Just as important. No difference except that I probably talk to my online friends more often than in "real life" friends. Or actually, maybe the online/offline difference has disappeared? Hmm.

~Denise BlogHer Community Manager
Flamingo House Happenings

I started out thinking "online" was lesser in some way, then decided it was just as important, but I've been blogging for almost two years now, and some people have disappeared along the way - completely dropped out, erased their blog, won't respond to emails - which makes me think that for some, online connections are easier to sever.

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For some people online friendships can be as strong or stronger than real life ones. For others the opposite is true. It's pretty much true of any relationship. And yes, I'd believe that online relationships can be easier to sever. It's not like you are going to run into most of your online friends at the grocery store or a friend's party.

By the same token though, the online world can strengthen real life friendships. I've moved around a lot. If it wasn't for social networks, email and IM I'd have lost a lot for friendships than I have during the move.

Sassymonkey and Sassymonkey Reads.

I agree - this is one of the best aspects of social networking. I often complain that it's so shallow and hate hate HATE the liberal use of the term "friend" - esp. on Facebook - BUT it's a great tool for keeping in touch.

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