years ago
Hi Robert,
I have read or scanned many of the 102 notes above. They are largely really supportive, caring and heartfelt. Your writing about Steve Ball's daughter and your coming baby resonated with people and touched them.
I am reminded of an article I read last night in People magazine(ok, I confess, it's an escape! but hey, it's easy to read at the gym) about Elizabeth Edwards: "We spend our lives weaving a tapestry of sorts. The largest ribbons are our family and closest friends. The other people we weave in are what gives our life its texture and its strength. And when life takes a wrong turn -- as it will for all of us -- that tapestry becomes a blanket we wrap around us."
I think your broader community here is offering a very warm and protective blanket. Take that support and whatever time you need to find out what really matters to you now, and enjoy your baby.
Kris Olson
· 2 years ago
Robert,
I am impressed by the level of understanding and support these 102 comments above mine show. I think what you wrote about Steve Ball's daughter and your unborn son resonated with people, brought us all back to what really matters.
From a new chaper to her book, by Elizabeth Edwards: "We spend our lives weaving a tapestry of sorts. The largest ribbons are our family and closest friends. The other people we weave in are what gives our life its texture and its strength. And when life takes a wrong turn-- as if will for all of us -- that tapestry becomes a blanket we can wrap around us. As I have so many times."
So take this beautiful blanket of understanding that people are creating, take as long as you want to find out what you really want to do, and enjoy and love your new baby.
Whu?
· 2 years ago
1) Don't risk connecting with another human being 2) Avoid passion; be moderate 3) Make rules and follow them 4) Don't be spontaneous 5) Be serious at all times
madame l.
· 2 years ago
@Dawn D:
4) a void pretending to get too personal.
andyfox1979
· 2 years ago
well.. ok
andyfox1979
· 2 years ago
I appreciate the sentiment. I take back all the bad things i've said.
I write a somewhat nasty blog but I think the point of it all, like most cynicism, is that life is pretty good theres just a lot of bad stuff that gets in the way sometimes.
I think it's best to remember that being cynical is healthy, but don't lose the plot. Be selective about what you're cynical about.
Be cynical about a site like valleywag for instance, where underneath its rebel tone, it's very much apart of the austere "personality" of the silicon valley itself.
But its necessary. With all the egos and sycophants in the silicon valley and in tech itself, it's nice to see someone who is in it and not of it.
I think maybe thats what valleywag was going for in it inception and sort of lost the plot too.
Even if people are pompous a-holes, they are still people and their feelings get hurt, and sometimes they change.
I dunno.
I'd like to see you ask more web and tech people how their products improve people's lives, if at all.
Chris
· 2 years ago
I just read Dawn D.'s blog. Now I get it. Robert is quitting because Valleywag pulled an enquirer on him.
Well, Valleywag obviously won this war.
Though I think him stopping blogging is ultimately for the best. Who would like to see Robert do real journalism? Can he?
I'm not even sure, but I think he should give it a try.
Guy Pelletier
· 2 years ago
Value, In order for me to except something as having value, it must give me something, knowledge, power, information, status, or money. This I assume, is the same for everybody. You have a strong following of thousands of people, and one thing I learned about the world of blogging , is that it has a very short memory. If you do not keep the interest alive, you will wither and die. Given these little perls, maybe it is not you that is failing in giving value, but the blogging world in not giving you value, you did hold this up to some high expectations. You have shown the world who you are and what you belive, and the world (blogging that is) told you what they thought of it. I have to say, that when I can, I enjoy your point of view and ubnique slant on things, I do not agree with some of your antics (politics are bad), but it is who you are. At the end of the day, it does not matter that when you put 3 people in a discussion, they will not agree.
You are still one of my favorite bloggers and the comments you receive are interesting to read in themselves.
I agree with Shel, go take a walk and smell the provibable flowers.
Guy
Chris
· 2 years ago
The more I read, the more I think this is disingenuous. Robert has a knack for playing the crowd. Is this really the Rolling Stones, err. Ozzy, err Robert's last tour???
116 responses, he got his value out of this. I give it a month tops. I wonder why it took me so long to figure it out.
At any rate, we have a new video up on the BCS home page, so click "Chris" the link below my post if you want to see what I do every day.
Surflizard
· 2 years ago
Robert seems to be channeling Dave Winer. Quick, call an exorcist.
macbeach
· 2 years ago
Funny... I stopped reading your feed (and quite a few others) the day before you stopped posting (this time).
With so much stuff out there, it's very hard to find a balance between those who post too much, post too little, or do/don't add enough value. Simply linking to something that I wouldn't have otherwise seen (and am interested in) adds value in and of itself. But I've found that the vast majority of the feed I have used don't do that, nor do they add commentary that is particularly valuable.
Your videos on the other hand are quite good, some of them (like the IBM lawyer, excellent), so I guess I need to figure out how to monitor them (I'll still pass on the photo-walkings, and you standing in line for Apple products etc.)
Keep up the GOOD work.
Lids
· 2 years ago
I like your emotional honesty in this post. A lot of tech blogs all have the same tone...a sort of "know it all" or "trying to be different but not up myself" tone. They give a competitive and unemotional tinge to the world of modern day technology. By revealing the truest of your emotions, you remind us that we are HUMAN...we have soft places, very soft places within ourselves where we experience the joy of life and learning, and the beauty of just paring back and considering what's really important! The life within, babies, families...then the other stuff comes second.
vinodi
· 2 years ago
Well said LayZ. Milan/Patrick/Maryam or something else does not matter to Robert Scoble as he cannot gets his hands off his blog.
David Cushman
· 2 years ago
This has probably already been said - I'm an example of the problem. Blogs should be about conversation - when we don't really listen we don't have a conversation. We start shouting. Argument rather than discourse.
For what it's worth Robert, I've enjoyed your work - was concerned that you were getting into too many rows lately and can tell you from experience becoming a father will change you. Perhaps this post about identity will offer something?: http://fasterfuture.blogspot.com/2007/08/i-am-p...
Chris
· 2 years ago
"Well said LayZ. Milan/Patrick/Maryam or something else does not matter to Robert Scoble as he cannot gets his hands off his blog."
What about him going to the gym to lose weight? He never did that either apparently because of his blogging.
Every single person in our office goes to the gym every day now after work. No one in our office wastes time blogging. Blogging is a TERRIBLE policy for employees. It wastes time and it accomplishes nothing. http://www.beercosoftware.com
Sean McGee
· 2 years ago
Hey Robert! We'll miss you this week.
You know what I think you need? A trip to Yosemite. Or anywhere outdoors. Just unplug for a few days. I always find that nature brings me back down to earth.
Kevin Bedell
· 2 years ago
Robert -
I've been a reader for a while. We almost met at Foo Camp 2-3 years ago, once.
Anyway, I stopped writing for about 2 years after doing a lot of writing -- I was Editor in Chief of LinuxWorld Magazine for while, wrote a Java book, wrote articles, blogged, etc. Then I stopped as I was going through a divorce and just lost my passion for it.
I let all my contacts languish, stopped following ideas, and just sort of went on auto-pilot for a while.
After a couple years I found my self wanting to write again, but not on the same topics I wrote on before. Instead of writing on Linux/Java/Programming/Culture like I did before, I started a blog on environmental issues.
In fact, it was my developing interest and passion for environmental issues that pulled me back to writing.
I don't think I could've written much that added value if I had forced myself to go back to writing too soon. Instead, I just let it go. When my passion came back, I just followed it and this is where it lead me.
So I'd say suspend your beliefs about writing and follow your heart -- when it's ready, your heart will let you know what to write about and when to start. It will take longer than you think, so don't rush.
I think it's natural that you make some time for yourself and family. You can always catch up, and it's good to get away and watch from the sidelines. When you come back, I'll be reading like always.
Chris
· 2 years ago
"I was Editor in Chief of LinuxWorld Magazine"
You rule. Though I read Linux Journal. LinuxWorld Mag I've only really seen free at Linux world in Toronto. Not sure where you can actually get that? http://www.beercosoftware.com/pics/lw.jpg
"I let all my contacts languish, stopped following ideas, and just sort of went on auto-pilot for a while."
If you want you can have us do all your contracts for you, for a fraction of the cost, then keep the difference of money of what they actually pay you. We do C, C++, Java, Websphere, PHP, Perl, and any other type of Linux programming under the sun.
Your customers will be happy and keep paying you, and you'll get to keep all your high price contracts. If anything goes off, I will take care of it. I'm currently writing a massive search engine and SQL server.
Take Care Kevin.
Richard Callaby
· 2 years ago
Robert,
There is so much more to the world then what you cover in your blog. You travel alot but do not cover the places you have seen. Why is that? Is it because you spend too much time stuck inside and do not have the ability to explore the world and all of the people that it contains? Perhaps. I like that you show that there are geeks from every part of the world and they are all trying to make the world a bit better in their own way. How about covering the geeks that are actually changing improvished countries by heloing their citizens learn how to adopt the digital age. You need to become more global and reach out to a greater audience.
Take care and be well,
Richard Callaby
Jon A.
· 2 years ago
Robert,
You always add value and you're being too hard on yourself. Good luck and I look forward to your return...
Dawn D.
· 2 years ago
"No one in our office wastes time blogging. Blogging is a TERRIBLE policy for employees. It wastes time and it accomplishes nothing."
Chris, you are such an ass. As a Christian, I don't normally call people names and would never do so lightly. But I'm sick to death of you. And you ARE an ass. God Himself surely knows it. He loves you anyway. I wish I were a good enough Christian to continue to ignor you. But this last post of yours has put me over the edge.
You've been commenting multiple times on every post Robert makes for months. You spend more time writing here than he does! And why? To advertise your software or whatever the heck it is you're peddling.
Talk about a waste of time! If this is your marketing strategy, it's the strategy of an ass and I feel sorry for your employees because their boss (or coworker or whatever the heck you are) is such an ass.
Have you ANY sense at all?? To sit here and tell us that nobody in your company blogs and that blogging is a waste of time when you've been spending months COMMENTING and COMMENTING and COMMENTING on this blog. Do you have any idea how STUPID and absurd and embarrassing that makes you look?
