Social and Media

Social media are defined and valued by how we use them.

Yes. “Media” is a plural word and “medium” is the singular form.

Media are means to an end. Social media are tools for communication.

We have a wide range of possibilities for using the tools. Two of mine are prayer and prayerful concern

Another is encouragement. I feel fulfilled when I can encourage people.

For me, online friends are real friends.

I find out what I need to be reading, listening to, and watching based upon friends’ recommendation.

We collaborate on big ideas.

Then, there are puppies, kittens, cute pictures, and jokes.

There is music

Then, there is education.

Of course, it is all communication. It is a bag of tools and every age has its tools for communication. If you want to meet people, you have to meet them where they are with the tools available.

What is your favorite social medium and why?

Sometimes these platforms give me a soapbox for my ideas and sometimes a conference table for collaboration. Out of that collaboration come bigger ideas, mutual understanding, and respect.

Sometimes people complain about mean-spirited postings on Facebook, too much drama, too much politics, inconsequential conversations, and wasted time.

That is not my experience.

I have built my platforms for the most part. I have had a hand in creating my communities. I set the tone for my on-line presence and pages.

It is largely up to me what I experience, with some exceptions.

Facebook is one of the best tools I have ever had at my disposal for intercessory prayer as well as the nurturing of community and friendship. I utilize others as well.

They keep me “in-the-know,” so that I can pray more effectively with my mind even as my spirit prays. Combine all the media into one singular entity and it connects us in a network of caring, even for people we have never met.

Like any “tool,” it can be misused.

It is neutral as a technology; but it is powerful as an instrument for potential good.

Are we using social networking to build people?

If not, why not?

It is really all within our control.