Let’s Blog
Blog: noun; a website containing a writer’s or group of writers’ own experiences, observations, opinions, etc., and often having images and links to other websites. I joined Tumblr in 2009 before I even knew what Tumblr really was. Like any other high school student, I figured Tumblr was similar to other social media such as Facebook, Myspace, and High5. Fast forward about five years and I finally understood what Tumblr really was. I learned what I can do that all the followers I had weren’t just something to brag about they were, however, people that were reading everything I post and actually liking it. Yes, they were reading things I post and I honestly I didn’t believe it either.
Reblogging, according to Wikipedia, “is the mechanism in blogging which allows users to repost the content of another user’s post with an indication that the source is another user.” Reblogging is basically how I started my blog. I followed all of my friends, who followed other people, and just reposted things that they already posted that I found hilarious or interesting. I honestly thought that’s what you were supposed to do with Tumblr. Then I stumbled on a blog called “Afro-Arts” which showed ad inspired me to really start a blog. “Afro-Arts” is a blog on Tumblr that later turned into a website. The website, according to the owners, “is a modern directory providing a platform for black-owned business to advertise, network, and leverage new business.” The owners of “Afro-Arts” took their simple Tumblr page and turned it into something way more than a business page it’s more like a voice of the people.
Tumblr, as said by Mike Wallagher in his article on startbloggingonline.com, “A hip microblogging hosted platform with a social network aspect.” Meaning that it’s more for short blogs and not full-length post. Which is actually spot on, as an avid Tumblr user I don’t read the extremely long post so if you’re thinking about making lengthy post Tumblr really isn’t for you. If you like to keep your topics short and sweet and you not only write but you also post music, photos and videos the Tumblr is for you. My Tumblr account, Blackbusinessmatters.tumblr.com, was started based off “Afro-Arts” accept instead of just listing black businesses I write reviews on every business, restaurant, and even new music. As I said above I didn’t immediately decide to do that so if you want to start a blog join a blogging website and research blogs so that you can pick a topic to write about. Also, Tumblr isn’t the only place you can go to start your blog. Wallagher listed several websites in his article such as WordPress and Blogger that can be used to create blogs. In my opinion Tumblr is the most up to date platform however, all three are good and are the best word known to mankind, FREE. That’s right people all of these websites are free to use and very simple as well. WordPress, on the other hand, offers paid packages for a more professional blogging experience.
Now let’s recap on what we have learned. Any and everyone can start a blog no matter what the topic is and you can do so by joining Tumblr, WordPress, or Blogger. Each website is free to use and they do support reblogging and all you have to do is follow other blogs with similar interest. Also, even if you’re not sure what to blog about at first just sign up for an account and do your research on blogs. Lastly, if you think no one’s going to read what you post just remember me and how I single-handedly held your attention for the duration of this post. Happy Blogging!
