The latest issue of “Faith Today” has an article on Facebook usage. Written by a woman, some of the disadvantages of Facebook are the addiction, the “high” that you get from friending people for the sake of stroking your own ego, and even the matter of time management.
I like Facebook for the communication potential. Particularly for our youth. I’m still getting used to those in teens and twenties (and even into thrities) who use text messaging constantly. I was talking with some grandparents who had taken their granddaughter out for lunch. While I talked directly to the “old generation”, the granddaughter held her cell phone (a nice lime coloured one) below table level across from her grandparents. Not to give the cell phone an open space to the air, but to read and respond to text messages.
Now, we have had the same thing with the previous generation and television. A few decades ago visiting a friend meant that the TV was turned off. Now, we almost expect that the TV will stay on as background noise, if not loud enough to hear the score or see the plot line developing.
Which brings me to the question of listening.
Facebook doesn’t require listening. Using Facebook means we deliver what we want to say. Others may comment, but often even that is just “commenting from our perspective.” Someone has said that Facebook is not good for sorrow. Text messaging may also be the same.
Watching TV and visiting doesn’t require listening. The TV story line takes precedence – it may give fodder for some discussion but more often it dominates by telling instead of listening.
There was something about a board games night where there was as much talk about life as about the game. Or that most unusual thing we call a sit down meal – no radio or TV, no other diners interrupting, no agenda than just being with the other person. Or how about tea time, not “Tim’s time”, where you are with others and no others are there to interrupt your discussion.
OK, I’m in the midst of too much technology, information overload and a lack of face time with others. I’m not against technology, information or large group opportunities. I’m just trying to balance my life. What does that look like? Any comments would be appreciated.
We have a rule in our house: no tv until homework, piano practice and certain chores are finished. Last night, that meant no tv at all, because homework, etc. took longer than usual, we had supper early because of Awana, and after Awana it was straight to bed. I told the boys that maybe they could work a little faster today, so they could have their tv time, and both of them replied that they didn’t mind…it was actually kind of “peaceful” to not have the tv on! So, we’ll see how long that lasts. It’s good with me!
tv has been non-existent in our home for quite a few years…the odd movie makes it’s way into the dvd player but the house has been quite quiet. the peaceful calm of quietness is relaxing and i think gives opportunity to talk more or just relax in peace. on the texting topic, both kids have stated that they now prefer to TALK instead of text. who’da thunk?