Three things I have learned about Bear
Coming to the Bear blogging platform is my first encounter with the indie, or small, web as a creator, and I have learned so much these past couple of months.
First of all, I have learned that Bear is much more than a blogging platform, it's a town square and also a community (or many). It's been an honest, heartfelt, and warm encounter with the bloggers of Bear. I have seen and read some of your stuff, been inspired, reached out, and you responded.
Secondly, I have learned that Bear is personal. It's people writing as people, with great diversity in topics because life has many colors. I have been so surprised to see how personal a blog can be, not only in terms of words but also style. I thought that I just wanted my own blog to be simple, a vehicle for my writing, but that's not enough for me anymore. My blog, which is currently a mosaic of beautiful pieces I picked up from other blogs (thanks to Robert for his "Bearful" theme), should be customized to better reflect me.
Thirdly, I have learned that imperfect is perfect. What you find on Bear is content made by humans for humans. It may not be as polished and free from errors, or follow conventional grammar rules, as you're used to, but that's all right (in the age of AI, even a relief). I'm trying to let go of my many iterations of writing and proofreading. It feels liberating and, after getting used to it, even comfortable.
Thanks to Herman for building and caring for Bear, and thanks to all the bloggers of Bear for being there.