There's a lot I like about the IndieWeb community, but one of the best elements is a constant determination to strive to be better. Their recent adoption of an official "Life Happens" policy is a great example. It's a commitment to recognise that, well, life happens and that being part of an online community, or volunteering time/effort, is never a requirement. That slipping out for a bit is not just okay, but encouraged, whatever the reason. And providing a framework for supporting individuals in the community to whom life is happening.
The idea came from Tantek, and he sums it up nicely on his recent blog post:
That yes, if and when “life happens” to you that:
- we want you to take care of what you need to take care of
- you are encouraged to prioritize those things most important to you, and that the community will not judge or shame you in any way
- you should not feel guilty about being absent, or abruptly having to stop participating
- it is ok to ask for help in the community with any of your community projects or areas of participation, no matter what size or importance
- the community will be here for you when you’re able to and want to return