Yes, that's right, asinine.
Some Guy
· 2 years ago
Two things:
1) the world has enough mommy bloggers 2) when they told you you could dig ditches, you said "no, I want to be a mouthpiece for the Evil Empire". Its going to take years to get the smell of that criminal organization off of you, so get used to it.
Chris
· 2 years ago
@ Dawn D.
Well, I am going to take the high road here after reading all your obscenities, vulgarities and sullied adjectives. I don't believe in blogging, but as long as people are going to talk about "almost losing contracts" due to emotional stress, I will damn sure offer them a fast and easy solution where they can go play golf and still collect on them having us do all the work.
Most people that are stressed to the breaking point with high level contracts are unaware that they can get us to do it using highly skilled Canadian educated computer science graduates to complete their work for them. They think that the only escape is to let the contracts go, or to hire somebody that is totally incompetent educated in a 3rd world school system using text books from the 1980s.
I only want to help(and make a modest amount of money at the same time).
I truly feel your frustration Dawn D., and I as a former Catholic can only hope that God heals you and gives you the strength not to read posts that you feel do not pertain to you, and to find peace.
May all the best be with you, and may you find the peace that reading my offer has taken from you.
Dawn D.
· 2 years ago
Chris, you say "I don't believe in blogging," yet the threads I skim here show that you come to this blog multiple times every day and write more on Scobleizer than Robert himself.
Since you no longer believe in Catholicism, either, I can't help but wonder if you say a rosary every hour, too, and are transcribing the Deuterocanonical books of the Bible.
Have fun genuflecting constantly to what you don't believe in. I'll try harder to "suffer fools gladly" and go back to ignoring you.
Dawn D.
· 2 years ago
Rats. Since I genuflect to what I do believe in, I need to apologize. (People think Christianity is a crutch. That's a misunderstanding. It's a huge responsibility.)
Anyway, I'm sorry I verbally pummeled you. I shouldn't have. I do sincerely apologize and wish you the best.
Brad K.
· 2 years ago
Robert, when you feel lost - you are lost. That is when you turn to friends, family, coworkers. Rediscover the stability, the joy in life.
If you 'are what you eat', you are just as surely what you read, and what you view. A friend pointed out to me the essential fact of humor - there is pain. Someone has to suffer, for there to be humor. You cannot have a joke or a prank without someone feeling hurt, confused, embarrassed, or looking stupid.
On the other hand, joy is something that we can share forever, and it only gets better. While you are so aware of pain, you might avoid humor and blogs and books and people that seem to have pain all about them. Look for joy or turn the channel, find another web site.
Also look for gossip. I consider gossip to be one of the true social evils, nothing good can come of gossip. Well, I guess some people can make a living collecting, distributing, and creating gossip, but their audience isn't better for the gossip, the people that are gossiped about aren't helped.
Children are scary. At the earliest ages they believe there is only truth in the world. They believe everything they see is true, they believe everything you tell them. You might practice hearing and seeing for truth, so you can help shape their understanding of the world.
Blessed be!
papillion
· 2 years ago
Thoughtful posts like this are why I love reading Robert Scoble. Though he has enough clout that he could blog about inane things that people would read just because of who he is, he is motivated by the far loftier goal of making the world and the blogisphere a better and more valuable place.
Good on you Robert. Thank you for keeping your standards so high.
Chris
· 2 years ago
"Since you no longer believe in Catholicism, either, I can’t help but wonder if you say a rosary every hour, too"
When I see this blog, I see tens or perhaps hundreds of commenters that need an extra SLA or an extra hand doing contracts. I see people saying "I don't have time for this or that, or photo-walking or writing livejournal". "Robert's stuff adds so much value, I wish I could have that value"
Those people could easily profit from having a college grad pro helping them complete their work, whilst they do other things. Things such as Robert does on a daily basis.
If I did go to church and I saw some business people in the same predicament, I would have no choice but to let them know that there is help, and that we would be glad to help them.
BTW, If anybody is reading through. BCS can restock podtech with McGill, Laval and DEC grads for 1/2 to 1/3 the salaries you all are paying now. A/V grads, journalism grads, ect...
Not trying to be a tool. I'm just offering in case they would like the option. Solutions can often times be difficult, but you have to do what you have to do to keep going. We have volume discounts for 5 or more staff.
We can get them on location for a small fee, and a work permit fee and the required allotment time if work in the US from Canada is required. Definitely the video editing, and the write ups we could easily handle for them.
quotes
· 2 years ago
Everybody has bad days/weeks/months. Relax. You'll be back in no time. This business would wear anybody out. Consider what Victor Hugo said: "Have courage for the great sorrows of life and patience for the small ones; and when you have laboriously accomplished your daily task, go to sleep in peace. God is awake."
Irritated_by_chris
· 2 years ago
@146, 147 etc
You really don't think you are spamming this blog? whatever you've said in your defense would perfectly apply to an un solicited spam e-mail.
Either stop spamming this blog or stop defending the spam...
Dave Gray
· 2 years ago
Hey Scoble errrr I hope it was not the fact that we blamed you for the music selection on the Global Geek this week...
Seriously though mate - have a good break and we will see you next week ;)
Dawn D.
· 2 years ago
"If I did go to church and I saw some business people in the same predicament, I would have no choice but to let them know that there is help, and that we would be glad to help them."
If a church or a business or any other non-virtual establishment had a Chris on their doorstep, he would be asked politely to leave and if not, the police would be called.
I don't understand why bloggers put up with things on their virtual property that they wouldn't put up with on real property. "Free speech" doesn't mean you are obliged to give anybody and everybody a platform, no matter what they say or do.
Chris
· 2 years ago
"If a church or a business or any other non-virtual establishment had a Chris on their doorstep, he would be asked politely to leave and if not, the police would be called."
What are you implying here?
I go to many establishments and the authorities are never called. As a matter of fact, I help people with their HR and IT problems regularly. Don't you think you are exaggerating just a little bit? Or perhaps you need a reality check?
Either way you don't project the values of Christianity at all in my opinion. Scoble's marketing platform, what I refer to internally as Scoble 2.0 is a great place for merchants to exchange information and to do commerce. If you as a spectator can not see the value in that, then that's fine.
I wish you all the best. Really.
Chris
· 2 years ago
Dawn, I would shudder to think that you made an unprovable or unlikely and false statement about someone on a public forum with malicious intent. So I expect you to respond with some kind of factual information clarifying your position or statement or to make a retraction. I think it's only fair.
Dawn D.
· 2 years ago
I don't project the values of Christianity? Jesus Himself got angry and threw out the squatters who had set up commercial shop in His Father's house.
Talking to people here and there is one thing. You have very rudely made Robert's blog (something you claim to not believe in) a store front for yourself. You're not just quietly mingling in with the crowd and trying to help people you come across. You've constructed a shop right on Robert's porch and are increasingly putting out more and more neon signs.
And, no, I don't think I'm exaggerating. If you pulled this in the real world, you WOULD be arrested.
Rebecca
· 2 years ago
Chris,
Come on, this is not your personal space. You really are encroaching, and being like a bad guest. I would venture to say that you are only acting in such a manner since Robert is not here, nor most like not reading the words (read: sales pitch) that you are posting here. You want Americans to have to lower their standards and payscale to 1/3 or 1/2 of what they are making now. I double dare you to tell that to my spouse who has worked very hard at his career for almost a 1/4 century with the same company, and well at that. Some person, you, claim, that you can come from Canada, and do it cheaper and better? Sure..why not take your marketing to a spot where it really belongs. Somehow, I do not see this as the proper platform. Just my humble, not so wide awake opinion.
LayZ
· 2 years ago
@148 "If a church or a business or any other non-virtual establishment had a Chris on their doorstep, he would be asked politely to leave and if not, the police would be called."
"But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ." Rom 14:10
"Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way." Rom 14:13
Chris
· 2 years ago
"I don’t project the values of Christianity? Jesus Himself got angry and threw out the squatters who had set up commercial shop in His Father’s house."
Comparing Scoble to God is blasphemy in any religion.
"And, no, I don’t think I’m exaggerating. If you pulled this in the real world, you WOULD be arrested."
No I would not. I feel your false comments have unfairly harmed me and I am considering action. You may post a retraction at any time if you like.
Long-time Scoble reader
· 2 years ago
Kevin said: "I let all my contacts languish..."
To which Chris responded: "If you want you can have us do all your contracts for you, for a fraction of the cost"
He said "contacts", Chris, not "contracts". It's best to slow down and pay attention before you make your sales pitch or any other comment. A large chunk of words in this comment thread are devoted to your promoting and justifying based on your own misreading.
I'm surprised Robert has tolerated your comments for so long. They detract from the value. Dawn was simply willing to speak out loud what most readers here have been thinking, and you can't take action against everyone.
Robert, take what ever time you need and we'll miss you and be happy when you're back!
Dawn D.
· 2 years ago
Take it up with my daughter, Chris. She's a new lawyer and needs the practice. If you want to run up your legal bills on a unwinnable case, go for it.
While you're collecting evidence, perhaps you can give your lawyer copies of all the malicious comments and accusations you've made against Robert, too, like his "disingenuous" break from blogging.
Chris
· 2 years ago
"Take it up with my daughter, Chris. She’s a new lawyer and needs the practice. If you want to run up your legal bills on a unwinnable case, go for it."
If you insist. Nothing I said about Robert was with malicious intent. If Robert cites something wrong I wrote, I would be happy to issue a retraction to remedy the situation.
Dawn D.
· 2 years ago
Exactly what "malicious intent" are you accusing me of? There is nothing "wrong" in what I wrote.
Go up to the local Best Buy or anywhere else that your potential clients hang out and walk around on the property all day shoving your flyers in people's faces. You'll be asked to leave. If you don't, you'll be arrested. That's what I said, and it's a fact. There is no "retraction" that would "remedy" that fact.
Chris Heuer
· 2 years ago
Robert, you are a great guy, and I really like you as a person - someone I have gotten to know as a human being in real world interactions as much as through your blog.
