Was it really just a short time ago that we shopped exclusively at bricks and mortar stores and through catalogues? Did we really have to read the newspaper to get our football scores? Life before the internet is unfathomable now, and certainly something succeeding generations will think old-fashioned.
Here are six crucial things we now do online with wonderful accessibility and convenience: First, we now gather information via the internet.
Daily info about news, sport, and weather is gathered online.
It is no wonder the print media is in sharp decline.
The web is also the choice for gaining in-depth knowledge concerning health, finances, how-to help, and even history.
Secondly, we connect with one another online in a myriad of ways.
It started with e-mail, then instant messaging, and quickly blossomed into the whole social networking scene featuring MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, and dozens more.
We love the immediacy and the ability to pass along pictures or give people a greater sense of who we are by showing them links to our favorite places on the web.
This form of communication is now also a crucial aspect of many business and career functions.
The natural progression is the rise of web-based dating services that have brought literally hundreds of thousands of people together for significant relationships.
There is no longer any stigma related to pursuing romance via the WWW.
Entertainment is a large part of what the web is about nowadays.
Sites like YouTube blur social networking and entertainment, and information gathering, for that matter.
They are a primary source of quick, immediate fun, where we can satisfy our interests in all kinds of things.
Gaming, downloading movies or music, and learning about hobbies, are amongst the most popular leisure pursuits online.
Travelers enjoy researching climate, cultural information, and things to do in places they'd love to visit, or perusing last minute hotels while considering an upcoming trip or holiday.
Fourthly, many of us do our banking via the web now.
Advanced security measures keep our transactions private and our money safe.
We use online cheques, and transfer money with a few clicks.
The convenience is simply stunning! We use our credit card online to complete transactions at our favorite sites or when booking a last minute hotel for an upcoming trip.
A fifth way the WWW has changed our lives is in the realm of education.
Online classes of all kinds are offered and we are taking them in growing numbers, often leading to a degree from an established institution.
Finally, we shop and make purchases online, something unheard of just a few short years ago.
We buy books, clothing, exotic teas, collectibles, and all sorts of gear online.
We compare prices for car insurance or find a last minute hotel, and appreciate viewing multiple options with speed and convenience.
Life continues to evolve - make the most of it online!