I just created my application for the beta app, and for the most part, enjoyed the process. It motivated me to use the creative applications on my computer, like photoshop and graphic converter, to create something fun. Sometimes I feel that most of my computer time is frivolous–playing games–but today I felt more connected to the online community.

In the act of creating something that I was proud of, I became more loyal to the online experience. That is both disturbing (because I feel somewhat manipulated) and exciting (because I made something tangible).

Whether I become a part of the beta testing process or not, I have certainly gained (or is it lost?) something today.