Over the last few days I’ve taken the time to really think and reflect about this IBOT linky, as I’ve structured some goals to make the whole event hopefully better for one and all.
The word that keeps coming to mind, is community.
There are many link ups in the blogosphere. You can join one or several every day of the week, with different themes, topics and guidelines.
But not one of them is like IBOT, because I Blog on Tuesdays, has, and always will be, built on community.
It’s not just another place to dump your latest post and run; it’s where we catch up with our friends. It’s where we can have a cup of tea with Crodie, and watch her claymation. Where we can giggle at the randomness of CJ’s motley tribe.
Where BlunderMum makes us all laugh, where Deb gives us helpful tips, and B let’s us all know what we should be wearing this week.
We come back to find out what’s happening with Brian, where Ai has been eating, what Drew and Yvette have been chatting about, and what Rhianna has made matter.
It’s the online place to be.
What has built this wonderful Tuesday community has been its participants commitment to commenting. We don’t write blogs so that no one reads them, or to talk to ourselves. We write them to be heard.
Because we have something to say.
Or share.
Or rant about.
Possibly even vlog.
Commenting is the agent by which one blogger says to another, ‘I came, I read, I heard you.’
And there is nothing more important than that.
It’s not just in a blogging community that the need to be heard is paramount; it’s everywhere.
All of us, as human beings feel the desire to belong, be loved and be known. As part of the race called humanity, we all have a responsibility to one another to listen and to be involved in each others lives.
We don’t have the freedom to just go through our world, thinking it is all, or only, about us.
On Thursday, the 13th of September, it is RUOK day; a time when we all consider the importance of having a conversation, with someone who might really need it.
Last year, the Aussie blogosphere jumped on board with a mammoth sized link up, and this year, a similar event will be happening.
To ensure the emotional and mental safety of all those involved, and those writing, the RUOKDay Bloggers Stories of Inspiration, will run as a Digital Parents Blog Carnival, under strict mind frame guidelines.
You can get more information on that here.
The idea of RUOK day, is to get people talking. Bottling up feelings and emotions is hardly helpful for anyone, and it is often the fear of no one understanding, and the feeling of supreme isolation that cause people to react in a permanent way.
Basically, it’s about making sure that everyone is heard.
Just like IBOT.
Are you listening to the people in your world?
How are you going. R U OK?
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RUOK is such an important initiative. I counsel for life line, and I hear stories of loneliness and desperation every time. Connection is sometimes the only thing that helps. One of my fundamental beliefs is connection to others…it is so essential to our happiness and sustanence as humans. I will definitely be part of this. Zanni x
Zanni, Heart Mama recently posted..A date with my past
Good on you Zanni for being a volunteer like that.
I’m a huge believer in connection. Depression is a very isolating disease. Even though you know in your head your not alone, you feel like you are. It can be hard to break that mindset, which is why it’s so important that we have others help us with it.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
I love the way you’ve described IBOT – it is definitely a community. Big credit for you for creating the special place that it is. Thanks for including me! I’m honoured!
xx
RUOK sounds really interesting – I’ll def look at writing something.
Am I ok? have a look at the last line of my post
Catherine Rodie Blagg @CoTaaB recently posted..Getting naked. In public
Thanks for being part of it! You are so valued because I know you get around and try to visit others, and this what makes it what it is.xxx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
Nice post Jess and so true. I began blogging as a way of healing my soul I guess, it’s been through so much this past year and yet it’s been the first time I’ve actually followed my dream of writing about things that matter to me, sharing knowledge I’ve learnt about children and education and sharing some of my pain as I recover – both to be heard as a salve, and to let others know who may be going through the same things that they are not alone … and like u say here not to become frozen in a bad space. I really look forward to the RUOK link up and am enjoying becoming part of this community, too. Thank you.
Bachelormum recently posted..On the road!
I Completley understand this. For writers especially, I think the act of just putting pen to paper (or finger to keyboard as the case may be!) is a huge help for the healing process. It’s allowing us to be who we are meant to be, which is immediately a great reliever of stress for our worn out minds.
Thanks for joining in. Xxx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
Amen to that!
As a past sufferer of depression, I know how important it is. How alone you can feel.
Also going through the same thing with my sister in law after the death of my brother last year. Just hearing the words ‘I’m here’, can make a huge difference.
Well put Jess
xxx
Tracey @ Bliss Amongst Chaos recently posted..The Faerie Picnic
Good on you Tracey for being there for your sister. I’m sure that is a huge sens of support for her, especially knowing you got through it and came out the other side. Xxx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
I do feel like I’m part of the IBOT community and I’ve found that most IBOT linkers are very generous and thoughtful with thier comments.
I love the RUOK message and fully support it. Last year showed all bloggers how they can make a difference and that was the main campaign that stood out for me.
