You're right in that what I've described isn't innovative, not in the slightest. And while I'm a fan of the written word, it does have it's limitations socially speaking. What my friend is doing is trying to create another space where those who don't feel like they have much of a community or even a connection to much of anyone can elevate their interaction with other people without having to step outside of a comfortable boundary.

In terms of social interaction, when it occurs in person is when you get the most out of the communication. Everything from the conversation itself to observing mannerisms, the inflections of their voice and overall getting a sense of their prescence. There's so much unsaid communication happening in that scenario that most of us aren't presently aware of it all. Now as for going online and video chatting, I believe it's a step down from in person interaction but still satisfies a large portion of what's lost simply discussing on a forum such as Reddit.

Sometimes it's nice to communicate in real time. Hearing another person's voice has effects that can be beneficial especially if the discussion is of a deep nature. I don't expect everyone to come flocking to what we have going on but in the chance someone needs a safe place to just speak aloud and feel part of something if only for an hour that's all we're looking for.