Social media gives the illusion of community without the practical benefits
Summary
- Social media makes you feel that you are connected to a community
Details
- But the benefits of real contact are lost such as phsical contact like a touch or a hug, giving undivided contact or a slap on the back.
References
Quotes
Social media gives the illusion of community – makes people think they are connected and part of something – and in a way, they are. But nothing beats real contact. You can only tell how someone is doing by hearing their voice or, better still, seeing their face. Comfort comes – proper comfort – from the holding of a hand or a big, squeezing hug. Small personal triumphs, little breakthroughs, should be shared and celebrated. Doubts, despairs and sadnesses can be given a new, perhaps more dealable-with, perspective if talked about with someone who can put the kettle on, push a box of tissues your way and just listen. Give undivided attention. Laughing on your own is rarely the glorious, shoulder-shaking, tears-rolling-down-the-face abandon that it can be with other people. And there are few things more restorative than a good laugh.