I heard someone say on the radio today that social networking sites are “mirrors masquerading as windows”. In theory we are there to connect with others, but in fact we focus more on our profile and pictures and sharing ourselves. So it begs the question, is it self serving? Why are we there? Is it because we are bored or lonely or really want to know what other people are up to?
I admit, I’ve been addicted to using Facebook and finding out what the celebrities are up to on Twitter, but I can say honestly for me that I know very well that I use it as an escape-make it look like I’m connecting deeply with others without actually having to. And how cool is it to say I just got a text (via Twitter) from Max Lucado or Candace Cameron Bure or Lindsay Lohan or Beth Moore?!!? I’m good at hiding though. And frankly, it’s hard to put my real self out there on facebook. As a people pleaser that means I have more people (some of whom I barely know) giving me their opinions on everything I write. Not all of me is likable-I know that. But being myself and allowing hundreds of people permission to comment on my thoughts isn’t always healthy.
Therefore, I like blogging. It’s upfront about being self serving and all about me. I’ve been pondering for days what blogging really is. Is it a mass letter or more like a diary that happens to get read? All I know, is that when I blog about something important, I usually process through my writing whether or not people ever read it. It allows me to get my own perspective, thus eliminating my need to have others’ opinions.
I have no plans of giving up my social networking sites, but I will try to become more aware of when I trade my windows for mirrors.
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