Imagine a giant spiderweb in a forest. This spiderweb is like the Nostr communication system. Each strand of the web is a path for messages, and the dewdrops on the web are the messages themselves.
Now, in this spiderweb, there are special dewdrop collection points where dewdrops gather. These collection points are the "Nostr relays."
Here's how it works:
Sending a Dewdrop: When you want to send a message (or a dewdrop), you place it on the spiderweb. It travels along the strands and reaches relays (dewdrop collection points).
Multiplication: Because Nostr is digital, the dewdrops have a magic quality of infinitely replicating themselves and travel in multiple directions simultaneously. So they do just that to reach multiple dewdrop collection points.
Relay's Job: The relay's job is to make sure your dewdrop reaches all parts of the web. It doesn't care about the size or shape of the dewdrop; it just spreads it out to every strand.
No Favorites: The relay treats all dewdrops equally. It doesn't favor big dewdrops over small ones or clear ones over colored ones.
What if a Relay Dries Up?: Sometimes, a dewdrop collection point might dry up or get damaged. But don't worry! There are many collection points on the web, so if one dries up, the others can still spread your dewdrops. And because anyone can create a new collection point, there's always a backup plan.
Free and Paid Relays: Some dewdrop collection points are free to use, while others might ask for a small fee. The ones that ask for a fee might spread dewdrops faster or to special parts of the web.
So, in simple terms, Nostr relays are like special dewdrop collection points on a big spiderweb that help spread your messages (dewdrops) to every corner of the web!
For the readers older that 5 I suggest checking out my quick guide on Nostr relays here: https://habla.news/tony/relays