Grateful for social media.

People say to me sometimes that they don’t see the sense of being involved on social media, especially Facebook. I know some are fearful that ‘big brother’ is watching through our cameras, or that they are listening in, and that a mystery organization is aware of our postings and buying habits.

Some of that might be true. But, I live an open book. I don’t have anything to hide. I’m careful enough with my social security number and with credit card numbers and I have never (yet) had anyone steal my numbers through social media. I’m not saying it may never happen.

But I don’t live in fear.

This time of year with Thanksgiving next week and Christmas next month, I really enjoy the positive posts I see on Facebook. Just this morning I saw a video about a local restaurant that prepares and serves free Thanksgiving meals downtown in my town. It touched me and I plan to drop off some cash later today to help out and to give my thanks to them. Had I not seen it on social media I would not have known.

I also see the thousands of Samaritan’s Purse boxes getting collected now, that will then be sent to big centers for packing up, and to send out to children around the world.

I read uplifting messages from a local group called “Good Friends of Georgetown County” who receive donations that then go to those who are temporarily in need of funds to get by.

I admire the group that has turned the local community garden into a thriving place that produces food for many and teaches children who come on field trips to experience it, to get their hands into the soil.

There are many many more.

Facebook makes me feel good about the goodness of others. Instagram does it also, but I see more positivity more on Facebook. More in-depth stories. Pictures of people making a difference.

Maybe it’s just me, but I love – and I think I need – to see the good posts. There is so much bad and sadness everywhere else. It helps to balance what is going on in the world.

I have always said that if you have a little time each week to do something good for someone else it comes right back to you. It’s amazing how that works. It’s not an ego thing. It’s a community feeling. It’s about knowing you are one part of making love happen in our world.

Social media is fun of course. I love seeing my friends’ pictures, especially of their families. I love getting updates. Perhaps I am just seeing the best of their times, but that’s okay with me. It makes me smile.

I love feeling connected. I definitely feel more connected with my family and friends who use Facebook and Instagram. It’s not being nosy. It’s being thankful – for knowing them. I’m interested in what they are doing. Occasionally, it’s offering a kind word when they need it. But most often it’s sharing in their good times. I use emojis and maybe too many exclamation marks in my comments to them!!! But, don’t we need cheerleading? Isn’t it a good thing to celebrate even our day to day normal life??

So, with thanksgiving next week, I am grateful for all the good acts I see on social media. I appreciate those who share their good times through posts and pictures because it lifts me up too. Please eep ‘em coming. The more I see the better. I think you know who you are, but there are a few girlfriends who live far away but I still feel close to you. I love that.

Thanks for sharing the good on social media.