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I've just come across this interview with the author, so it might be worth a read if you're interested in it at all. He reiterates some of the important messages of his book, namely how some people use social media to replace face-to-face conversation.
The Blessings and Curses of Social Media: An Interview with Unfriend Yourself Author Kyle Tennant
Great article, especially in the context of faith communities. I liked what he said about how we can think we're "done" taking care of a need with a simple two word response in situations where in-person contact is far more appropriate.
ReplyDelete"For example: we see on Facebook that a friend went into the hospital. We type a quick “Praying!” or “Get Well Soon!” underneath the status update, and we feel like we’ve just done our job."
DeleteIt's crazy how true and sad that is. Would it really be that hard to make a quick call? To stop in to visit?
Interesting interview, thanks. Face-to-face contact is so much more rewarding.
ReplyDeleteGlad you enjoyed it! I find that too, but I understand the draw and ease of turning to social media as an alternative. It's something this book helped me to re-prioritize. :)
DeleteI think there was a social media bubble there for a bit. So many people flocked to Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest as if to identify with self, got all caught up in the game of garnering attention, feasting on drama, and finally realizing the intended audience simply slipped away.
ReplyDeleteIt would be a great thing for people to emerge from their desks, devices, and virtual worlds. Come out and take a breather, get some real social time with real people. :)
Yes, I think that now that people have been so engaged in these ways for awhile, some of these issues are coming to light. I know some people would never give up social media, and I wouldn't argue for that, anyway. I just think we've lost something along the way.
DeleteThere's a way for social media and in-person relationships to co-exist, some people just need a little nudge in finding that balance.