Years ago, I purchased a computer that came with a bundle of
games. One of them involved creating an imaginary city. You could build roads,
buildings, and populate it in any way you wished.
I've noticed the virtual reality scene is popular on the
Internet. Two friends and I enjoyed a lunch via my blog. Others send imaginary
gifts to their friends. It's become a way of connecting with people we may
never meet in person.
Yet, are these virtual activities becoming a replacement for
real relationships? Is the line between fantasy and reality so blurred that we
no longer distinguish between them?
Such exercises can be valuable to me as a writer. I get
practice writing stories and developing characters, towns, cities, and even
nations.
As I get to know people on various Social Media sites,
certain ones become so much a part of my daily life that I find it necessary to
connect in tangible ways. We talk on the telephone, email, and meet in person.
Nothing can quite replace face-to-face interaction.
What are your thoughts about virtual reality and real life?
Do you think people are getting hung up on fantasy and neglecting solid
relationships? Why?
