Many people depend upon social media as sort of a makeshift therapist. They have a perpetual appointment and a platform (or two) upon which to air their grievances, get things off their chests, and seek help with the issues that seem too large to tackle on their own. I’d say that normally I’m not one of those people. I tend to keep most things private, both because that’s a personality trait of mine and because most of my family members are that way as well. So, even if I break tradition and entertain the idea of sharing, my loyalties reel me back in and I choose to keep things close to my chest.
However, this summer we’ve faced some challenges and shared them with a few friends and family members. And in return, our friends have offered support via emails, texts, or phone calls. I can’t begin to tell you how much those gestures of concern made a difference to us. Just a simple “We’re thinking about you”, did wonders during some pretty heavy times. We are so blessed and fortunate to have had that network of support backing us up.
Most of my few Facebook friends grew out of friendships that were already in place or are artists that I've met at conferences and workshops. I am amazed at the supportive network that these (mostly mosaic) artists give each other. But I know that’s not the case with everyone. Some people don’t have a network of support. They may live alone, be socially introverted, or circumstances may make it difficult for them to connect in “real” life. They truly need social platforms like Facebook to let them know “everything is going to be okay.” Please recognize those pleas for help or re-assurance; whether they’re meek, veiled, or obvious with their all-out screams. It takes less than thirty seconds to hit a “like” button or type a few words of encouragement. What may not seem like a big deal to you, can make all the difference to someone desperate for a virtual (or real) hug. Even if you don’t know them that well, or have never met them in person, you’ve “friended” them, so why not give it a shot? You have nothing to lose, and they may have a lot to gain from a few well-chosen words.
Facebook is great for sharing. Funny photos, wry sarcasms, fiery opinions (ughh), are all woven into the social media fabric that keeps us entranced. There’s nothing wrong with that. I’m just sending out a little request (and a reminder to myself) that the next time you see a post that hints or shouts for a little help, counter those “I probably shouldn’ts” that may run through your head with a “what could it hurt?” Use the power of the platform and your heartfelt words to make a real connection.
However, this summer we’ve faced some challenges and shared them with a few friends and family members. And in return, our friends have offered support via emails, texts, or phone calls. I can’t begin to tell you how much those gestures of concern made a difference to us. Just a simple “We’re thinking about you”, did wonders during some pretty heavy times. We are so blessed and fortunate to have had that network of support backing us up.
Most of my few Facebook friends grew out of friendships that were already in place or are artists that I've met at conferences and workshops. I am amazed at the supportive network that these (mostly mosaic) artists give each other. But I know that’s not the case with everyone. Some people don’t have a network of support. They may live alone, be socially introverted, or circumstances may make it difficult for them to connect in “real” life. They truly need social platforms like Facebook to let them know “everything is going to be okay.” Please recognize those pleas for help or re-assurance; whether they’re meek, veiled, or obvious with their all-out screams. It takes less than thirty seconds to hit a “like” button or type a few words of encouragement. What may not seem like a big deal to you, can make all the difference to someone desperate for a virtual (or real) hug. Even if you don’t know them that well, or have never met them in person, you’ve “friended” them, so why not give it a shot? You have nothing to lose, and they may have a lot to gain from a few well-chosen words.
Facebook is great for sharing. Funny photos, wry sarcasms, fiery opinions (ughh), are all woven into the social media fabric that keeps us entranced. There’s nothing wrong with that. I’m just sending out a little request (and a reminder to myself) that the next time you see a post that hints or shouts for a little help, counter those “I probably shouldn’ts” that may run through your head with a “what could it hurt?” Use the power of the platform and your heartfelt words to make a real connection.
Have a Fabulous Friday and try to pay it forward. Thanks for stopping by,
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