But when I read something like this, from someone who has recently cast the hypocritical stone at others, it bugs me. You have said on many occasions that you don't need to get all the facts right in the blog, you let others sort it out in the comments - "that's the great thing about blogs" is one statement I recall. This is clearly part of your operating philosophy about blogging.
So why is it ok for you to get the facts wrong and let others figure it out, but not ok in the reverse? For the same reason I was upset when you cast an incorrect shadow over what we were trying to do with the Social Media Release - it hurts when people are wrong about you and what you are doing - it feels, and in some cases is, personal. This is why I talk about modeling right action, promoting ethics and sharing best practices - why we, as Bloggers, should learn to uphold certain aspects of journalistic integrity (though its a mostly free world and no one HAS to do so, leaders should lead by example). So we can help lift up the world and help more people see how we think things should be instead of how they are.
Have you read "The Four Agreements" yet? If not, now is a good time to do so - very powerful stuff in there - might be very enlightening at this time.
I am sorry this has been a difficult time for you - transitions like the one at Podtech are not easy. Being in the spotlight in front of so many is not easy. Making the world better is not easy. The thing is, your heart is in the right place, you have love in your life and you have many real friends for support - make the most of that.
Your friend,
Chris
ps, I would have emailed you, but you don't get them, so feel free to delete this if you would like...
Chris
· 2 years ago
"Go up to the local Best Buy or anywhere else that your potential clients hang out and walk around on the property all day shoving your flyers in people’s faces. You’ll be asked to leave. If you don’t, you’ll be arrested. That’s what I said, and it’s a fact. There is no “retraction” that would “remedy” that fact."
My clients aren't normally best buy shoppers. Your comparison is not accurate, and your implications and statements are false. Your assertions following your claim are based on an original false claim which make them just as or more invalid. Now you persist these claims. I will have no choice but to seek remedy. I am no longer discussing this with you.
Steve Elbows
· 2 years ago
My thoughts on this Chris character are that he engages in multiple things which are not good for blogs:
Blatantly using Scoble's comments to advertise his business, shameful.
Threatening legal ramifications when others criticise him, pathetic.
If this ever came to court and I was the judge, Id say your own words have potentially lost you more business than anybody elses criticism of you, I would run a mile rather than deal with someone like you.
Chris
· 2 years ago
Steve, Criticism and false statements are not the same thing.
Point: "Bob tried to sell me a car"
Criticism: "I felt Bob was annoying" Libel: "Bob did something worthy of being carried off by the police, Bob committed a crime."
I for one do not mix one with the other. Happy mile run.
danielmcvicar
· 2 years ago
Hi Robert I just got back from backpacking in the Yosemite Wilderness. Unplugging is healthy. I learned not to get disheartened by the bears...they only want food, or sweetsmelling things. I didn't take any attacks personally.
I wish you and your family all the best, and enjoy your pause. D
Greg E (Vista Master)
· 2 years ago
I go through these same periods of "what is the point" - now, more frequently than ever. Not in as stark of a way as it was for you this time around, but basically the same. And then I think about it for a while - here is the reason - and I mean this earnestly: Every little thing we do does make a difference. Every day when I start my browser, I see what you are thinking for that day. More often than not, you inspire me to look at something new or at something differently.
Except, I have let you down. It is all take and I don't give back to you - to let you know that maybe you did have an impact. I have forgotten (thank you for reminding me) that this IS a two way street. Words that we say can hurt, but words that we don't say can hurt even more!
So, I would like to make a pact with you - and others who blog - Please continue to communicate and I will tell you more often how your comments have impacted me... and I will always remember that I should consider that words, even on a blog, can hurt!
Greg
Sean
· 2 years ago
Chris,
Here's a defamatory statement for you: Your software is embedded with spyware!
Now what are you gonna do? I dare you to do something!
Stop being a little pussy and realize that your marketing strategy needs to change.
bill streeter
· 2 years ago
Robert,
I believe that blogs and better communication/colaboration can make people smarter. But you have to remember that when human beings are involved a lot of stupid stuff is gonna happen on the way to becoming smarter. It's the way it is. Sometimes it's good to remember that.
Take care of yourself.
Dawn D.
· 2 years ago
@159 Yeah, I'm not concerned about Chris' threats. I didn't libel him. Lawyers and judges are smart; they'll be able to follow my argument. If he's silly enough to see an attorney about suing me, she will either laugh him out of her office or smile to herself that she has a good pigeon on the line.
But I DID badly go against my own good advice and didn't stay professional in my original comments. Still, I do think this points to something that is deserving of discussion.
Personalities aside, if any blog has a shameless perpetual huckster, or a tiresome troll who won't shut up, etc., at what point, if any, is it okay for the audience to declare that enough is enough?
What's a blogger's responsibility to his general audience? Does one person's good trump the overall good? For example, is protecting one person's financial desires more important that protecting the experience of the overall audience?
More broadly, does a blogger and his or her audience have to put up with bad behavior in the name of free speech or under threat of being sued?
Is there such a thing as "rights of the whole" when it comes to a blogger's audience???
I personally don't think that an individual's right to freedom of expression trumps all reason and common decency. Like I said, nobody is required to give anybody else a platform to spew whatever he or she wishes.
In the real world, people remove themselves from such people until the offender is speaking to a wall. But with blogs, we're all captured in the same space and if we want to follow the discussion, we're forced to wade through the mounting crap.
Of course, we have the right to walk away ourselves and let the basest of people win. Seems to me that's a poor solution. Putting up with bad behavior just creates more of it as our standards as a society continue to collapse into the muck of "anything goes because any self expression is good and who are we to judge behavior."
Clue to LayZ: "Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment" (John 7:24). The idea of rightly judging **the behavior** of others can, in fact, be found throughout the Bible. What you cite is talking about judging a person's soul, which only God can do.
In the end, it must be up to the blogger to manage his or her own audience and figure out what to do with troublesome commenters, if anything. I'd just like to suggest that "making the world better" surely includes not rolling over to people who make it worse.
Chris
· 2 years ago
"free speech or under threat of being sued?"
Free speech does not include making false statements with malicious intent towards an individual. I am not sure yet, but I think I will be filing the original complaint.
"But I DID badly go against my own good advice and didn’t stay professional in my original comments."
This sounds like an admission. If you would simply care to retract your original false statement, I would be willing to drop this. I think that's reasonable enough.
Dawn D.
· 2 years ago
I meant I shouldn't have called you an ass.
My "original false statement" which you seem to be upset about, given what you wrote in #160, is your wrong notion that I called you a criminal. I didn't.
But if it makes you feel better, I don't think you "committed a crime" nor "did something worthy of being carried off by the police."
Chris
· 2 years ago
That's good enough. Next time please stick to the facts. I will do my best to be factual as well. I do not want any trouble, but I do not want to be misrepresented either. Thanks
anon
· 2 years ago
Chris and Dawn D.: take it off line!
Tom
· 2 years ago
I thought last week, what it would be like, if the science and or environmental world had "a Scoble" in that field - the interesting passion and knowledge, with both breadth and depth, but also how to actually link the fun with the meaningful - the truly helping ourselves and future generations. Maybe an angle is what's required, that and a small break - perspective can be useful, and taking stock is good.
Guy Pelletier
· 2 years ago
Crap, Look at what you did, you have LayZ talking about religion, and everybody swapping barbs. Its been several comments since anybody said anything techie.
Crap
Guy
Robert Scoble
· 2 years ago
Chris Heuer: you missed where I updated my philosophy and have repeated that new philosophy several times: it is important to get it right out of the gate.
But, even if you missed that there's a HUGE difference between totally making shit up about someone (he was fired) to getting some "shading" wrong about an idea that was being discussed.
When I wrote about the Social Media Press Release I was discussing an idea. If I got it wrong, you should have pointed out how I did. I seem to remember you doing that. I also seem to remember linking back to your updates.
That's TOTALLY DIFFERENT than what a certain "gossip" site did to me (and is continuing to do to me).
Robert Scoble
· 2 years ago
Chris (and everyone). I know Chris does follow up his lawsuit threats, no matter how frivolous they might seem to you and me. So, be careful here.
Chris: I think you've lost your rights to participate in my community here. When I do start blogging again I'm going to start blocking your messages.
Sorry to do this, but I've gotten so many complaints about your behavior here that I'm no longer going to put up with it. I don't tolerate people who threaten to sue other commenters. That's not fair behavior here.
Chris
· 2 years ago
"I don’t tolerate people who threaten to sue other commenters. That’s not fair behavior here."
I understand. I'm also sure you know you could have stopped Valleywag and others long ago but chose not to as your strategy. I'll keep reading it.
LayZ
· 2 years ago
@179 and @!80....
Whoa!!! I think we need a ruling here. Does Scoble commenting on HIS OWN BLOG count as being back???? If so,I'll take my winnings in cash as we've snapped the "streak" at 4 days, which was my bet.
Can we get a ruling on this? ;-)
Mark Ivey
· 2 years ago
Robert--Taking a break is not a bad idea; everyone needs to get recharged at some point I'm amazed you've endured for this long, leading the way in your own way in this crazy new world. I"m a few years older than you meaning I've almost certainly made more mistakes; one thing I do know is it doesn't do much good to beat yourself up--we could all have done better with our families, our spouses (speaking as a divorced dad) and our lives. Keep looking ahead, not back, and figuring out what the next chapter of your life will be. We've all learned and benefited from your postings and perspective the last few years. And no matter what your state of mind is today, I have a feeling you're just getting warmed up. Let me know if I can ever help and good luck.
Robert Scoble
· 2 years ago
LayZ: in that definition I never left. :-)
Len Edgerly
· 2 years ago
Robert, I'm glad to see you commenting here, but I hope your break from "real" blogging ends soon. I check my NetVibes feed every day, sad to see the latest post is still "Things on my mind..." You were wise to take a pause. I hope its healing effect brings you back refreshed--and soon!
