At PAB2008, Chris Brogan dazzled the room as he made the case for money in social media. It wasn’t a hard sell and he spoke to the audience on its terms, saying:
…pay attention to your customers. Why? Because your children need food and as much hugs as I get in the world, I can’t eat a fucking hug.
The room, myself included, welcomed “I can’t eat a fucking hug” as a new commandment of social media. I’ve discovered that, like any good rule, there’s at least one exception.
Nearly two weeks ago, we announced that Andrea has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Life, reality and schedules change very quickly (and erratically) with this news. The outpouring of support is incredible. We’ve received a steady flow of hugs, real and virtual, and I’ve learned that while hugs may not put food on the table, they give you the will to sit down and eat and keep good care of yourself. I don’t believe that any amount of money can do that.
Oh crap, how did I miss that announcement. I’m sorry to hear it. Man, seriously, Yet Another Cancer Diagnosis is bumming me out. Fellow oncological hugs from out west here.
Comment by Derek K. Miller — October 18, 2009 @ 11:47 pm
Hugs help, as does money. I have found that cash is neither cold, nor hard. Instead, it’s warm and soft. It goes with anything you wear. ;)
Seriously, though, emotional support combined with some financial help when needed does help out a lot. I’m still learning that it’s okay to ask for help.
You have a lot of people rooting for you.
Comment by Daniel Johnson, Jr. — October 19, 2009 @ 5:06 pm
I think hugs are very important in that situation. The food can wait.
Comment by Chris Brogan... — October 23, 2009 @ 5:51 pm