I find that as I am sitting on the beach in Osoyoos, contemplating life and having my face in a book, I realise that I have become somewhat addicted to Facebook. I used to poo-poo it, but then started an account to keep tabs on certain people who shall remain un-named. I gradually began to realise that the term "social networking" is exactly that, and does have some use. I see what my 'friends' are into, what is going on in their lives, and feel connected so that even if I do not see them for a long period of time, I am still up to date with their families and their life, or at least that part of it which they are willing to share.
I have discovered that long strings of conversation can get going over the most innocuous subjects. But, do not dare present anything controversial, or contradict someone in anything but a humorous manner, with a smiley face icon accompanying the comment.
Speaking in generalities, I would say that there is little of a serious nature happening on Facebook, unless it is support of someone in dire straights due to illness, accident, or loss of a pet or loved one. Recipes are big. Personal photos are big. Advice is big. And the mundane is big. I must say that the heavy users of Facebook are transparent in what their lives are all about. You can tell a lot about a 'friend' by what he or she continually posts. It is also clear to see who the more popular people are as they are the ones with the most comments and 'likes' behind their posts. Face it, some people are just more fun and more interesting to follow than others.
I will often email a Facebook friend if I want to have a serious discussion. Such a public forum, as Facebook is, does not seem to be the place for politics, religion, world events, or any kind of controversy. Being a very opinionated person, I have to exercise great restraint when I see some of the stuff that is posted. It literally cries out to be challenged.
But hey, I do not want to be 'unfriended' so I most often keep my mouth shut and my fingers off the keyboard. How ever will I be able to peek into their lives if I am no longer their 'friend'?
1 comment:
Facebook...simultaneously liked and disliked. Compelled to flow with the river of communication because now if you do not belong to social media you are part of the fringe society. Facebook is not enough. The very people who see you on Facebook invite you to Linkedin, Google+ and any other place they can form circles of friends. Personally I don't know how they can do this and carry on a normal life. Maybe they don't.
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