Initially, it started as the latter three examples you provided.
I was completely inept at the art of basic conversation - the opportunity afforded to me by anonymity and type allowed me to meet people. The common interest in storytelling attracted me to roleplay.
Now? It's not the same as when I started. Originally, RuneScape and Roleplay were a support - then a crutch. But then I realised that; weened off it, focused on my schooling. Improved my grades, finished school and found that throughout the entire ordeal (where friends I've made here were with me the whole way, whether I or they even realise it), I had come a long way thanks to the medium we all embrace.
Now? It's different. I stay here because of the people I've met, the people whose company I enjoy. I don't interact all that often with most of you, but the fact you're all a click away is really nice. I enjoy storytelling the same as ever, and the bonds forged between us as we... well, sail off into the sunset, on a new adventure every day.
There's light at the end of the tunnel, and it's truly exulting when found.
And right now, I don't want to leave it for the shade. So I stay.
16-Mar-2015 16:02:35