You are just the smartest person I ever met.
Now, imagine you can see me roll my eyes while I say that.
Now, imagine you can see my twirl my hair and bat my eyelashes while I say that.
Well, now you don't have ton wonder what my face is doing while I compliment you; welcome to Skype.
What difference does it make to my meaning when you can see my face? It makes ALL the difference. Expression is our physical cue to the other person, to explain to them how we intend for them to interpret our message. Our words include a message, but our expressions and tone are the keys to unlocking that message.
Skype is a simple program a computer user can install in their laptop, internet-capable phone, or desktop computer. All the user needs is a webcam, microphone, and speakers, and s/he can start using Skype. Of course, it also helps if the user has friends who are similarly connected to Skype, but that's a gamble we'll have to take.
Skype uses video and audio to conduct a face-to-face call between two users. These individuals can be separated by as many miles or oceans as they like; Skype (thanks to our god friend, the internet) can cross them all.
I have personally used Skype regularly since 2004 and I love it. I love that awkward feeling I get when I see an old friend for the first time in months or years and I feel the urge to hug them, but can't. I love that there's no way I can hide my surprise when she shares that she's finally decided to quit shaving her legs and move to a commune. I love seeing her tear up when we laugh hysterically about the good old days. Skype brings communication to life, including our awkward moments and our beautiful experiences.
Skype is a tool, just like any other, which helps communication, but it also presents unique challenges. Users have to find ways to work around the awkward moments when they aren't able to physically move or touch one another. We also have to be comfortable with seeing our own image reflected back to us on the screen.
For all the challenges it presents, Skype allows a deeper feeling of connection between communicators. Anything that increases feelings of love and connection in this world is worth using. I fully encourage Skype usage.
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