I have a real love/hate relationship with social media. Up until perhaps a year ago, I refused to "participate". Even now, I don't put a whole lot of personal things on. It might not be completely logical, but things about my children or grand children just feel not safe to me. I actually have a page that I THOUGHT would mostly be for my novels and use my pen name. I have a total of less than 10 friends. Some folks just cluck their tongues when I say that and give me one of those poor old thing looks.
So I'm ON, in my own little world. Even though I hate to share a lot, I have to admit that I greatly enjoy seeing other's posts and the things that are going on in thier lives. Since you get to enter music and other things that you personally enjoy, then you get all those updates and interesting posts that are right up your alley.
Having said the part that I do enjoy and since the ho-ho days are about over, I can bitch...can't I? Never mind, I don't need your permission. I 'bout used up all my patience and cheer during the season. What I truly do not like is that you feel like an idiot if you get a "friend" request, accept out of guilt and later find out they didn't really request your special friendship at all. I also hate really needy folks---I don't mean that you have a problem or heartache like everyone does sometimes and need an ear or a little comfort. I get that. I'm talking those constantly, if they don't have a problem, they post someone else's. They need a hug, need a prayer...most of the time, you don't even know the person in need, they are a friend of a friend's friend. AND, they try to make you feel crappy if you don't like, pray, send a hug, etc. Sorry to be an old grouch, but come on, what ever happened to things being private and getting comfort from your real friends and family. Not the whole world.
You know, I am so sad...I'm actually heart broken for all the pain and suffering and outrageous injustices that are in our world. It sometimes keeps me awake at night with a hurt in my soul for the ugliness. But, PA-LEESE, do not try to tell me how to feel. Do not bury me in sad pictures of animals (over and over and OVER) and sick hurting children. Don't try to cram things down my throat. One evening of television often makes me feel like I've been through a freakin' house of horrors. I make my own choices about what causes seem important and it's my private business who I give to. You can't force people to care or love or send you a hug. And, honestly; anyone who thinks that their life will be better, their problems less because someone on social media gives you a like or sends you a hug or sympathy will most likely never be free of problems or have a better life.
This must sound like the sourest grapes ever stomped. I truly DO enjoy seeing your grandchildren, your family, the new baby---I am sincerely sad for your loss or illness or sick loved one. Social media, like most new technology, can be amazing. If you feel good about sharing there, or receive some comfort, I sure don't have the teeniest right to begrudge you that. But, in my opinion, when you start returning and saying "I posted this and it didn't get any likes or comments. What is wrong with you people?"---like in the overall scheme of things, it makes a rat's ass what someone on Facebook or any other web site thinks---you don't need social media, you need professional counseling.
WHEW-W! Got that out of my system. Gotta go check Facebook...Hope you're planning a Happy New Year.
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