Social media has enabled us to share glimpses of our lives to anyone who wants to see it. We're natural voyeurs because it's how we learn from each other. We're always curious about what our neighbors are doing. We look to each other for advice, consolation, and celebration. The internet and all the available platforms have connected us on a global scale. Like a small, close-knit community, we all know each other's business. I have to tell you, though, some of that information should stay a secret.
I don't have a reply when you're unhappy because you're stuck in traffic. I'm more concerned that you're on Facebook while you're driving. You could be the reason for the traffic jam. I don't know what to say when you're complaining about your job and your co-workers online. Do you want to get fired? I don't know what emoji I should use when you post that you're having trouble going to the bathroom. I guess I could recommend a good gastroenterologist followed with a poop emoji. I hope that helps.
Some people have no problem oversharing all aspects of their day to day life online. Apparently, we need to know what they made for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; how much weight they've lost or gained, and of course, why does their stomach hurt. Now, I see the popularity of the poop emoji.
My friend, Dawn once said, "I think we need to keep our virtual curtains closed." I agree. I find it uncomfortable reading about a friend's struggle to find the right cat toy and then not knowing the outcome. Obviously, you wanted us all to know the different stores you've tried and that you were experimenting with several recommendations you received. Well, did you go with the bird teaser with feathers or the plush mouse cat toy? I hate not knowing the ending of a story I didn't care about in the first place.
I understand the popularity of social media. I enjoy looking at pictures of my friends' lives and reading about their successes. It doesn't depress me at all that they're way happier than I am. I'm glad Cheryl is having fun in the Bahamas even though she still hasn't paid me back the fifty bucks I lent her. I only feel joy when I read about my co-worker's promotion. I'm sure he deserved it way more than me. I like posting lots of little red hearts to show my love to yet another friend who quit sugar and is now training for her first 10K. I don't feel bad that I just ate a whole bowl of KitKats.
It takes me a while to get to know people and share personal stories with them. I prefer having conversations on the phone or having a virtual visit. I don't think I'll ever be willing to post intimate events unless I'm drinking champagne, then all truths come out. I make it my policy not to drink and post for that reason. I'll continue to read and enjoy my friends' snapshots and writings, but I'll refrain from giving medical advice. I'll stick to using silly faces as my answer.