Contemplations about Facebook

Over the past month or so I have been thinking about taking down my Facebook page. I have been contemplating this for a couple of reasons. The first is simply because I rarely logon, so I am not using it much anymore. The second reason is a bit more complicated.

Although I like the idea of being connected and keeping up on what is going on, it has changed the way I interact with other people. Rather than stopping in to visit someone, or making a phone call to a friend, I post something on my Facebook page. Facebook has changed the way I commune with others, and in many ways, it has become very impersonal.

Facebook has some great advantages. For one, it is very convenient to post something and let everyone read it at their convenience. It is also a great way to keep up on what my family and friends are doing. Facebook is also a great way to promote an organization or event such as our churches and other ministries. Facebook has changed the way we share information. But there are a few drawbacks as well.

A critical part of sharing and living out my faith involves spending time with others in a community of family and friends. I would rather talk to someone over the phone or have a conversation over a cup of coffee than sit in front of my computer. I spend enough time in front of my computer. Creating and developing relationships takes time and effort, and the rewards are much greater than the impersonal relationships I have on social networking sites such as Facebook.

I am going to keep my Facebook for the many advantages I mentioned, but I am going to change the way I do things. Perhaps it is something you want to consider. Rather than posting a note about something cool that is going on in my life, I will pick up the phone and call a friend to tell them about it. I will go to a coffee shop to meet with friends and share what is going on in my life, and in turn, listen to what is going on in theirs. Who knows? I might even make a new friend while I am sitting in the coffee shop waiting on a friend.

Blessings,

jim