Facebook: Love or Hate?

I saw a poll recently about media: if there were some kind of emergency and you had time to grab only ONE media item, which would it be? I didn't even look through the entire list. I don't remember everything on the list. Hands down, I'd save a computer, my laptop to be exact. I don't know what I'd do without it, other than go crazy. When my laptop crashed last summer, I didn't last a week before I commandeered my husband's extra work laptop and made him keep it home. I was having serious withdrawal symptoms, literally shaking.

So it got me thinking about how much I rely on my computer, and the ability to go online. The first things I do are check my email or facebook. Now, soapbox time . . . I know some people who refuse to join facebook. Whether it's because they know they'd spend too much time on it (good reason) or they have no need (legitimate) I can understand. But I was told by one individual that they wouldn't join facebook because it was evil. Yes, evil, my friends. Facebook was designed to get you to meet people online (specifically meet up with old boy/girl-friends) and have an affair, thus ruining your marriage. That was the fear this individual had. Well, I know it's possible, but REALLY? It seems so unlikely. And if someone really were in the frame of mind to have an affair, they're going to do it whether it is on facebook or not. Facebook is not inherently evil, my friends. It's what you do with it that matters.

I enjoy being able to see what my friends and family are up to at a glance. I like being able to see how things are going for them. And I am grateful for the convenience of contacting many people at once. For example, I live in the boonies. No, not really, but I do live quite a ways from any shopping, and running errands is an all day chore. So, when I need something for a school project due tomorrow or an ingredient for dinner, I don't want to have to drive 20+ minutes to get what I need. I post my need on facebook and see if anyone close can help. A week ago, a "friend" posted a need for help with a costume (our 5th graders had to dress up as a character for their "wax museum") for the next day. After reading her facebook post, I knew I could help her out. This past week it was me needing the help, on a major project of gathering supplies for a skit. This scenario happens at least once a week, and anyone of my neighbors who've been saved a trip to town appreciates it.

And when it comes to meeting people online, I love it. Personally, I've met some FABULOUS people online, and facebook is our number one way of staying in touch. I can cheer on B's child at science fair, send my support for S's girl having surgery, get a good laugh at the stories K shares, or let L know I'm thinking about her during labor. I can see pictures that T shares while still in New Zealand, or watch the videos of G's dance group while they're still on tour. In our fast paced world, I am so grateful I can still show my love and support to all my friends and family whether they live close by, in another state, or half way around the world (hi M in Australia!).

And for all those who keep complaining about the poking, gaming, and constant updates: you can block those things and stop complaining to the rest of us about it.