LayZ
· 2 years ago
@184. I'm throwing the red flag out on this. Commenting on other blogs, if that is what you are suggesting, I don't think qualifies as being "back". But commenting on your own blog? Seems the spirit of the "break" was violated. ;-). I think we need to go up to the booth for a reply ruling.
lisa coultrup
· 2 years ago
Hey Robert
I am really glad to know that your little one will have such great parents, its always been obvious how much you care about your family and the world around us. When I began my journey into being a blogger, I kept hearing your name and decided to check your place out. I was taken with how kind you were, how you really went all out to explain things for newbies like myself, and how you just seemed to be a really nice guy. I hope you get to relax and enjoy your new baby when he gets here, but I also hope your not away too long because your a big influence on so many of us! all the best :-)
James
· 2 years ago
I am probably not the only one who has been reading this blog for a while who would ever hire Chris for anything.
Pimping his company constantly here (the only one doing so), threatening lawsuits (in a comment thread !?! thats called a troll), bragging about going to the gym,etc. etc. is not the best way to attract customers.
The candle on the cake is misreading contacts as contracts
I think this is core to bofhing v constructive dialogue; the 'no capes' approach to stuff.
It also feels a good fit for thoughts like Jimmy Wales' suggestion some time back that we need to 'disagree safely'. I think wikis are teaching us much about the skills we need to develop in order to have free participative spaces where we use good skills instead of fences to keep things constructive and usefully negotiable.
Guy Pelletier
· 2 years ago
@186 I agree, particapating in your own blog is blogging
Guy
Eric
· 2 years ago
Sometimes you have to be angry to start making a difference and changing the world for the better - else you are a Pollyanna and the world will never change, but you will just think it is better.
Matt Cutts
· 2 years ago
Where's mah Scoble?
Juho
· 2 years ago
Takes a lot of guts to admit being in a situation like this. Even more so to do it publicly, and then do the logical thing which is take a couple of steps back.
Suddenly my interest in following Scobleizer shot up a 100%...
Carrot
· 2 years ago
Glad you read through your comments - and just may be picked up on my comment about how you dealt with your son. Your kids will grow up super fast, your wife and you will grow older. No life is eternal, so make the most of it. your blogging is good, but a break won't kill you- or us for that matter. Live the real world, with your closest family and friends.
amorson
· 2 years ago
Blogs are a reflection of the person who write them and the society we live in, the same as our TV, radio, etc....
Thinking blogs would be any different is naive. And even so, I share your feelings...
Steli Efti
· 2 years ago
Hey Robert,
just wanted to tell you that you made a BIG difference in my world. We met at an event on my first day in the US, my first day in Silicon Valley and you are one of the nicest people I met since I came to this area.
You introduced me to ppl, showed me the original hp garage and took me with you to sf new tech meetup.
You're a great guy and I'll never forget how you treated me when nobody else gave a shit.
Thanks again Steli
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All Comments
Don't let yoursef make down.
You don't think you're passionate? Heck, if you're not passionate, I don't know anyone who is. Your sin might actually be that you're too passionate about things that perhaps don't matter that much to most people. Now it's time to (also) be passionate about other things, right? Good for you!
Enjoy your family and especially that little one that's coming. Sooner than you think I think you'll be missing logging into your Wordpress account :-)
When you come back, tell us what you've learned in your time away about doing just that, and let us know how we can help.
Thank you. :-)
EDITOR NOTE: Here's a link to Chris Brogan's blog: http://grasshopperfactory.com/cbc/learning-what...
It's likely to strike all sorts of new fresh ideas, and give you a chance to decompress, so that can't be bad.
Enjoy the break from the net nutters...
Financialaid: I just read Chris Brogan's blog. I don't think we had all that different a Gnomedex. In fact, sounds like we reached much the same conclusion. I do admit I didn't enjoy Robert Steele's speech, though. I thought it was dreadful. It did make me think, though, mostly about how I could be a better speaker. :-)
And with that, I'm out of here.
Thank-you for not telling us Milan has his own page on Facebook with 2600 friends.
Marc Canter coole-O, he enjoys his children without ever having to twitter them.
Now I know I'll never attend one of your conferences cause you have no clue about where the real value of conferences is.
They videotape the sessions for a reason. Anyway, I'm outta here. Gotta stop visiting Wordpress. Sigh. I'm such an addict.
Paul: Marc might not Twitter his daughters but he talks about them in his video. And Milan can't join Facebook until he's in High School. Learned that lesson already.
Heck, your blog is part of my Google Reader RSS feed - if I didn't find value from your insights, I could have dumped it after the first few articles.
Anyway, blood is thicker still and I commend you for taking a break and spending more time with your family. I know how it is to prep for a new baby (heck, I already have four!) so take as much rest as you can...
Looking forward to the revved up return. :)
Cheers!
Maybe you should also figure out what "friend" means and not use the term so loosely and cavalierly. Nobody can claim thousands of friends without ultimately making half of them enemies.
IOW, you need to get much better about setting boundaries for yourself and making them clear to others, IMO.
Don't get me wrong, it makes great reading sometimes but generally distracts from the larger and more important issues.
Also read my blog about gnomes and trolls (above).
Your videos add a great deal of value! At the moment, I find 'watching' info more exciting than 'reading' it.
That's why I'm gonna do 'videoblogs' too, while I am in NY in September, talking to people in the music scene/business. I'll have a Kyte Channel on my blog:
http:newyorkstateofmind.wordpress.com
I copied that idea from you so thanx very much.
Cheers, man. Keep up the good fight. And breathe.
As someone above mentions though, maybe you're speading yourself too thin at the mo. In this hyperconnected world, the slightest slight (sorry!) can take on apocalyptic proportions. And when you're as connected as you are - across so many platforms - you are going to encounter a lot of hostility.
Having said that, I do find sometimes that you take criticism very personally and I think that's because 1/ you are very passionate, 2/ you are so knowledgeable about the industry that maybe you find it difficult to accept your views might not be universally accepted, 3/ you are stressed because you work too hard and have a kid on the way.
It's great that you're having a break. Concentrate on what's really important for a while - family, health and well-being.
Looking forward to learning more from you when you're back.
Vi ses (as they say here in Denmark!)
Enjoy the new bub; kids are the best!
Your kids are a real balancer tho' - there is nothing more important and 5 minutes with them and you won't be mad anymore - being mad when with your kids is horrible, so you drop it.
I enjoy your blogs - particularly those where you interview or simplly give insight to new ideas. Hope that continues. Best Wishes.
In Sydney, Australia we have a reasonable radio program in the evening on 2GB. A few months ago they had in an "expert" on the next new thing in retail sales. He said the next big thing is "Adding Value".
He talked about the little things that are not necessarily the "core" business but are the things that make a difference such as the coffee shop in the book store, the lounge chairs in departmental stores with the sport on TV....
After a while these value added things overtake the core business of the operation and become indispensible to the success of the business.
I am in education and try to add value and you helop me do this.
Enjoy your break and see you on the otherside.
cheers Martin
And even that old saw about "taking more time with your family" is only good as far as it goes -- but you don't have to overdose it.
The planet has, what, 8 billion people that go and have families and find jobs and work and have fun and live and die. It's more than fine if a few people don't do it exactly that way, and do something different.
That fellow's daughter actually has to make her own world better, and take responsibility for it in due course, and not expect Scoble to make it better for you. You can only do so much. Isn't making your own world better part of it too? Must it always be about altruism which you can't live up to anyway?
I can only say, keep learning and being excited and talking about technology, and playing with it and experimenting it and making lots of friends to show it to. It's the best thing in the world -- and you're doing it. People who find it hard to understand what they can get out of Facebook or Twitter, I tell them go and read Scoble, mine his friends, watch how they do it and what groups they join, that will make it interesting for you, and it works.
If you need to go recharge batteries, recharge, but no need to take dramatic positions like "Akh, I am ceasing to read all blogs, jamais, never more, nikogda!" Let them pile up a little in Google reader, who's to know? Then obsessively read them at 3 am during feedings, it's fine, it's all good.
Remember, sleep when the baby sleeps! Sleep *now* in advance because you will definitely not be sleeping in a bit.
Get a list of who posses those traits that are desirable in bloggers - and invite them to guest blog.
This not only adds a dimension to the blog, but adds perspective.
In terms of getting depress about the unfairness of life - it is a waste of time. Life on Earth is EXTREMELY fleeting for any Human Being and tomorrow is never a guarantee for ANYONE.
It is best to never waste the precious seconds of life allowing the evil from others to steal time from tomorrow.
The thing about blogging is that, like everything else, it's just a tool to be used for good or for bad. A hammer in the hands of a master carpenter can create great things. It can also be used to bash in someone's skull. The hammer itself is just the tool, how it's used is up to the person swinging it, and people are fallible.
Some people truly try to use blogging as a way to share information and ideas that are important to them, and their audience, some verbally bash each other over the head, for various reasons not the least of which is that gets a whole lot of attention. The easiest way to get a whole lot of people talking about your blog, is to use the tool to bash people, especially people like you who have a pretty large audience. That takes almost zero talent, anyone can do it.
If you want to add value to the world your kids are growing up in, then use the tool to share information and ideas that are important to you. Instead of spending all your time chasing down the next "cool" thing, (which I understand is already your day job) so that you can be first to the story, take the time to understand why something is useful, what it makes possible and how that makes life better.
Blogging, used as a proper tool, makes life better by allowing anyone to publish and share their ideas with the world. It allows me to learn something new, and immediately share it with an audience, whether it be about a new service, a solution to a problem, a good restaurant, etc. Search out the bloggers that consistently do that, and strive to be one yourself. Let the skull bashers be what they are, where they are. Quit giving them attention they don't deserve.
That's my .02 anyway, from someone with a long history of depression and a long list of tools to cope with it. :)
Everyone needs a vacation from work, so enjoy your time off.
I will be looking forward to what you have to say, as it appears many others will too.
I totally enjoy your videos, and am greatfull that some one is recording, as you call them, "the gray beards".
keep up the great work when you return.
Craig
Have fun storming the castle!
I am glad you are taking time for you and your family, but don't let the haters bring you down. If anything it has only made people more fond of what you do. Just look at all of these great comment posts above and below.
