I had a break from Facebook a while ago and it was a good thing, but ultimately Facebook rules my life because it’s my bloody log-in to most things. (This is how they get you!) This morning, after seeing bullshit on my own feed, other people’s feeds, nasty comments and stressful accusations everywhere about politics, children, money, politics, cancer, health, politics, and worse in-fighting than a cabinet meeting during the Rudd years, I had the realisation I could turn people into acquaintances!
Then I was thinking that Facebook is now such a big part of friendships/relationships, it’s now another factor in the settlement after a relationship breakdown.
All of the following phrases I have heard from people navigating breakups.
‘Should I unfriend him on Facebook?’
‘But we’re friends on Facebook.’
‘I think she’s blocked me.’
Unfriending is a big step on Facebook and while I don’t hit ’em and quit ’em often, I do have certain rules around this act.
It must only be done under the following circumstances. If:
You think I’m funny, yes? You think the list is hilarious and OTT?
All of these them are real. Yes. They have either happened to me or one of my friends/family.
People are fucking insane.
There is a saying in acting that you must be responsible for the energy you bring into the rehearsal space. I try to be responsible for this in all areas of my life.
Is there anything worse than someone who is always grumpy when you see them? Is there anything worse than speaking to crotchety people IRL?
Why do we allow it to continue online?
There are two FB friends of mine who both share jokes every morning on their feed. It’s not even about if they’re funny or not, it’s the act that they bring that I love.
Another friend is a foodie and posts wonderful images of her meals and meals from around the world.
Another friend is a political addict but only posts funny things about the subject and never allows fighting on her feed.
Another friend puts up videos of her cats, which is funny and cute.
Another friend puts up photos of her chicken, which have funny names like – Maggie Hatcher.
Another friend put up inspiring soulful images of hippy shit which I don’t really understand, but I appreciate her energy.
There is a place on Facebook for activism. I see people who are passionate about stopping domestic violence and drink driving and bad education and pushing for same-sex marriage. All of these are valid and necessary. What is not, is the bullshit that people spew online. If you wouldn’t say it to someone’s face, then don’t say it on Facebook. That’s what blogs are for!
Peace out.
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