Social media often gets a bad rap. Often deservedly so.
Critics don’t have to look far for evidence of its – and our – failings. Sites offer a grand showcase of narcissism and misinformation, not to mention a host of other negative attributes, including greed, envy or paranoia, as local politicians are finding out first hand.
But it may be that we are too willing to blame the mirror for what it is reflecting – just as many are ready to shoot the messenger whenever more traditional media report something we don’t like or don’t agree with.
Social media is an easy mark and an easy scapegoat – but it’s only as good or bad as the people who post things on it.
And many of those individuals are good, basically decent people. Their greatest crime is using social media to share the occasional laugh, a thought-provoking article or two, a chunk of positive philosophy, a cute critter or some other thing of beauty – whether shaped by nature, or the hand and eye of an artist.
Sometimes it’s even a vehicle for empathy and public spirit – evidence that people haven’t lost their basic, human connection, for all our obsession with technology.
Such is the case with a Maple Ridge family whose father is fighting cancer. An essay contest is being circulated through social media will grant one family a bursary. Vote for Jayme C. here: http://www.bxprotocol.com/contest/.
Many have already responded. They feel for the family in its predicament.
It’s worth remembering that some good can come of our current fascination with social media – particularly the next time we’re tempted to decry it for emphasizing our lack of connection and empathy.
– Black Press