I don't keep a blog because I am not exactly sure I have anything new to say. That is the only criteria I see for what you and the rest of the "sphere" does. And you, sir, have lots of interesting and new things to say. Keep on talkin' cause we are listening.
"Never wrestle in the mud with a pig. You both get dirty, but the pig likes it."
People are people, no matter what the medium of communication. Sometimes angels, sometimes jerks. So just do what I'm sure you'll teach your kids to do. Bless the angels. Ignore the jerks.
You are right. Holding a 19-day-old baby is cathartic and puts the meaning of Twitter in real perspective. Instead of dinner, why don't we just go walk on the beach together. It's time we kicked back and walked and talked.
Some feedback from someone who has been reading your blog for 18 months or so. Don't take it personally, I do enjoy reading it!
1) Take a step back now and then and see the wider picture, rather through the Silicon Valley prism
2) You don't have to latch onto the latest and greatest thing (twitter, iphone, facebook etc) all the time and bang on about them with the intensity that you do, sometimes it can be a bit annoying.
3) It's obvious that you're passionate about this stuff (which is good) but sometimes that gives the impression that it clouds your judgement somewhat. Stop and think now and again before you post!
4) Don't take things too personally, and don't try and reply to so many posts
Enjoy the break - but I bet you're not away for long, if at all...
Take some enjoyed time off!! I expect I will still see you taking over my Facebook front page though :D
Enjoy! your blogs gonna stay in my Reader.. waiting for you to return!
Jez
I will offer up a few cents worth of advice, after reading your blog almost daily for about 4 years.
Perhaps it may be benificial (and add value to your own life) to separate your work/public self a bit more from your personal private life--not so much in how you talk about it on your blog, but in how you live your life. Your son and wife are already totally intertwined into your professional life, that I don't think you ever get a break. And then it becomes a viscous circle because you lose a bit of perspective and sometimes come off like this is the way everybody lives--wrapped up writing and reading blogs, living in Facebook and Twitter, and video taping everything, instead of living it. When shit happens like this week, you have no where to go, because you are already there (Same for WIner).
All that being said, do let us know when Milan arrives and enjoy that to the fullest. It may be OK to video tape that and write about it later, but don't let it get in the way of actually being there. Hopefully your break will be the regeneration you are looking for. Good luck with it and congratulaitons in advance to you and Maryam.
maliha
I'd think that in your situation a hiking trip to Yosemite with your son and a camera would work wonders. Or is it too hot for that there in California? Then off to the beach...
I spoke to you momentarily in the hallway at Gnomedex while you were telling Marc Canter that you are into "walled gardens, baby!".
Anyways, remember what I told you about being perceived at a "thermometer" of *what's next* or the *bleeding edge*. A lot of people turn to your blog for just that reason, so there is a whole lot of worth in that.
Take some time, step away and recharge. Come back with a new perspective and just keep on keeping on and being the same ol 'Scobleizer we've all come to get the latest in tech news from.
Cheers, Robert. It will and does get better.
Keep the faith.
- Amanda
Given your intensity, it is normal and healthy to unplug from time to time. I am an avid reader of your blog. It is not always easy to put works about what once like but here it goes.
I like your passion, transparency and truthfulness. A few of your post about Facebook being a marketing platform and the reason you "friend" people is to able to reach them later on which started to raise questions about your truthfulness.
I like your content. Try to focus on producing less but higher quality. No need to multiplex on 50 channels: blog, podtech, twitter, facebook, kyte, etc.
I come here because I want to get 10-20 minute of insanely good developer content. You have proven that you know who to do this. It is just a matter of focus (and I understand focus is not always easy for someone you is always experimenting and looking for the next big thing).
-Edwin
In the meantime, you will be missed! I always look forward to your blog posts and I'll be waiting for your return.
Brent
Sorry about the depressing news around the blogosphere about you. I say f*** them! Enjoy your break. :)
You deserve a break, but if you're looking for a project to sink your teeth into, and to (just possibly) fire up your juices, try reading some of the great edubloggers to see the problems that schools everywhere are having in adopting and embedding the new tech that you have championed for so long. People like Christan Long, Ewan McIntosh (ask Shel Israel about him), Will Richardson, David Warlick, Stephen Downes and Chris Sessums could probably give you a fresh perspective and way of looking at so much of what you take for granted as a 'tech-head'.
Goodness knows that education could use someone with your skills and knowledge base to help gt things moving a little quicker!
Whatever you decide, all the best with the new kid on the block and if you don't mind, I'm going to keep you in my RSS feed just in case you feel like saying something! ;)
By getting people to listen to each other. All good things come from open minds. You're work here is always about listening and giving people access to a community of open minds.
Can you do better? Sure. You consistently seem to get better.
(and I think you've been a better father than credit yourself... ask Patrick and see what he thinks... unless, of course, he's a teenager... then wait 10 years for a fair answer... otherwise he'll use the opportunity to get a new Mac.)
PS> Do you think you might be able to get Jason and Dave to listen to each other and agree that:
1. Jason is motivated by more than JUST the money.
2. Dave can't view every service's value by his ability to script it...
And all conferences are NOT unconferences. Some are opportunities to promote: ideas, movements and (yes) your struggling start-up. Go figure.
They embarassed each other... Who will be the bigger man in all this? Scoble. Good luck with that.
On a technical note, you say, "You can see her in this Kyte video that I shot with my Nokia N95 (which is why the video is a bit small and blurry)."
That is not the reason that the video is "small and blurry."
When I shoot video, I use the primary camera on the N95 and choose 640x480 at 30 fps. The videos come out big and clear.
Here's a video I shot this weekend:
http://stevegarfield.blogs.com/videoblog/2007/0...
On that post you can view the original 640x480 30 fps footage.
What settings were you using and which camera lens, the primary or secondary?
Thanks,
--Steve
The only thing which counts is that you're making this choice at this moment in life cause you FEEL it's the right thing to do for YOU...this despite the fact that 'the rest of the world' thinks your content is still oh-so great...when you don't feel this way yourself, you're loosing energy instead of gaining energy from blogging/twittering/etc.
No one will/can ever blame you for choosing for yourself.
I am sure it sets an example for others...sit down, take a deep breath and look at things that really matter in life, it is one of the most important and most overlooked treasures in life...I'm 100% with you man!
It's actually a phase I went through earlier this year and has has had much to do with taking back control over your own life...try it, do it, I can recommend it to everyone! Let life be.
Will see you back blogging when the time is right for you, trust me...we're all very patient people here.
Take care and (always!) enjoy life!
I am sorry to hear that recent times have been so draining. I hope your rest is good and you have many amazing revelations and find a new way to harness your passion in ways that you find fulfilling and useful for the world.
One of the things I love about the net, blogs, forums etc, is the ability to converse, to let go and be totally honest. Im not sure the authoratitive matters so much to me, or at least I like the potential for there to be balance on the net, the non-authoritative have their place in stopping the authoritative ones from getting too far away from reality?
Unfortunately its impossible to escape the human side of this, most people cant help but take things personally. If you absorb all the negative stuff on the net as well as the positive, its a bit like the horros that would happen if you woke up in some twilight zone world where you could read the minds of what everyone around you is thinking.
Or a completely differnt way of looking at it is that humans are still essentially tribal in nature, and this has all sorts of implications for humans on the net & social networking and stuff, not least in terms of scale. As an outsider Ive never understood how people who do a lot of networking, can maintain real connections with so many people. And Im not sure the technology always helps, maybe it just encourages one to push the size of their tribe to undrealistic heights?
Anyway, I won't try to second guess what revelations and new found passions you may encounter whilst resting from what is turning out to be a fairly negative depressing and irritable 2007 for this particular side of the blogosphere. I will take a pop at companies and people on specific issues when I think they are out of line, but the whole podtech thing is turning into an ugly vendetta that some are enjoying, and whilst I cant help watching, I dont like it. As an outsider not even on the same continent, I dont really know whether any of the negative energy on this is caused by some fundamental ugliness somewhere within podtech itself, Id guess there is something sick somewhere. But regardless of what any internal realities might be, it doesnt seem to justify the level of negative blogpress you are getting lately, some are clearly looking forward to podtech's demise with some relish.
Oh well, life is a funny thing. I had my own personal revelation/spiritual reboot last night when looking at that lovely meteor storm in the sky.
Still I cant help but say that if you want the internet to help people get smarter not stupider, you can play a part in that, but there are many paths that look like the way to cleverville that actually lead to same old depressive human behaviour alley. Im trapped in the alley because I am too negative and never do anyything. But I thought I saw you or perhaps just your shadow there, because of the way positive commercial PR is not something Id likely think is likely to lead humanity towards a more knowledgable future, quite the opposite.
I hope you read this.
A. Don't give up. Lots of people read you and think about what you've written.
B. If necessary, go stealth and do an invite only club. That way you can focus on driving your conversation with people who actually tune in.
C. Remember the New York Daily News quote, "Love me, hate me, but always read me." The others just have sour grapes. They wish they were Scoble.
Take some time to rest. See you soon.
It's not just you feeling blase. I've felt the same way for a while now, some 7.5 years ago. I rarely read blogs these days, nor watch prime-time TV, etc., anymore, it's the same ol' crud, recycled. Americans these days rarely think and do, rather way too gossipy and self-absorbed, living off fruits of past generations as did the British, French, Spanish, and empires before. It's just being human and how things are since time immemorial. Complacency and contempt, there is a large gap between what we aspire to be and what we're capable of at a given point in time of our evolution.
Right now though, I think what you're tired of, at root, is that there is no leadership, in both political and technology spheres, and hence a lack of direction, a debasement and disrespect of ideas and reasoning. Today, American society and its various forms of dialog, what little authentic conversations that remain, has been mostly replaced by shouting and blaring sound-bites, blogging included, basically a race to the bottom. As such there's not much interesting to report as it's the same ol' cookie cut content and politics and themes rebroadcast endless times, and in the end, with no real care in the world except perhaps to maximize eyeballs reached and ad rates for the few who happily exploit the masses with little consideration what the future will bring because of it.
It's high-minded and respectable to assume that blogging and positive change can come from the masses per se. Yet given that we're pretty predictable bell-curved mortals, it always seems that true progress most of the time starts at the top. And hence, here we are and go.
