"F" is for Facebook

Almost two years ago, I took the plunge into social media and created a Facebook page. It is has been an ‘interesting’ experience. (It has been said that ‘interesting’ is how politicians might describe not-so-cute babies and parishoners describe not-too-good sermons.) But, Facebook has been interesting and intriguing and fun (the ‘f’ word!).

I get to see the latest pictures of my favorite grandchildren (for the record, they are all favorites!). I get to hear about things going on with my family and friends. I have made some contacts with family and friends that I might not otherwise have made.

Facebook is a bit of an ‘odd duck’. It is very public, yet, it can become the vehicle for revealing some private thoughts or concerns or ideas. At times, this can be awkward to read. At times, this can be refreshing. At times, there can be a very personal connection – an affirmation, a quiet nod of the head, as I read what was shared by a Facebook friend. At times, I understand that it may be time to go offline and try to connect or I just tuck something away for later conversation.

Facebook is very democratic – as long as you can muster up some Facebook friends, you have an audience – for your jokes, for your commentary, for your itinerary, for your likes. By the way, there is no ‘unlike’ or ‘that is awful’ or ‘that is outrageous’ button when someone shares some sad news or a link describing the culture gone crazy. So, it challenges friends to note that post in the appropriate way – you might have to share a comment!

But, Facebook is about Feedback. There is always a bit of a risk when you post something out into that big world (How many friends do you have?)How will people react? Will anyone react? Will anyone read or share or like your post, your picture, your comment? Will anybody care -- What you think? Where you are? What’s bugging you? What’s making you laugh or think or cry? Maybe sometimes, you don’t even care – you just want to get something off your mind and put it out into the world. An act of defiance – I care about this! I want to say this! I don’t care if anyone is listening/reading!

But, I suppose, in the end, we do care. We do want people to notice and like us. (Like Sally Field’s comment on winning the Oscar: “You like me!”)When I write something clever, I do want people to read it and think, “My, he is so clever!”

Facebook gives us a little face time in a world that seems ready to pass us by. Facebook gives a little affirmation, in a world that seems to go on its own agenda. Facebook gives us a smaller world (pond) in which we can swim with a little less resistance, a little more familiarity and comfort; and, there is always a friend who will post and give us access to fish swimming in other ponds. Yes, it is fun!

So, I remain faithful to Facebook, looking for the latest posts from friends and pictures of my grandchildren, and, yes, ‘likes’ from my fans – I know they are out there!

-Musings on life and faith by Pastor Steve Godsall-Myers of Advent Lutheran Church in Harleysville. Join us at www.adventharleysville.org or find us on Facebook.