Some newbies are true to the sense that they have never ventured on the Internet before getting their first computer. Other newbies have toyed with going online at work or at a friends house maybe once or twice - the funny ones in that category act like they know it all from that brief exposure. Some may have had a computer for years, but due to the fact they have a life seldom go online except to check e-mail and visit a site or two, after that, they would be lost.
There is no shame in being a newbie. We all have to start somewhere. There is a big pitfall in being new, some of those who have been around for awhile can spot you a mile away.
This virtual world is not really much different than the real world, yet people can be even more bold and daring with an air of anonymity. All those who are bullies, thieves con artists and pranksters in the real world are more likely to do the same thing online. Even those who have never had the nerve to do such things in real life, but have a leaning to those tendancies can let their little devils run loose as they would not dare in the real world.
Don't be scared off by those people! They are a reality of life PERIOD! You have just as much right to be here as they do. Just because there are jerks out there, does not mean you are never safe. You must simply use your wits as you would entering a strange neighborhood.
As there are a bunch of jerks out there online, there are also many good people. Most just want to mind their own business and stick to their tasks at hand. Many want to make real friends online that they never would have in the real world. Some, the "saints", will even go as far as reaching out to those in trouble and helping them with the online follies. The media seldom gives any attention to the good guys online, the crooks make better news coverage.
As a newbie, the best advice I can give you is to just be yourself! You can put on as many masks as you want, but people will see through it eventually. You don't have to bare your soul to everyone, just share as much as you feel comfortable.
You may have thought it a good idea to get on the Internet so you can stay in touch with family and friends who live far away, or to start a business, or simply curiosity to see what everyone is talking about. Frustration keeps many newbies from exploring the full power of what is available. Pace yourself. This virtual library is a really good thing. Don't take it for granted. Just use common sense.
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