The interesting story is not about the hammer and nails. The interesting story is about the houses they build. Menlo Park forgets that sometime.
[Steve, if you're reading this, Congrats on your newborn]
Hugs and Smiles to all....
Take care of yourself.
And when you come back, keep some quality time for you away of the stress. It works for me.
I'm not sure why you're down on yourself. So you expressed some anger. The bottom line is that anger is an emotion that is suppressed too much in our politically-correct society. I enjoy your videos, but I'm not counting on you to save the world. :)
As long as you make your family happy, that's your only true responsiblity. I'll leave you with a great quote by Bill Cosby.
" I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody."
I've been watching your posting on the web and on Facebook, not to mention Twitter for the past month. It seemed you were building up to something. Trying to get in as much work before the birth.
Your damn good at what you do and add value to things you are doing.
The question I think you need to ask is, Is there balance in what your doing? Is all aspects of your life being attended to or are you favoring one right now like paying too much attention to one child before a extremely long trip, because you think you will neglect it in the near future?
From your post above and the streaming of information on the internet from you in the past months it seems this might be the issue. But thats just my observation from this side of the net.
I hope you relax. Play with your son, cuddle with your wife, talk to your new child, take time for yourself. Sometimes you just need to declare internet bankruptcy once in a while.
When your ready to come back, I and many others will be ready to read, view, listen to what you create.
Chris
Hang in there. I think the thoughts from most to just enjoy life is right on target.
I keft my old company to be with my baby and taking a break was the best thing I ever did. Two weeks later my baby girl was decorating the Christmas tree with me at 11 am on a Tuesday morning when I would have been at work worried about some interview that I was hosting for a tech exec. As she walked forward towards the tree holding the ornament in her tiny chubby hands trying desperately not to break it - my life changed.
So go in peace, remember what/who you work for - it is not for all of these kind and a few unkind people listed above me, it is not for the people at Gnomedex or any other dex it is for those who live under your roof. Best with the baby and perhaps someday when I actually have a Facebook page we might be friends.
Th world is changing at an ever increasing rate and unless we filter it with what we find important we can quickly become overwhelmed.
Relax, think, enjoy come again fresh. We will all still be here.
Best,
-Marty
1. Baby Suri (and other celebrity babies without a blog) will hold a candle a patronizing but pathetic candle to this Milan, who, by the way, should cut the crap and just get out of his hiding place already. My patience for him is waning and he needs to get his act together.
2. Robert will make a friend in the next twenty minutes.
2a. Aforementioned friend will have potential to be a Friend but the over/under is 4:1.
3. Robert will make a nemesis, borderline-enemy within the next 20 hrs (terms defined by Klosterman in a moment of brevity, relatively speaking, of course).
3a. This nemesis will tell his Friends that Robert is his friend.
4. Robert's blog has a 60% chance of being 4% worse by 5 p.m. tomorrow.
4b. 60% of a-list bloggers will think this. 4% of them will say this. 100% of the 4 percenters will be universally praised by 100% dickheads.
5. My friends and I will use Robert's promise to not post tomorrow as fodder for idle, calorie burning conversation some time tomorrow evening (location TBA).
ב'עהצלכה חבר
seriously, this is what happens when you live in the apple echo chamber for a month or two... as you have since going iphone insane.
best of luck on your recovery. i hope you start by tossing all apple-logod products into the nearest trash heap.
Lurker #234,842
You are who (what?) you are. It can seem like "all or nothing", but there HAS to be middle ground amongst it all, surely. Balance is the key. Be sure to share the secret when you find it :) Be happy
Just dont let the 'bastards' grind u down to the point where it gets to u cause at the end of day what valley wag say or A'listers (who are they) will be just google web history the next day. What you held in your arms is improtant for the next day and the day after. That is the stuff that makes world changes.
oh and enjoy the peace and quiet before your new little one appears on the scene cause u wont have this time again probably not for another 18 years :-).
P.S Make Sure you got a ton of hard drives, SD memory cards, DVD's and a lot of bandwidth and $$$ for hosting cause once mini scoble arrives, you will be posting like crazy on flickr etc etc.
That is blogging
"Anyway, have a great week and while I’m not blogging I’d love it if you left some ideas on things you’d like me to learn for when I get back."
I think you should quit blogging actually.
20 straight posts on facebook should have been the breaking point but you went on.
If you come back, don't blog as much, and make the posts quality posts rather than quantity. You said you were going to the gym, you obviously didn't and chose to keep compulsively blogging instead. I on the other hand did go to the gym and lost 20 pounds so far.
1 blog post per week with good content is better than 20 unedited raw videos that look like the subject took themselves with a handi-cam.
Well, there's my opinion. I bet you're sorry you asked for them now.
I wish you the best.
We should all focus on making the world better (especially me!)
http://flickr.com/photos/blogumentary/336471728/
I have been enjoying your blog, and learning a lot. I got a such a kick out of your enthusiasm over the iPhone - it was as good as owning one myself. You are fun to read because of your passion.
Take care. Best wishes, whatever you are doing.
Next post occurs April 15th. Break time= 5 days.
May 26th 2006, after the passing of his mother, Scoble says he's taking a "week off" to "ponder". Says he will see us on or about June 4th.
http://scobleizer.com/2006/05/26/the-questionin...
Next post is on May 29th. Total "pondering" time? 2 days.
Aug 3 2006, "off the grid" on some boondoggle to Montana. Stays "off" a total of 2 days. Then on his way back, in a rare show of fortitude, he keeps his word and is off a week. Aug 9-13, 2006.
Dec 22, 2006, 11:12 am says in a post he is "off until Tuesday
http://scobleizer.com/2006/12/22/one-more-post/
then posts at 5:18 the same day, followed by keeping his word and not posting until following Tuesday. Half credit for fortitude.
March 26, 2007, in a show of support for Sierra committs to "taking a week off" http://scobleizer.com/2006/12/22/one-more-post/
Scoble's definition of week turns out to be 4 days.
I'm doubling down on this "break" lasting 4 days.
So you do add value.
Chuck
When blogging started, people were enthralled with its raw honesty, its "nakedness" as Robert's book well described it. It seemed so liberating. No stuffy "professionalism."
What people forgot, or never knew, is that professionalism wasn't created as an arbitrary set of rules imposed from above to squelch people's enjoyment of work. "Being professional" was created ad hoc, so that people could work together effectively. Professional standards of personal conduct were imposed to to stop tension, upset, anger, drama, even violence.
Now all that protection is gone, at least online.
In a perfect world, bloggers could be as open and free as they want to be and as most of their audience enjoys them being, but we all know that this isn't a perfect world. There will always be the hateful few who go out of their way to cause upset, which leads to anger and more upset, and around and around we go.
The Wild, Wild West had to be tamed by force because too many people were getting hurt. I contend that if we don't want rules imposed on us, then we should each impose standards of conduct on ourself. If you don't like the words "being professional" then let's think of some other way to describe this time-tested standard of personal conduct and teach people what the heck it really means.
Here's a down and dirty list of what being professional means:
1) Do not manipulate others with dishonesty
2) Keep your word and follow through on commitments
3) Be respectful but don't act too friendly, unless you truly mean to make the person a real friend
4) Avoid getting too personal
5) Don't take advantage of people, but make every transaction or encounter as win-win as possible.
Heaven knows I've been far from professional online at times. Many times. I for one am rethinking that. Despite the stuffy, old-fashioned name, professionalism is a good standard to keep.
I'm going to work to figure out the line for #4.
I have read or scanned many of the 102 notes above. They are largely really supportive, caring and heartfelt. Your writing about Steve Ball's daughter and your coming baby resonated with people and touched them.
I am reminded of an article I read last night in People magazine(ok, I confess, it's an escape! but hey, it's easy to read at the gym) about Elizabeth Edwards: "We spend our lives weaving a tapestry of sorts. The largest ribbons are our family and closest friends. The other people we weave in are what gives our life its texture and its strength. And when life takes a wrong turn -- as it will for all of us -- that tapestry becomes a blanket we wrap around us."
I think your broader community here is offering a very warm and protective blanket. Take that support and whatever time you need to find out what really matters to you now, and enjoy your baby.
I am impressed by the level of understanding and support these 102 comments above mine show. I think what you wrote about Steve Ball's daughter and your unborn son resonated with people, brought us all back to what really matters.
From a new chaper to her book, by Elizabeth Edwards: "We spend our lives weaving a tapestry of sorts. The largest ribbons are our family and closest friends. The other people we weave in are what gives our life its texture and its strength. And when life takes a wrong turn-- as if will for all of us -- that tapestry becomes a blanket we can wrap around us. As I have so many times."
So take this beautiful blanket of understanding that people are creating, take as long as you want to find out what you really want to do, and enjoy and love your new baby.
2) Avoid passion; be moderate
3) Make rules and follow them
4) Don't be spontaneous
5) Be serious at all times
4) a void pretending to get too personal.
I write a somewhat nasty blog but I think the point of it all, like most cynicism, is that life is pretty good theres just a lot of bad stuff that gets in the way sometimes.
I think it's best to remember that being cynical is healthy, but don't lose the plot. Be selective about what you're cynical about.
Be cynical about a site like valleywag for instance, where underneath its rebel tone, it's very much apart of the austere "personality" of the silicon valley itself.
But its necessary. With all the egos and sycophants in the silicon valley and in tech itself, it's nice to see someone who is in it and not of it.
I think maybe thats what valleywag was going for in it inception and sort of lost the plot too.
Even if people are pompous a-holes, they are still people and their feelings get hurt, and sometimes they change.
I dunno.
I'd like to see you ask more web and tech people how their products improve people's lives, if at all.
Well, Valleywag obviously won this war.
Though I think him stopping blogging is ultimately for the best. Who would like to see Robert do real journalism?
Can he?
I'm not even sure, but I think he should give it a try.
In order for me to except something as having value, it must give me something, knowledge, power, information, status, or money. This I assume, is the same for everybody. You have a strong following of thousands of people, and one thing I learned about the world of blogging , is that it has a very short memory. If you do not keep the interest alive, you will wither and die.
