Facebook Makes People Sad

In my post entitled facebook, I discussed the advantages and disadvantages of being on facebook. One that I came across and mentioned didn't really qualify as a 'con' to me, mostly because I couldn't identify but over the last few months it has began to make sense. Facebook makes people sad.

This phenomenon that seems to be so imposing that it cannot be ignored goes as follows:

One of the most unavoidable deceptions of social networking sites is that people put their best foot forward and conceal their worst foot. No one wants other people to know when they are struggling or depressed or abused.

Those who are either married or in relationships put up pictures that communicate that they are hopelessly in love, athletes put up pictures of them being awarded for their successes. Graduates put up their graduation portrait. People always mention how much fun their having, at the best place, with the best people.

Consequently on lookers, who by the way are probably guilty of the same, develop a lopsided view of their others. It begins to occur to them that their friends are living lives which are more fun and enjoyable than theirs, and are invariably happier than they are. Sadness then sets in.

I guess I can understand this. Its easy to read of someone preparing for their wedding and thinking, "I don't even have a boyfriend or girlfriend" or "I am so far from being ready to marry my mate". One who is jobless reading of someone who got promoted would obviously feel quite sad about their situation. Someone not progressing in life may find it depressing to read, everyday, of all their friend's advances in society. A couple with no children will see all the baby pictures their fellow couples are putting up and find it rather depressing. Those who haven't done well in their exams will inevitably be bombarded by updates from friends who have. Yes, facebook does have a saddening effect on us.

I guess the second most important thing to remember is that the grass is always greener on the other side. They say, and it's true, that many would refuse to switch lives, after they walk, just for a day, in the shoes of those whose lives they admire. Seeing the often concealed, downside of other's lives might leave you thankful for the downside of yours.

The most important thing to remember is that the Lord is sovereign. Whatever the other person has that you don't is no accident or mistake. God planned for things to be the way they are, and he has a plan that if you trust and obey, will leave you happy and Him glorified. Do the right and trust Him.