I could not agree more. My business partner and I met through Twitter and many of my most meaningful relationships started as an introduction through common connectedness, all inside social media. I take many recommendations from friends and associates I know through social media and often times, turn first to these places for input than in other life streams.

"Cultural shifting" (not replacing) is the more appropriate interpretation of what this has done for many. At the speed of Internet (and trust), I think this will only continue, and even accelerate, as reputation management emerges over time.

Thank you for this great post. You have highlighted solid reminders for all of us!