I like to think of myself as a the kind of guy that faces life head on, that doesn’t avoid hard decisions, a realist. Turns out I’ve been lying to myself. Hard to believe isn’t it?
Let me give you an example. I recently started playing World of Warcraft again. I’m enjoying it, a lot. Part of it is the challenge of overcoming virtual, in-game obstacles. Then again there is the social aspect, I know quite a few people that play. But honestly, I find that I identify with my little on-screen avatar way too much lately. He’s all the things I wish I was in reality. A strong, warrior. Outgoing and funny. Brave. Not afraid to flirt and have a good time. Swings a mean mace too!
The funny thing is, I play a Dwarf online. He’s not pretty. He’s a little chubby, balding with a ponytail. Definitely not one of the beautiful people even online. He’s good hearted though. Not so different from me really. And yet he leads a far more adventuresome life than I do. Gets more dates for one thing, damn him.
I like playing a warrior because I’m often called upon to defend others in my group. I like that, defending the weak is a valiant calling. I get a thrill rushing into danger to die or save the day. Of course, online if things go badly you always get another chance. I still like to think I’d do the same thing in real life.
So is it good or bad that I escape real life and submerge myself in an alternate reality? I don’t have a good answer. I guess if I use this as an excuse to avoid dealing with problems in the real world it’s a bad thing. I’d like to say I haven’t done that, but maybe I have? I’ll have to think about that one… but I’m not ready to give up my alternate existence as a Dwarven warrior, I’ll tell you that much!
September 17th, 2007 at 9:44 pm
Welcome to your new home! I will enjoy reading your words here. Do you want to be bookmarked on sidebars, or is this a private blog?
M~
September 17th, 2007 at 9:48 pm
Hi M, feel free to blogroll this site… I just didn’t want to create a direct link between the two blogs.
September 17th, 2007 at 10:01 pm
We all live in alternate realities. Reality is a nice place to visit, but I wouldn’t want to live there.
September 17th, 2007 at 10:18 pm
Wow, I like what you’ve done with the place! The paint is very new, I’d better not lean on anything…
September 17th, 2007 at 10:35 pm
Sometimes its good to be able to escape from reality. In online realms, we are able to do things we normally can’t do in real life, and at times we even find more people to talk to. I’ve experienced being engrossed in online worlds and in my opinion its alright, as long as you don’t forget everything thats outside. When you spend far too much time online and not be able to leave it even just to get some sun or breathe some fresh air outside, that’s the time you have to stop for a bit and evaluate your situation.
September 18th, 2007 at 1:47 am
Wow, hardly any paint smell. What great interior design!
As far as alternate realities…I have a challenge for you. Analyze your Dwarven warrior for the actions or qualities that he has, that you find yourself wanting to have in your own realm of reality.
Take one thing and apply it to your life this week. See what tranpires by the week’s end.
I have a feeling that there may be some qualities that he has that are merely lying dormant inside yourself.
I speak from experience.
~Lea from the Outer Realm
September 18th, 2007 at 8:39 am
I love the new look!
My son plays WoW all the time. Sometimes I like to sit and watch… as I love the relms and character designs.
Looking forward to reading more here!
September 18th, 2007 at 10:31 am
I know what you mean by needing a new more private space. Nice setup
September 18th, 2007 at 1:04 pm
Hey there! Nice place you got here!
It’s been a crazy day for me but I HAD to stop by and see your new digs! I like muchly!
September 19th, 2007 at 1:27 pm
Thanks for the comments everyone!