TUESDAY THOUGHTS: FRIENDS

Social networking is a trip--a very fun, helpful, informative trip, but a trip nonetheless. 

Sometimes I think about abandoning it altogether.

There are days when I think, "You're not strong enough for this", or 

"You should SAY something!", or 

"Do NOT reply! DO NOT REPLY! Back AWAY from the computer!" 

Obviously, I haven't given up on the newest way to occupy/waste time. It has its merits. It also has its down side. The word "friend" has come to be defined as "one who is in your life as a result of the striking a computer key".

I read the comment that showed up on my twitter time line. It was so touching and complimentary. It was also sad, because I knew it was not something the recipient would want seen in public. 

The writer was sincere. 

He really thinks they're friends now. 

If he only knew how they wish he would keep the sentiments he shares to himself...and what is said when he's not around. 

He keeps plugging away though, and daily interacting with people who share his profession, but not his philosophy. 

Every day he exchanges pleasantries with people who desire his notoriety, chase after his fame and finances, and covet his contacts, but would rather that it not be assumed, or known that he is a CLOSE friend.

What would people think? 

Much of what goes on with social networking doesn't really give much thought to discretion, sensitivities, or truth.

So many people. 

So many ambitions. 

So much deceit. 

So much rejection. 

So much information. 

Today, there's a way to interact with people who were once elusive. 

Today, people can say what they've always wanted to say--whether they get a response or not. 

It's how badly people want certain things, that could really pose a dilemma. 

People are going for it, though. 

Taking chances. 

Taking that shot, and getting shot down--in public, in 140 words or less.

Some public endorsements can be problematic, and imply relationships that don't exist. Even if justified, are there some stamps of approval you'd rather do without, simply because of the speculation they may cause?

If it meant lowering standards, abandoning faith, embracing bad habits, or losing dignity, it wasn't a missed opportunity.

#socialmedia

#friends

#networking