Have you noticed that Facebook can be a great thing – but at other times can be (as the mother in “The Waterboy” said)…”of the devil”? I really enjoy Facebook. It has brought me back in contact with old friends, I have met new friends, and I am able to stay in touch with my faraway relatives. For me, it has been more of a blessing than a curse – accept for maybe the addiction factor. However, it can also become a conduit for uninhibited thoughts leading to reckless behavior. It has even been on the news how destructive it can be to lives and marriages.
I really don’t think people realize that some things should not be said, or written, in a public forum. I have a recently divorced friend whose teenage child is on their friend list. There is a great deal said about sexual matters, partying, and such. I wonder what that child thinks reading these comments. Is parental respect dwindling with each remark? Can they look back and be proud of them? Is it setting an example for their view of life?
Everything I say and do is with the thought of how it might be perceived by others – but mostly by my close friends and family. It is hard on me at times – and I do miss the mark here and there. However, I try to do the best I can to make sure I live up to what I believe is right. That being said, I am not passing judgment on my friend or anyone else – I have made my fair share of mistakes. However, thankfully most have been limited to a non-public arena - or at least I think so. Ummm...hmmm. Might have to think about that one. Anyway....
Again, I think Facebook can be a wonderful thing – but it must be taken seriously when posting to remember others than the intended are reading it. What I would like to say to my friend is that they need to value their life and their reputation. But, I am afraid it would not be taken in the spirit in which I intend. Perhaps at a later point…I just hope that any damage is still repairable at that time.
Our words speak to who we are … whether written or spoken. What are we saying?
Well put! It is so hard to help out a friend in a situation like that, and I know you only have their best interests at heart. That's just who you are - to your very core. I think this is something everyone should consider in whatever they do.. be it facebook, myspace, or out in public. There is a reason these things are done behind "closed doors." ;~)
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