Penny recently posted..A Protective Tree (Short Tale Tuesday)
It was great to see everyone get involved, and I think getting the message that we can all help across, is vitally important.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
I love that I’m a part of your IBOT community! Let’s hope Brian doesn’t disappoint this week! x
Lauren/y recently posted..Meeting the Boyfriend
Im looking forward to finding out!
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
The main reason I read IBOT (with risk of sounding wanky and a suck up) is that I love your posts Jess as they are always interesting no matter the topic and you have a great writing style. Second reason is I find a lot of great blogs that I am following now. I don’t get to read all of them each week but pick at least 3-5. I always try and leave comments to the ones I have read and it makes me smile and feel part of the community when an IBOT’er comments on mine especially when I don’t post mine sometimes till 11pm at night lol.
I will be participating in RUOKDay this year, writing from a partner’s perspective. I’m not sure how yet but am looking forward to sharing but also a bit nervous about it too!
Very passionate about reducing the stigma associated with mental health.
Thanks! Have a great IBOT day.
Neen recently posted..Sunday Reflections w/e 26.8.2012
Naaw Neen, you can suck up anyway!
I appreciate any effort to read and comment. There are no rules, just a genuine attitude of respect that’s important.
As for RUOK day, you have a few weeks to think about how to best write it, and there are some guidelines and checklists on the DP site that will help. I’m sure that you will do a wonderful job. Xxx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
Ooo I remember RUOK day last year. It made such an impact and I’ll check out the details for the blog carnival later. Now that you’ve mentioned it, I do post a lot on food haha.
Let I said last week, thanks for building this community
I can only see it getting bigger and better!
Ai Sakura recently posted..Little Girls Hairstyles: Coloured Hair Extensions {Braided}
I probably notice the food cause I’m such a fussy eater and often think ‘why would anyone eat that!’
and then I wish I was as brave with food as you. 
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
I love this linky, so many awesome bloggers coming together, so many awesome posts to read. I’m also a supporter of RUOK day, so count me in! Great work Jess x
Kelly @ HT and T recently posted..Potato, pumpkin, pear and puke: Starting solids is so much fun
Thanks Kellie. Be great to have you on board. Xx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
It is about community – I always feel the iBOT love
MsMandie recently posted..Big Person Trouble
Well we do love you. Even if you break the hearts of iMacs everywhere.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
Community is a wonderful thing to feel a part of. You’ve done a great job of creating that with IBOT Jess. I just got back from a community lunch of more than 500 people in Margaret River. I bet all those people felt an overwhelming sense of belonging underneath that giant marquee. Love your work, Jess xxx
Fiona @ My Mummy Daze recently posted..A Fairy Long Lunch
It’s important to feel part of something, and not like your the only fish in the sea. I love that bloggers can come here and feel that. I really don’t care about the numbers at all. Just that the people feel the love.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
So very true Jess, connection means everything. It can give hope and comfort when there is none. Thank you so much for providing this platform for sharing and for also reminding us of the wonderful community that blogging is x
You’re very welcome Shari. Xx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
Thankyou so much for this post and also for the opportunity to join this link up. I’m in some ways still a newbie blogger and still don’t have any idea where I’m heading with it all. One of the most important things I find with this link up is as you say the community. Seeing familiar names and faces, having a laugh, being thoughtful. it also makes me feel as though I’m not just writing to no one, that someone out there in this huge blogging world is seeing things through my eyes. Just for a moment.
I lost my brother when I was 13 to suicide and I will definitely be joining in the Inspiration event.
Thankyou
Renay@MummysMiracles recently posted..You’re So Vain
So many bloggers started joining IBOT when they were newbies, and it provided a great platform for them to launch off of, which is one of the reasons why we host it. There are tips on a page at the top of the blog for getting the most out of a link up, if you’re ever interested.
I’m sorry about your brother. That must have been realy tough on you. Xx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
Hi Jess, thanks for the information on RUOK, sounds new and interesting to me. And of course, thank you for hosting iBOT because it’s awesome how we can come back every Tues to link up, read updates on other blogs, have a good laugh and stay in touch. All thanks to you. Cheers! =)
Summer recently posted..Tunisia – Our first steps into Africa
I can post the link, but it’s the people who join that make it great. I can’t take the credit for that unfortunately.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
I’m new to blogging but I jumped onto IBOT straight away and I love it. I usually dump my link and run in the mornings and then curl up with my laptop whilst watching Masterchef/X Factor/{insert trash tv here} and read through everyone’s amazing posts. I need to comment more though! That’s my bloggy goal for September!
Yay for bloggy goals!
