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Are people really who you THINK they are?

The husband and I were having an intense conversation this morning about our online circle of friends. Every day we log into our Facebook accounts and read the good, the bad and the ugly that goes on day-to-day of our "friends". Dwayne was saying how people assume so much off of posts that they fail to realize what is really real. For example he was saying how you might have a person living a certain lifestyle through social media and in reality this person might be going through a domestic violence situation. This is very true. We don't necessarily reveal the whole truth about ourselves online. Dwayne and I constantly go back and fourth about online interaction and how real-life interaction is dwindling. Then on the other hand, if you are not involved in social media you will get left behind. For me, I get so much from my online friends. I have learned so much that has helped me in my life and I love to share my views with others. If I can encourage just one person in some way then I feel I am using social media for good. I have made some amazing connections as well as some creepy ones. I do learn from both sides in different ways every day. It's funny that I do have local, personal people in my life that it seems to be a greater struggle to get together more than my online contacts. Interesting....

Shelly, Mom Files
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7 comments

  1. I agree! I have had to slap myself on the wrist because I have fell in the traps of looking at someone's facebook page and oh and ahhhing over what they ?proclaim? to have. As much as you hate to do it as you mentioned SM is such an integral part of life, it's almost gotten to the point where it's not normal to function without it.
    Glad you mentioned this because me and hubby were talking about this not to long ago !

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  2. Shelly, I saw a status update that went something like this: "Face your problems. Don't Facebook them." I think for some social media is a total escape from reality. We'll never know who they are. And then there are those who the quote applies to, who constantly update all that is wrong in their lives. That's why I'm so happy that I met real down to earth people such as yourself.

    Hugs and Mocha,
    Stesha

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  3. People are always interesting. And it does take a few years to really get to know someone online. Sometimes it's easier if they are blogging and sharing about their lives to know a bit more.

    However, many people find it best to either be more honest online, because they can hide behind the internet (or so they think) or they be more discreet, because of just not wanting their lives in broadcast, or they project what they wish they could be living.

    So you never know.

    At the same time, I agree with you. SM is an integral part of life now and it does have it's good and bad, you just have to know how to use it as good. And for me, like you, I've learned alot and met some very nice people online.

    But sadly I think someone would rather hear someone's voice on the phone, than see type in an offline, email, fb comment, etc.

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  4. I think in part, people don't want their "business" on the internet, so yes...only one side...typically the "good" side is shown. Who wants to be bothered with a Negative Nelly?

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  5. I agree, it is hard to know a person's whole story online. There is a lot that we just won't know, because folks dont usually reveal it all. But, on the other hand, like yourself I've made some really wonderful connections online, and some of my blogging girlfriends have become my closets friends (i mean, being in their weddings, baby showers, etc). I love how social media is able to connect folks in that way.

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  6. If there was ever a post which summed up my online sentiments I've just read. I wholeheartedly agree with everything being said. Interesting how you speak of the domestic violence situation. I met a female blogger a couple years ago and after we became comfortable with one another I was AMAZED at the things she revealed which were completely from her online persona. There are many different reasons why people are drawn to online interactions, but, at the end of the day, I hope all my experiences are of the positive nature.

    Good read.

    You made a good point, as well, speaking on how it's essential to establish social networks or, basically, become left behind.

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  7. I am glad you encourage online. When you sent me the surprise in the mail, I cried. It came at a time I was stressed and it made me smile.

    And you encouraged me to pass it on and the person I gifted felt like I did. Someone I have never met in person just like you.

    Thanks for the kindness.

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