Jamie, I sense a theme: connecting people! Maybe you should write a post about it. :)  And these are words to live by: "write from the heart and the right people will think your blog is useful." Btw, I'm glad that my collection of "right people" includes you and others who don't necessarily have everything in common with me. I really like that. 

Trina, thanks! I'm glad that whatever I'm doing encourages involvement, because when you all share your two cents, your own stories and your individual perspectives, it makes what I ultimately want my blog to be about all come together.

Jeb, HA! Genius. And wise and true. You've outlined something I was getting at in my response to Shell (above). That writing for ourselves (step 1) isn't necessarily selfish, because it leads to step 2, and finally to step 3—the connecting part, which is what it's all really about. Sharing our stories helps others frame and share theirs.

Kira, I love that you brought up the sense of "comfort" that's critical in true community: "a community of individuals who feel comfortable to share in each other’s lives." Feeling safe and comfortable with who we are, even while we're being challenged by different beliefs and opinions, is the best foundation for good dialogue. I'm really glad so many people can feel that way here. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!