There are always great reads on a Tuesday, but I might be slightly biased.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
i am a spasmodic member of IBOT community. I agree with your post though and I do try to visit most bloggers and leave a comment when time and health permits. have been away last few weeks though but hope to be back into it! My contribution this week is http://lookingoutabrokenwindow.blogspot.com.au/2010/11/mothers-instinct.html
You should be proud of the community you have built here Jess. I love IBOT, I love the inclusive feeling it brings with it, and I love finding new high quality blogs each week. It is the only linky I have come across that people actually make an effort to visit others that have linked up, and not in a ‘wanky’ ‘you comment on mine and I’ll comment on yours’ way – you have fostered a group of people from all different walks of life, with differing opinions and views, but with a love of words and stories xxxxx
Hi,
Just discovered IBOT. I love the way you described the concept.
Looking forward to getting to know everyone.
Sally recently posted..Kids Flying Solo
I meant to come post a long meaningful comment, but I got caught up on the Second Life of Brian and now I’m running late for work! I loved your video but part of it was cut off, like I couldn’t see the whole screen? Do you have a youtube link or something?
Aroha @ Colours of Sunset recently posted..Warning: It’s A Political Rant #IBOT
Not sure what happened, but here is the URL
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..The Importance of Being Heard
FABBY FABBY FABBY post!! Just how IBOT is suppose to be!
(and a big thankyou for mentioning me n Drew’s chats!)
YES R U OK day is on my agenda. I will be linking up!
You have officially been visited by a member of #teamIBOT
Yvette Bowyer recently posted..welcome the treasure tent
It’s an amazing community you have built here Jess. Rachel x
Rachel from Redcliffe Style recently posted..5 things that annoyed me yesterday and 5 things that didn’t
Fantastic community that’s an honour to be a member of. Thank you Jess. May we continue to help build it to dizzying heights.
xxXOoo
carmen recently posted..How to tell your teenage son is home.
I think this is a great idea, and really kind and generous of you more successful bloggers. I came over to check it out but my laptop has just gone insane so your page is dancing over the screen when ever I move my mouse. So maybe next Tuesday…
Lydia C. Lee recently posted..What I learnt from Total Recall:
It also needs to be said that I’ve been following your IBOT concept on Twitter, but as I still don’t understand Twitter, 6 weeks in, I am slow to jump on board (Everyone else, take that as an apology in advance if I’m not following ettiquette. Just old, not rude).
Lydia C. Lee recently posted..What I learnt from Total Recall:
Another fantastic post. Thank you again for hosting.
Happy Little Feet recently posted..DIY teeth whitener
I am OK, Jess. Thank you for asking. R U OK? x
I’ve missed you! And everyone. But I’m back online, baby, and already the community you speak so beautifully of has welcomed me back with open arms. I heart blogging.
Emily recently posted..I’m proud to be a stay-at-home mum
I have not much more to say nor elaborate upon. Except for letting you know that a) I remembered to link! And b) I love ya guts so much I’d still love you if you shaved your head.
Daisy recently posted..On road trips, Parramatta and motel security bonds (Oscar’s cardio check up, Part One)
I got a mention! I got a mention! Thanks for the track back! Very cool!
I have just marked the RUOK day on my blog calendar – will definitely be a part of that. I have a friend called PND and I little thing called ‘Adrenal Fatigue’ I get asked RUOK a lot – and I am so thankful for those who do ask. It is not an easy question to ask {or answer} but, it is soooooo important.
Good on you for advocating this in this way – you are totally totally awesome! Love your work!
B recently posted..Drawing: Draw Me September + Printable
I’m new to the IBOT community, but thanks for making me feel welcome
and also for informing about the RUOK campaign which is a fabulous initiative.
Helen recently posted..Teaching your child emotions with tiny teddies
The thing I love most of all about IBOT is the amazing community! I’ve ‘met’ some awesome bloggers thanks to this little group and each week I have the opportunity to read fabulous pieces of work by clever writers. Thanks for all your hard work with this link Jess, we all appreciate it xx
workingwomenaus recently posted..Building a new office
I love this post, I have been going through just a hard time end of August is my own personal Hell for me. I posted last thursday about my main cause of depression at this time and have been in one on one contact with two people who understand my unique circumstances. What I love is the opportunity all blogging communities bring. I really appreciate your post miss Jess xx
tarah recently posted..Sweet memories: celebrating 6 rollercoaster years
RUOK Is an initiative close to my heart and to the whole reason for my blog being. As a sufferer of depression and anxiety, I know just how debilatating mental health is. I started my blog as a way to express how I am feeling, focus on positives and to talk about what I feel is important.
Connecting with those around you is hard to do if, like me you have depression or anxiety, but it can be the greatess for of healing if done with support from those around you.
