R U Connected--the Business of "Friending"

I don't know about you, but I'm a little worried about the state of humanity.

All this business about "friends" on the multitude of social media websites scares me.
(True, it does have benefits as witnessed during the demonstrations in Iran, and more so in Egypt.)

Yet, still I'm concerned.

Why?

First , because while these sites offer convenient ways to stay in touch, it's not real. It represents a virtual connection (granted, better than none).
When was the last time you sat down and enjoyed a relaxed, heartfelt chat with a dear friend, perhaps over coffee or tea? Add to that, this conversation took place without interruption from someone's smartphone, signaling an email, a text, a Tweet…(you get the idea).

Second, many of the so-called "friends" on these sites, you probably have never met in person. (Personally, I try to only add people I truly "know", in the sense of having met or having had significant discourse.)

How many of your Facebook friends would be there for you in an emergency or crisis, such as a financial bind, or a death of a loved one?

Finally, and most disturbing to me, social media has been invaded by corporations, under the guise of seeking "friends" (read that as customers). "Friending" has become the hot business of the 21st century.

Make no mistake: it is the rare corporation that truly cares about you, rather their interest lies in what your purse or wallet contains. Furthermore, regardless of how friendly their social media site appears, they are selling something.

Do true friends try to sell you something every time you get together?

Is it not that real friends are there to listen to you, to share with you, even laugh over a funny anecdote?
(I hope so.)

In the immortal words of Mother Teresa:
"If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other."

With that, put down your phone and connect with a true friend (in person) today.
Heartfelt wishes to all☺


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