Second Life

I have been introduced to Second Life. I would like to say thank you very much. I can feel an addiction coming on.

A few day ago, my Uncle Bob suggested that I give Second Life a try. We could hang out and have a few drinks. It took me a few days to give it a whirl because I was in the middle of so many things. By the way, whenever I don’t write a blog post, it means I am busy. I usually have no trouble coming up with stimulating content. Anyway, I did manage to get online the other night to sign up for a free account. Basically, you go to the website and fill in the usual information. After that, you are brought to a page that asks for you to make up a name. They supply a list of last names, but you have to come up with the first. At first, I tried to use “Jay,” but that was taken already…with every last name they offered. Then, I tried a few more and they were all taken too. I decided to go with my initials. Every last name wasn’t taken and I was offered a list of available last names to go with the first. I decided to go with that last name, “Jones.” So, my Second Life name is Jones, just in case you want to stop by and visit.

After that, they sent out a verification email. Once I received the email and clicked the verification link, I was brought to a web page that had a download link. I had to download the Second Life program for my PC. Then, I had to install it and log in.

I really have to say that I am quite impressed. I didn’t know what all the buzz was about, but after logging in, I soon learned exactly why people were raving. It’s sort of like a video game that connects to the internet. From what I gather, once you are a member, you can buy land and assets…anything you want. You are able to chat with other people that are currently logged into Second Life and you can even voice chat. You are able to do so many things…it’s virtually a “Second Life.” I guess that is why they call it a virtual world.

One thing that you have to remember is that it isn’t a game. People use real money to buy things (converted into Linden Dollars). You can build assets and join groups. There are several high profile companies that have properties in Second Life.

I enjoyed my first visit into the virtual realm very much and plan to return soon. There is a lot to learn.