Lisa recently posted..Illness, Depression and Family Life
Not too okay here at the moment Jess. But hopefully getting there. Thanks for asking. xxx
Robyn (@slightly_deep) recently posted..My breastfeeding journey
IBOT is such an awesome community and I am so so pleased to be a part of TeamIBOT. Jess you should be so proud of what you have created here, a truly unique and caring environment for bloggers from all walks of life.
Fairy wishes and butterfly kisses lovely
Rhianna recently posted..Thirty Awesome Things I Know About Me
I loved your whole description of the community and the individuals you mentioned – it felt like reading about friends and i love that (and thanks for including me). i cannot believe how many people are linking up these ;last few weeks – it feels like just yesterday you were getting excited as we hit 50 and look now 68 as i type this.
thanks for highlighting RUOK day as well. i was not sure if was going to join again as last year i was new to blogging linked up and got no comments (it actually caused a small funk / relapse for me). But then i realized – i have a community now and don’t think i would be left hanging this year and i will personally visit and make sure no blogger is left with no comments as i felt awful last year. i actually make a point to comment on any post i read that has no comments anywhere – hate 0 comment posts!
Deb @ Home life simplified recently posted..40 after 40 – Life list
shit Deb! Didn’t realise! Sorry darling. I started reading them with the aim of reading every single one BUT it became too much for me. thanks for highlighting your experience though, I am really truly sorry that that happened to you. You will most certainly not be left hanging PLUS I just found a job for you for the event! tops!
xxx gem
gemma {my big nutshell} recently posted..5 traits of a successful SAHM and Working Mum
Thanks for the reminder
RUOK Day is totally in my diary. As a mentor/coach it’s an issue close to my heart. Cheers.
Leanne @ Deep Fried Fruit
Leanne @ Deep Fried Fruit recently posted..Day 1058 – Taxidermy?
There seems to be a huge groundswell at the moment to naming of the space that we all live in online as a place of storytelling – nothing can ever be as important as the space we give each other to tell our little pieces about our lives. Its the best way of showing if we are OK and a great place to reach out if we are not. x
Sarah recently posted..Into the middle distance
“Commenting is the agent by which one blogger says to another, ‘I came, I read, I heard you.’
And there is nothing more important than that.”
This just sums up everything I love about this community. How lucky we are to be a part of it
Thanks Jess!
The IBOT community rocks. I’ve been sad to miss out on the fun the last couple of weeks. Every community needs a hub, Jess & you are an awesome one. Love your R U OK day message xx
Nee Say recently posted..Lego storage & play space
I love the community Jess… It makes me come back – not every week.. but I know its always there, that mutual support is something that I really have relished from the blogging commenting! Reaching out and checking in with people! I tend to do it more now that I have had issues of my own, and know that question can really open up a conversation!
The video was really touching too! You are a true wonder xxx
Jane Hallisey recently posted..Partying with the Pink leopard!
Hi Jess,
It has been such a good experience watching you grow your community here. I love being part of it too. The commenters have all told you how much it means to them, and that’s such a compliment to you.
I cannot get the vlog to play without cutting out at the moment, so will try again.
Thank you for all you and TeamIbot do to keep the spirit of community going.
Love Denyse
Denyse Whelan Education Specialist recently posted..Lessons I Am Learning. Blogging for Social Good.
As a newbie and a Dad I’ve been struck by how welcoming and supportive IBOT and its “members” have been. This really is a great little part of the interweb
Kevin recently posted..My 3rd Fathers day performance review…
Thank you Jess for your work with IBOT! Your open and fun personality is what drives this little community and I think you have attracted a lot of likeminded people in this gathering.
I love reading IBOT posts…. even if it does take me a week to get through them all and the list is growing every week!
Carly recently posted..Summer style – my most worn items this summer
Jess thank you so much for IBOT, this is only my third week and I’ve found some great blogs. Love you post as well today abount belonging and RUOK day. x
Leanne @ Uber Simplicity recently posted..uber celebrations {corporate dinner party}
I love the IBOT group.. and I promise to find time to comment a bit more!
xx
Jess – I just want to say thanks (again) for IBOT. I read some yesterday and more today. I have just read 6 new bloggers who I would never have found otherwise. Your Tuesday is going to be my reading for the next few days. So much easier and more variety than the blog roll thingo …
Thanks for daring, sharing and caring
Leanne @ Deep Fried Fruit
Leanne @ Deep Fried Fruit recently posted..Day 1059 – Nanna Naps
I love the community you have created hun and whilst I dont always link up (and you know why and I know what you are going to say:) I always come and visit and read many of the posts. What you have created is such an inspirational place, a place where new bloggers and veterans feel safe and welcome, a place where they can speak their mind share their heart and be heard. Thank you for that gift gorgeous girl. really Thank you xx
Sonia Life Love and Hiccups recently posted..Oh Man I had to Go and Make Another Video Didnt I!