"It's the Real You"

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/22/fashion/22Avatar.html?pagewanted=1&8dpc&_r=1

This article opened me up to a new virtual world. I had never really heard about avatar-based social networking sights so this concept is very interesting. Although I am not interested in becoming part of that world, I can see the appeal. With times so tough, people are making major adjustments in their lives. Many people are stuck in jobs they hate but wont quit for fear of not finding a new one. Many more nights are spent at home instead of going out due to the expense. These avatar worlds let people escape reality and live how they wish they could live. They can also create a new and different person, the person they wish they could be. It is a fantasy and a way that someone could make their dreams come true. I think that a problem could arise when to much time is spent in this virtual world. This other life may make you happy, but you also need to be happy in your real life.