OT Community Spotlight

This was written for Trend Magazine, like many of my other articles. However, this one was written about a specific forum on IMVU.com.

In the bushes next to the trail leading to the infamous lair, which is recognized by many names unfit and/or irrelevant to mention at this time but is officially called ‘Off Topic’ (which will be abbreviated to ‘OT’ from this point on), a rustle can be heard.

“Stop it right there!” someone yells; a yell which seemingly originates from the same source as the rustle. Out of the bushes a dreadheaded, shirtless man, decorated with odd tattoos and piercings, appears. “Is it possible that you are headed towards the OT? And you have never been there before?” he asks. You nod silently, then, “As I suspected... Well, then I suggest you let me guide you through it. I promise you, you will thank me afterwards.” He motions, “Now, follow me – and don’t forget to listen closely to what I have to say if you wish your experience to be pleasant.” He starts walking towards the entrance and continues, “By the way…I’m Kaffe”.

An arm's length from the entrance, he stops. “Now, there are a few things you should know before we enter. Newcomers are most often not very well received by OT’s regular inhabitants and it is important to keep your tongue sharp until they’ve gotten used to your voice and presence. Small things can trigger them to bicker with you. Don't panic, this is only a test! You have to abide by the rules, not do as they do, in order to gain their respect. So I suggest that you read through these…”, he takes out two pamphlets from his back pocket; one reads ‘Forum Rules’ and the other ‘Terms of service’. “I bet you’ve already been given the second one, so sorry if I assume you’ve already thrown it away. You did? Don’t worry, ‘everyone’ does that”, he says as he smiles and winks. “Now, let’s move forward”.

Kaffe opens the door and as soon as the air from the inside and the outside connects, a massive and almost chaotic flow of voices is heard. “Don’t be scared, take a step forward”, Kaffe encourages. “This is were the fun begins!”

A few hesitant steps, and then, "Ok, don't take too many steps in. Start observing to begin with and skim through the pamphlets as I keep showing you around". Kaffe turns around "Hey, I said don't fret, my presentation is just so you enter with your mind calibrated correctly to be able to enjoy this place. There are a lot of wonderful people in here and there are many reasons why you should come here. Here you can discuss things you can't discuss anywhere else, everything from thoughts about something that has happened to you during the day to serious political discussions to funny videos you've seen. If you are seeking honesty, then know that in the OT people are not afraid to state their opinions. Here you'll meet people that you'd never meet anywhere else. It's a great place to kill time, chill out and have fun. Don't be surprised if you find yourself laughing your lungs out to some of the things that are said. Sarcasm and seriousness tweaked and twirled together in a way seldom experienced anywhere else! When you feel ready, take a step forward and make contact, experience, share and enjoy this place! Just remember that you are in control of what discussions you choose to enter and I can almost promise you that you will enjoy the wide variety of people that are here".

Kaffe takes up a creased and seemingly well-used hat with the word 'Moderator' printed on it, and places it on his head. "After all, it's about enjoying yourself in the end. Now, if you excuse me, I have to tend to some other duties. If you ever have any questions, just holler my name and I'll be there. Take care!"

He takes a deep breath, waves and then runs off into the crowd…

- Kaffe Myers 22 September 2007