A worrying trend that is on the upsurge recently, is the need to post private issues on social media. In the last 24 hours I’ve spotted several posts, all of which I’ve unfollowed as they contained accusations of infidelity, family arguments, accusations etc.
All of the posts had one central theme, they were intended to shame the named individual. Trial by social media. The “you ok hun” brigade commented en masse, hurling further insults toward the individual, who in some cases were tagged in posts or named fully.
Foul language & name calling, in some cases a complete character assassination takes place in the comments section.
Sometimes people’s ignorance really does leave me speechless. Text messages / Facebook posts & snapchats are now admissible in court. When you post something online it stays in cyber space forever.
Folk become very brave behind a computer screen, and will post statements that would never see the light of day otherwise.
Are we losing the art of conversation? We check our phones rather than strike up a conversation with a stranger. Our emotions are now status updates? We cannot go anywhere without checking in or god forbid there’s no WiFi connection…
Facebook can be an incredibly toxic place. Posting a vindictive status takes minimum effort & can have a massive impact on an individual’s life. There is an old expression “ What you are speaks so loudly, I cannot hear a word that you’re saying”.
Never post a status if you’re angry. Put your phone/ laptop away. Phone a friend & vent. Get out for a walk. Keep your private life…PRIVATE.
Facebook can be a force for good, it can be used to uplift, educate & enlighten. You can stay connected to old friends, family & build a strong sense of community online. It should not be used to slander, intimidate or degrade.
The same goes for passive aggressive memes / pictures. Just because you didn’t write it doesn’t mean the blame lies solely at your feet for being so bloody immature.
Maturity is understanding another’s point of view, even though you may not agree with that person. You have every right to post what you want in your wall, within reason.
Using Facebook as a platform to hurl abuse at another is wrong, regardless of the details. If you see a defamatory post you can report it & keep scrolling…
Don’t engage, as the folk that tend to comment on these are the medieval equivalent of villagers with torches & will come for you! The Buddha had an expression which I have amended for Facebook! Before you post let your words pass through three gates:
Is it true?
Is it necessary?
Is it kind?
©️Fiona Ní Mhuirri
Away with the Faery 