I was reading the paper yesterday and found an article about blogging and free speech. It made some very good points. Journalists, it said, are instilled with a sense of how their writing will affect the world. They know not to publish something without sources (it might be wrong), without researching the facts behind their story. They have a responsibility not to do things like advocate violence or other illegal acts.

When one thinks of television shows, books and movies, and those who become involved in the fandoms for such, good deeds and volunteerism aren't necessarily the first things that come to mind. In fact, in many instances, good deeds and volunteerism often don't even make the list.

Take the Twilight fandom for instance.

Imagine: You're a full-time college student, a single mom, and a productive member of society. All of your bills are paid on time, you've never violated the law, and your children are well cared for, well behaved, and well educated.

They're still little, only three, six and seven years old. The entire world is an amazing and awe-inspiring place to them. They're fascinated by the smallest things, have an exhaustive list of questions, and soak up what they see and hear like a sponge. But they won’t stay little forever.

Today is a great day to be alive.

I'm sure this same sentiment has been echoed at several points throughout time... At least for as long as human beings have been able to communicate with each other. I imagine that this was the sentiment felt throughout France not long after Joan of Arc helped them to reclaim Orleans. This same sentiment was probably echoed again soon after the printing press started to bring news and books to the public. As the Industrial Revolution took hold, the Wright Brothers took flight, Neil Armstrong took a few small steps - each of these made it a great time to be alive.