Given these little perls, maybe it is not you that is failing in giving value, but the blogging world in not giving you value, you did hold this up to some high expectations.
You have shown the world who you are and what you belive, and the world (blogging that is) told you what they thought of it.
I have to say, that when I can, I enjoy your point of view and ubnique slant on things, I do not agree with some of your antics (politics are bad), but it is who you are.
At the end of the day, it does not matter that when you put 3 people in a discussion, they will not agree.
You are still one of my favorite bloggers and the comments you receive are interesting to read in themselves.
I agree with Shel, go take a walk and smell the provibable flowers.
Guy
116 responses, he got his value out of this. I give it a month tops. I wonder why it took me so long to figure it out.
At any rate, we have a new video up on the BCS home page, so click "Chris" the link below my post if you want to see what I do every day.
With so much stuff out there, it's very hard to find a balance between those who post too much, post too little, or do/don't add enough value. Simply linking to something that I wouldn't have otherwise seen (and am interested in) adds value in and of itself. But I've found that the vast majority of the feed I have used don't do that, nor do they add commentary that is particularly valuable.
Your videos on the other hand are quite good, some of them (like the IBM lawyer, excellent), so I guess I need to figure out how to monitor them (I'll still pass on the photo-walkings, and you standing in line for Apple products etc.)
Keep up the GOOD work.
Argument rather than discourse.
For what it's worth Robert, I've enjoyed your work - was concerned that you were getting into too many rows lately and can tell you from experience becoming a father will change you.
Perhaps this post about identity will offer something?:
http://fasterfuture.blogspot.com/2007/08/i-am-p...
What about him going to the gym to lose weight?
He never did that either apparently because of his blogging.
Every single person in our office goes to the gym every day now after work. No one in our office wastes time blogging. Blogging is a TERRIBLE policy for employees. It wastes time and it accomplishes nothing.
http://www.beercosoftware.com
You know what I think you need? A trip to Yosemite. Or anywhere outdoors. Just unplug for a few days. I always find that nature brings me back down to earth.
I've been a reader for a while. We almost met at Foo Camp 2-3 years ago, once.
Anyway, I stopped writing for about 2 years after doing a lot of writing -- I was Editor in Chief of LinuxWorld Magazine for while, wrote a Java book, wrote articles, blogged, etc. Then I stopped as I was going through a divorce and just lost my passion for it.
I let all my contacts languish, stopped following ideas, and just sort of went on auto-pilot for a while.
After a couple years I found my self wanting to write again, but not on the same topics I wrote on before. Instead of writing on Linux/Java/Programming/Culture like I did before, I started a blog on environmental issues.
In fact, it was my developing interest and passion for environmental issues that pulled me back to writing.
I don't think I could've written much that added value if I had forced myself to go back to writing too soon. Instead, I just let it go. When my passion came back, I just followed it and this is where it lead me.
So I'd say suspend your beliefs about writing and follow your heart -- when it's ready, your heart will let you know what to write about and when to start. It will take longer than you think, so don't rush.
And best of luck -- you'll be missed.
-kevin
http://www.21st-century-citizen.com
You rule. Though I read Linux Journal. LinuxWorld Mag I've only really seen free at Linux world in Toronto. Not sure where you can actually get that?
http://www.beercosoftware.com/pics/lw.jpg
"I let all my contacts languish, stopped following ideas, and just sort of went on auto-pilot for a while."
If you want you can have us do all your contracts for you, for a fraction of the cost, then keep the difference of money of what they actually pay you. We do C, C++, Java, Websphere, PHP, Perl, and any other type of Linux programming under the sun.
Your customers will be happy and keep paying you, and you'll get to keep all your high price contracts. If anything goes off, I will take care of it. I'm currently writing a massive search engine and SQL server.
Take Care Kevin.
There is so much more to the world then what you cover in your blog. You travel alot but do not cover the places you have seen. Why is that? Is it because you spend too much time stuck inside and do not have the ability to explore the world and all of the people that it contains? Perhaps. I like that you show that there are geeks from every part of the world and they are all trying to make the world a bit better in their own way. How about covering the geeks that are actually changing improvished countries by heloing their citizens learn how to adopt the digital age. You need to become more global and reach out to a greater audience.
Take care and be well,
Richard Callaby
You always add value and you're being too hard on yourself. Good luck and I look forward to your return...
Chris, you are such an ass. As a Christian, I don't normally call people names and would never do so lightly. But I'm sick to death of you. And you ARE an ass. God Himself surely knows it. He loves you anyway. I wish I were a good enough Christian to continue to ignor you. But this last post of yours has put me over the edge.
You've been commenting multiple times on every post Robert makes for months. You spend more time writing here than he does! And why? To advertise your software or whatever the heck it is you're peddling.
Talk about a waste of time! If this is your marketing strategy, it's the strategy of an ass and I feel sorry for your employees because their boss (or coworker or whatever the heck you are) is such an ass.
Have you ANY sense at all?? To sit here and tell us that nobody in your company blogs and that blogging is a waste of time when you've been spending months COMMENTING and COMMENTING and COMMENTING on this blog. Do you have any idea how STUPID and absurd and embarrassing that makes you look?
Yes, that's right, asinine.
1) the world has enough mommy bloggers
2) when they told you you could dig ditches, you said "no, I want to be a mouthpiece for the Evil Empire". Its going to take years to get the smell of that criminal organization off of you, so get used to it.
Well, I am going to take the high road here after reading all your obscenities, vulgarities and sullied adjectives.
I don't believe in blogging, but as long as people are going to talk about "almost losing contracts" due to emotional stress, I will damn sure offer them a fast and easy solution where they can go play golf and still collect on them having us do all the work.
Most people that are stressed to the breaking point with high level contracts are unaware that they can get us to do it using highly skilled Canadian educated computer science graduates to complete their work for them. They think that the only escape is to let the contracts go, or to hire somebody that is totally incompetent educated in a 3rd world school system using text books from the 1980s.
I only want to help(and make a modest amount of money at the same time).
I truly feel your frustration Dawn D., and I as a former Catholic can only hope that God heals you and gives you the strength not to read posts that you feel do not pertain to you, and to find peace.
May all the best be with you, and may you find the peace that reading my offer has taken from you.
Since you no longer believe in Catholicism, either, I can't help but wonder if you say a rosary every hour, too, and are transcribing the Deuterocanonical books of the Bible.
Have fun genuflecting constantly to what you don't believe in. I'll try harder to "suffer fools gladly" and go back to ignoring you.
Anyway, I'm sorry I verbally pummeled you. I shouldn't have. I do sincerely apologize and wish you the best.
If you 'are what you eat', you are just as surely what you read, and what you view. A friend pointed out to me the essential fact of humor - there is pain. Someone has to suffer, for there to be humor. You cannot have a joke or a prank without someone feeling hurt, confused, embarrassed, or looking stupid.
On the other hand, joy is something that we can share forever, and it only gets better. While you are so aware of pain, you might avoid humor and blogs and books and people that seem to have pain all about them. Look for joy or turn the channel, find another web site.
Also look for gossip. I consider gossip to be one of the true social evils, nothing good can come of gossip. Well, I guess some people can make a living collecting, distributing, and creating gossip, but their audience isn't better for the gossip, the people that are gossiped about aren't helped.
Children are scary. At the earliest ages they believe there is only truth in the world. They believe everything they see is true, they believe everything you tell them. You might practice hearing and seeing for truth, so you can help shape their understanding of the world.
Blessed be!
Good on you Robert. Thank you for keeping your standards so high.
When I see this blog, I see tens or perhaps hundreds of commenters that need an extra SLA or an extra hand doing contracts. I see people saying "I don't have time for this or that, or photo-walking or writing livejournal". "Robert's stuff adds so much value, I wish I could have that value"
Those people could easily profit from having a college grad pro helping them complete their work, whilst they do other things. Things such as Robert does on a daily basis.
If I did go to church and I saw some business people in the same predicament, I would have no choice but to let them know that there is help, and that we would be glad to help them.
BTW, If anybody is reading through. BCS can restock podtech with McGill, Laval and DEC grads for 1/2 to 1/3 the salaries you all are paying now. A/V grads, journalism grads, ect...
Not trying to be a tool. I'm just offering in case they would like the option. Solutions can often times be difficult, but you have to do what you have to do to keep going. We have volume discounts for 5 or more staff.
We can get them on location for a small fee, and a work permit fee and the required allotment time if work in the US from Canada is required. Definitely the video editing, and the write ups we could easily handle for them.
Relax. You'll be back in no time. This business would wear anybody out.
Consider what Victor Hugo said:
"Have courage for the great sorrows of life and patience for the small ones; and when you have laboriously accomplished your daily task, go to sleep in peace. God is awake."
You really don't think you are spamming this blog? whatever you've said in your defense would perfectly apply to an un solicited spam e-mail.
Either stop spamming this blog or stop defending the spam...
Seriously though mate - have a good break and we will see you next week ;)
If a church or a business or any other non-virtual establishment had a Chris on their doorstep, he would be asked politely to leave and if not, the police would be called.
I don't understand why bloggers put up with things on their virtual property that they wouldn't put up with on real property. "Free speech" doesn't mean you are obliged to give anybody and everybody a platform, no matter what they say or do.
What are you implying here?
I go to many establishments and the authorities are never called. As a matter of fact, I help people with their HR and IT problems regularly. Don't you think you are exaggerating just a little bit? Or perhaps you need a reality check?
Either way you don't project the values of Christianity at all in my opinion. Scoble's marketing platform, what I refer to internally as Scoble 2.0 is a great place for merchants to exchange information and to do commerce. If you as a spectator can not see the value in that, then that's fine.
I wish you all the best. Really.
So I expect you to respond with some kind of factual information clarifying your position or statement or to make a retraction. I think it's only fair.
Talking to people here and there is one thing. You have very rudely made Robert's blog (something you claim to not believe in) a store front for yourself. You're not just quietly mingling in with the crowd and trying to help people you come across. You've constructed a shop right on Robert's porch and are increasingly putting out more and more neon signs.
