I’m torn. I’ve been reading the disturbing news about the Facebook Papers and how the company put profit over social responsibility. I mean…it’s not like I’m surprised or anything. We had to know they weren’t pulling the plug on the divisiveness train the last couple of years. And, just about every business is going to push for more profits. It’s the nature of capitalism. But…I’m an advocate of truth and peace and togetherness and kindness. I’ve always tried to be an island of peace in a sea of madness. I’m not always successful…but I do try.
And now…here we are. The curtain has been pulled back and light has been shone on a really dark side of the social media equation. I have poured the last eight and a half years of my life into my writing here. This is exactly the reason I spent three years copying every post I’ve made on Facebook and putting it on my webpage. I knew there would come a day when it may be unconscionable to remain here.
It’s not a black and white issue…not by a long shot. Not for me, anyway. I am a social creature. Facebook is my connection to a great number of people…family and friends….that I wouldn’t necessarily be able to stay in touch with otherwise. I love this connection, even though it stirs conflict in my heart. It’s been keeping me awake at night. And often, when I can’t sleep, I read devotionals on the Bible app on my phone and try not to wake Mr. FixIt.
I’m currently doing a Bible study by Pastor Rick Warren called “You Make Me Crazy”. On Day 18 of the 23 Day study, Pastor Rick talks about idolatry. I’ve always had a biblical understanding of idols as being craven images of gold worshiped by unbelievers. That’s not necessarily the case, says Pastor Rick. “People-pleasing” is a form of idolatry. So is your “stuff”, your “hobbies”, your “friends.” A relationship, no matter with whom, can be a form of idolatry. And, so can social media and your phone and tablet and computer. Anything that keeps you from putting God first is being made a “god” with a little g.
I’ve always had a suspicion my presence here on Facebook would evolve. I’ve toyed with the idea of having a daily “letter from home” sent to your email with a link to my post of the day over on my website, bypassing FB altogether. I’ve pictured a weekly or monthly newsletter, but honestly…changing horses in the middle of a very big stream is not necessarily easy. There have been times when I’ve thought I’ve told every story, shared every thought, taught every lesson I was sent here to share. That maybe it was time to archive the page and call it quits and just live my life.
I’’m deeply conflicted.
I’m between the proverbial rock and a hard place. Do I continue to keep a presence on a social media platform that so egregiously intended to misinform? Or, am I making entirely too much of this? I do know one thing…I have to write. Whether anyone ever reads it one more day or not. I need to write like I need to breathe. Whether what I write is important or not. Whether it’s inspired by God or just a tale of the ordinary life of a woman living in the country with a great love after loss. Right now, I’m not sure of the answer. I just know…it keeps me up some nights.
Maybe that’s a good thing. After all…it gives me time to read some scripture and gain some insight in this crazy beautiful thing we call life.
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“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
Romans 8:28 ESV
This had made me pause and think about my continued participation on FB as well. I follow another one lady (Val Woener) who intentionally left Facebook and now pushes her blog to emails. I’d certainly sign up and heck, maybe I’ll jump on this train with you! I always said I’d hang around and ‘shine a little light’ on fb, but I’m becoming more and more convinced maybe I’ll do that anywhere else but on the social media giant.
I hear you. My posts are often my “thinking out loud” moments. Thank you for following me…you give me much to think about. ?
I “ get it .” I really do . I do .
Having said that , tonight ( after taking a break from FB and still on that break – I THOUGHT ), I had an immediate family member suffer a brain bleed after an accident. We live in a TINY town – more like a village – of less than 5k. As soon as his mother shared the news on fb and asked for prayers , I found myself “ back on fb,” … asking for prayers also. We are a small , tiny , tiny family … and I turned to FB and SO MANY people have responded , the night owls . ( The level one hospital
Chaplin was in the er with the mom … and we all know that’s gets one’s attention. When his mom called me , I could FEEL the fear in her momma’s voice . And she works in CCU… so that can be a help but knowledge can also be a harsh & sad reality – if that makes sense .)
My husband and I felt so alone when we got the news … and God in Heaven knows I WAS comforted when so many , mostly locals , responded to my plea for prayers That immediate connection with fellow believers helped tremendously. ( We have previously joked that FB is like our own little newspaper . Small town living …)
We are now waiting for new scans to be repeated later this morning . We are continuing to pray and praise and give thanks . And wait …
Idolatry… I have repented for allowing my job to come first … I used my job as a way of coping. So wrong of me.
I NEED your writings, your insight , and your perspective. God has given you this gift , and I’m grateful you use it for His glory . God bless you . Sorry for a jumbled up rambling wreck of a comment !
But I hope you never quit sharing .
Thank you so much for your kind words of encouragement, Kaye. Prayers for your family member for a complete healing! ???
I understand your conflict. When you say “misinform” what are you speaking about exactly? I know that Facebook probably leans with the left wing I would just like to know what it is that is bothering you the most. All things in moderation. I like to play a game that is on the computer in the morning when I have my 2 cups of coffee. My husband and I are reading the Bible every morning. I am very social and keep up with friends we left behind in Texas when we moved to Tennessee. Yes, I get aggravated at things FB does when friends have a conservative view or post and kicked off for a time. I guess perhaps my thought is, if you don’t know what is going on how can you be “part of the change”? if one is possible…just a thought. Making others feel good is worth a lot when they may need this avenue. 🙂
By “misinform” I’m talking about algorithms that immediately categorize you by some small thing you might say, or who you follow, or what you “like”….then push information at you that is intentionally skewed to the extreme of that view. This is how people become radicalized, no matter what side of the fence you’ve landed on. Thank you so much for your insight into my dilemma. You give me much to think about. ?
Ginny I enjoy your writings so much. I do not use Instagram or tictoc I just think those might be on the edge.
But I use facebook to keep up with friends and family. We live away from our families and fb is my connection.
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FB is my avenue to my friends near and far. When you live alone all are a click away. Your daily writings are such a blessing and helps me to get my day moving. ❤️
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I have been on the same “should I, shouldn’t I” journey. I realize that a great portion of my shouldn’t argument is FOMO. I have been signing up for emails from those who do regular writings. Your answers will come ❤️?
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I would miss you and your writing.I look forward everyday to reading your beautiful stories.FB is really all the friends I have. And you would be missed.God Bless You.Hugs,
Thank you, Melba….I’ve been praying about it and Every time I get in the position, I remind myself I am here because it is my ministry. God sent this to me to help give others hope. Every time the enemy tries to convince me to leave, I have to remind myself…He who live in me is greater than he who lives in the world. So, I’m not going anywhere anytime soon. ?
I love your writing and always enjoy them. I would definitely miss them if you deleted Facebook but understand your dilemma.
Thank you, Eloise! ?
I have never commented before – but have faithfully read many months – and a few years. I understand your dilemma- but also hope you continue. I follow a few that post articles/blogs/vlogs and also recipes and crafts. But my main reason to be on facebook is to keep in contact with family and friends- some friends from childhood and all over the United States. No Instagram – no tictoc – just Facebook. And what do I do with the ads and add ons that I don’t want to read? I keep scrolling. I would appreciate you staying – This southern girl (Texas) really does enjoy reading your stories and hearing about your life in the northeast. Thanks much for sharing with us.
Thank you so, so much, dear one. You all mean more to me than you could know. ?