Cool things leave you cold feet

I'm actually talking about those so-called cool widgets many bloggers put in their blogs. Here's the actual case: After an ample amount of time spent on a nice blog, I just realized that I left a trace on it. That box on the right made a stark evidence of my visit, not only to the aforementioned blog, but also other blogs which I happened to read following the links:

- Washington, D.C. left via xxx
- Washington, D.C. left via yyy
- Washington, D.C. left via zzz

Shoot!

That was my second exposure to the horror fact that complete anonymousness (yes, it's the correct word, I've checked it!) doesn't exist anymore. The first time I encountered it, I was a bit shocked, but then I tried to ignore it. I think I'm supposed to get used to it by the second time -- apparently not, because I even feel more annoyed than ever.

Being totally helpless when it comes to the blogging technology - or perhaps IT in general - I never really cared what I should or should not install for my blog. I learned the very basic HTML only to get a layout that isn't too unpleasant for these eyes. I used to put a sitemeter but later on decided to take it out as I don't see the necessity. I do check my Google analytics very randomly (and very rarely, I must say), yet it's never a must. [Note: it can be fun, though, to find some dudes in an unknown place in Africa dropped by this blog].

Maybe that is why blogging and the blogosphere lately have been quite uncomfortable to me. It used to be really fun when you just write whatever you like there, hop in other people's blogs, make comments if you want to, or just write a brief greeting in the shoutbox to make people aware you're out there and at the same time convey your message that you ARE inviting them to your blog. And if you want to remain anonymous - or, for some cases, pseudonymous - be it. No drama, no fight over stupid things and micro-mini issues, everybody's happy. If some jerks leave you unfriendly comments (hence unacceptable!), you just laugh at it and continue what you're doing.

It's getting too serious. Now everyone seems eager to get the longest list of blogrolls (well, maybe this one isn't so new) and comments. Now there are abundant discussions on blogging ethics and self-censorship. Now there are tips to keep your blogging spirit high and encourage others to blog. Now YOU want to know who's visiting your blog. Geeze! It.Is.Too.Much. I start to feel like a fugitive. Or a turkey in Thanksgiving week. RUN FOR YOUR LIFE!