And, no, I don't think I'm exaggerating. If you pulled this in the real world, you WOULD be arrested.
Come on, this is not your personal space. You really are encroaching, and being like a bad guest. I would venture to say that you are only acting in such a manner since Robert is not here, nor most like not reading the words (read: sales pitch) that you are posting here. You want Americans to have to lower their standards and payscale to 1/3 or 1/2 of what they are making now. I double dare you to tell that to my spouse who has worked very hard at his career for almost a 1/4 century with the same company, and well at that. Some person, you, claim, that you can come from Canada, and do it cheaper and better? Sure..why not take your marketing to a spot where it really belongs. Somehow, I do not see this as the proper platform. Just my humble, not so wide awake opinion.
"But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ."
Rom 14:10
"Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way."
Rom 14:13
Comparing Scoble to God is blasphemy in any religion.
"And, no, I don’t think I’m exaggerating. If you pulled this in the real world, you WOULD be arrested."
No I would not. I feel your false comments have unfairly harmed me and I am considering action. You may post a retraction at any time if you like.
To which Chris responded:
"If you want you can have us do all your contracts for you, for a fraction of the cost"
He said "contacts", Chris, not "contracts". It's best to slow down and pay attention before you make your sales pitch or any other comment. A large chunk of words in this comment thread are devoted to your promoting and justifying based on your own misreading.
I'm surprised Robert has tolerated your comments for so long. They detract from the value. Dawn was simply willing to speak out loud what most readers here have been thinking, and you can't take action against everyone.
Robert, take what ever time you need and we'll miss you and be happy when you're back!
While you're collecting evidence, perhaps you can give your lawyer copies of all the malicious comments and accusations you've made against Robert, too, like his "disingenuous" break from blogging.
If you insist.
Nothing I said about Robert was with malicious intent. If Robert cites something wrong I wrote, I would be happy to issue a retraction to remedy the situation.
Go up to the local Best Buy or anywhere else that your potential clients hang out and walk around on the property all day shoving your flyers in people's faces. You'll be asked to leave. If you don't, you'll be arrested. That's what I said, and it's a fact. There is no "retraction" that would "remedy" that fact.
But when I read something like this, from someone who has recently cast the hypocritical stone at others, it bugs me. You have said on many occasions that you don't need to get all the facts right in the blog, you let others sort it out in the comments - "that's the great thing about blogs" is one statement I recall. This is clearly part of your operating philosophy about blogging.
So why is it ok for you to get the facts wrong and let others figure it out, but not ok in the reverse? For the same reason I was upset when you cast an incorrect shadow over what we were trying to do with the Social Media Release - it hurts when people are wrong about you and what you are doing - it feels, and in some cases is, personal. This is why I talk about modeling right action, promoting ethics and sharing best practices - why we, as Bloggers, should learn to uphold certain aspects of journalistic integrity (though its a mostly free world and no one HAS to do so, leaders should lead by example). So we can help lift up the world and help more people see how we think things should be instead of how they are.
Have you read "The Four Agreements" yet? If not, now is a good time to do so - very powerful stuff in there - might be very enlightening at this time.
I am sorry this has been a difficult time for you - transitions like the one at Podtech are not easy. Being in the spotlight in front of so many is not easy. Making the world better is not easy. The thing is, your heart is in the right place, you have love in your life and you have many real friends for support - make the most of that.
Your friend,
Chris
ps, I would have emailed you, but you don't get them, so feel free to delete this if you would like...
My clients aren't normally best buy shoppers. Your comparison is not accurate, and your implications and statements are false. Your assertions following your claim are based on an original false claim which make them just as or more invalid.
Now you persist these claims. I will have no choice but to seek remedy. I am no longer discussing this with you.
Blatantly using Scoble's comments to advertise his business, shameful.
Threatening legal ramifications when others criticise him, pathetic.
If this ever came to court and I was the judge, Id say your own words have potentially lost you more business than anybody elses criticism of you, I would run a mile rather than deal with someone like you.
Point: "Bob tried to sell me a car"
Criticism: "I felt Bob was annoying"
Libel: "Bob did something worthy of being carried off by the police, Bob committed a crime."
I for one do not mix one with the other. Happy mile run.
I just got back from backpacking in the Yosemite Wilderness. Unplugging is healthy. I learned not to get disheartened by the bears...they only want food, or sweetsmelling things. I didn't take any attacks personally.
I wish you and your family all the best, and enjoy your pause.
D
Except, I have let you down. It is all take and I don't give back to you - to let you know that maybe you did have an impact. I have forgotten (thank you for reminding me) that this IS a two way street. Words that we say can hurt, but words that we don't say can hurt even more!
So, I would like to make a pact with you - and others who blog - Please continue to communicate and I will tell you more often how your comments have impacted me... and I will always remember that I should consider that words, even on a blog, can hurt!
Greg
Here's a defamatory statement for you: Your software is embedded with spyware!
Now what are you gonna do? I dare you to do something!
Stop being a little pussy and realize that your marketing strategy needs to change.
I believe that blogs and better communication/colaboration can make people smarter. But you have to remember that when human beings are involved a lot of stupid stuff is gonna happen on the way to becoming smarter. It's the way it is. Sometimes it's good to remember that.
Take care of yourself.
But I DID badly go against my own good advice and didn't stay professional in my original comments. Still, I do think this points to something that is deserving of discussion.
Personalities aside, if any blog has a shameless perpetual huckster, or a tiresome troll who won't shut up, etc., at what point, if any, is it okay for the audience to declare that enough is enough?
What's a blogger's responsibility to his general audience? Does one person's good trump the overall good? For example, is protecting one person's financial desires more important that protecting the experience of the overall audience?
More broadly, does a blogger and his or her audience have to put up with bad behavior in the name of free speech or under threat of being sued?
Is there such a thing as "rights of the whole" when it comes to a blogger's audience???
I personally don't think that an individual's right to freedom of expression trumps all reason and common decency. Like I said, nobody is required to give anybody else a platform to spew whatever he or she wishes.
In the real world, people remove themselves from such people until the offender is speaking to a wall. But with blogs, we're all captured in the same space and if we want to follow the discussion, we're forced to wade through the mounting crap.
Of course, we have the right to walk away ourselves and let the basest of people win. Seems to me that's a poor solution. Putting up with bad behavior just creates more of it as our standards as a society continue to collapse into the muck of "anything goes because any self expression is good and who are we to judge behavior."
Clue to LayZ: "Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment" (John 7:24). The idea of rightly judging **the behavior** of others can, in fact, be found throughout the Bible. What you cite is talking about judging a person's soul, which only God can do.
In the end, it must be up to the blogger to manage his or her own audience and figure out what to do with troublesome commenters, if anything. I'd just like to suggest that "making the world better" surely includes not rolling over to people who make it worse.
Free speech does not include making false statements with malicious intent towards an individual.
I am not sure yet, but I think I will be filing the original complaint.
"But I DID badly go against my own good advice and didn’t stay professional in my original comments."
This sounds like an admission. If you would simply care to retract your original false statement, I would be willing to drop this. I think that's reasonable enough.
My "original false statement" which you seem to be upset about, given what you wrote in #160, is your wrong notion that I called you a criminal. I didn't.
But if it makes you feel better, I don't think you "committed a crime" nor "did something worthy of being carried off by the police."
I do not want any trouble, but I do not want to be misrepresented either.
Thanks
Look at what you did, you have LayZ talking about religion, and everybody swapping barbs.
Its been several comments since anybody said anything techie.
Crap
Guy
But, even if you missed that there's a HUGE difference between totally making shit up about someone (he was fired) to getting some "shading" wrong about an idea that was being discussed.
When I wrote about the Social Media Press Release I was discussing an idea. If I got it wrong, you should have pointed out how I did. I seem to remember you doing that. I also seem to remember linking back to your updates.
That's TOTALLY DIFFERENT than what a certain "gossip" site did to me (and is continuing to do to me).
Chris: I think you've lost your rights to participate in my community here. When I do start blogging again I'm going to start blocking your messages.
Sorry to do this, but I've gotten so many complaints about your behavior here that I'm no longer going to put up with it. I don't tolerate people who threaten to sue other commenters. That's not fair behavior here.
I understand. I'm also sure you know you could have stopped Valleywag and others long ago but chose not to as your strategy.
I'll keep reading it.
Whoa!!! I think we need a ruling here. Does Scoble commenting on HIS OWN BLOG count as being back???? If so,I'll take my winnings in cash as we've snapped the "streak" at 4 days, which was my bet.
Can we get a ruling on this? ;-)
I am really glad to know that your little one will have such great parents, its always been obvious how much you care about your family and the world around us. When I began my journey into being a blogger, I kept hearing your name and decided to check your place out. I was taken with how kind you were, how you really went all out to explain things for newbies like myself, and how you just seemed to be a really nice guy.
I hope you get to relax and enjoy your new baby when he gets here, but I also hope your not away too long because your a big influence on so many of us!
all the best :-)
Pimping his company constantly here (the only one doing so),
threatening lawsuits (in a comment thread !?! thats called a troll),
bragging about going to the gym,etc. etc.
is not the best way to attract customers.
The candle on the cake is misreading contacts as contracts
Kent Beck on ease at work
I think this is core to bofhing v constructive dialogue; the 'no capes' approach to stuff.
It also feels a good fit for thoughts like Jimmy Wales' suggestion some time back that we need to 'disagree safely'.
I think wikis are teaching us much about the skills we need to develop in order to have free participative spaces where we use good skills instead of fences to keep things constructive and usefully negotiable.
I agree, particapating in your own blog is blogging
Guy
Suddenly my interest in following Scobleizer shot up a 100%...
Thinking blogs would be any different is naive. And even so, I share your feelings...
just wanted to tell you that you made a BIG difference in my world. We met at an event on my first day in the US, my first day in Silicon Valley and you are one of the nicest people I met since I came to this area.
You introduced me to ppl, showed me the original hp garage and took me with you to sf new tech meetup.
You're a great guy and I'll never forget how you treated me when nobody else gave a shit.
Thanks again
Steli
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