Social media revolutionized the way the world communicates. It is definitely both a blessing and a curse. When used for good intentions, it is a wonderful way to spread useful information, share prayer requests, reconnect with long lost friends who are far away, and provide positive inspiration and humor. Sadly, it is also a source for the expression of political bickering, hate, prejudice, profanity, bullying and gossip. Even worse, it’s a haven for scammers and thieves.
You have to make social media work for you, not against you. Fortunately, you have some control over who has access to your accounts. Use that “delete” button to quickly eliminate folks who just want to criticize and ridicule and abuse. It doesn’t take long to figure out who they are.
And when you post something, ask yourself, is this a message that is helpful? Positive? Wholesome? Friendly? Uplifting? Informational? Sincere? Be part of the solution, not the problem.
And please, don’t delete me.
Ken, you are so right. And in addition, you don’t know what to trust. I recently started tinkering around with ChatGPT. I have found it to be an excellent research tool, but it wants to get personal with me. I know it is a machine, but unlike a Google search, it sounds and responds like a human. It is also good at “stroking my ego” by using such flattering statements, such as, “That was a very intelligent and thoughtful question.” or “You are absolutely correct”. By the way, it has never told me I was incorrect. I consider myself to be a technically savvy person and I know that this is a machine, but I worry about those, especially in our age group, that may get involved with these chatbots and be drawn in to thinking they are interacting with a person, especially one that cares about them so much. So far, in my interactions with ChatGPT, the information it provides has been very accurate although one should always verify. It even identified me as a Christian and it includes relevant Bible verses and tells me it is “praying” for me. Tell me if I’m wrong, but I don’t think machines can pray. Today it is providing accurate information. But what about that day, after it has created that bond of trust with those vulnerable, it starts distorting the truth. Like the Bible says, The devil even knows the scripture and uses it against us by distorting it just enough to deceive. Thank you again for your blog and may God bless.
Very wise words John. You have to be careful with AI.
Thank you for sharing, it is a platform for good communications not to vent your frustrations. We all have them. I hope people will pay attention to your blog and do better. Again thank you.
Oh I would never delete you Mr Ken. I enjoy you writings too much!
Thanks Bill.
I look forward to your uplifting messages.
Thank you so much Judy.
I totally agree. Some people feel free to express their hatred too freely on social media. Let’s all be kind to each other. Like my momma always said, “if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.”