I would add that if someone you know has made a comment that offends you, please let them know what that comment was and give them an option of explaining, rescinding, or apologizing. Not long ago, a former student (with whom I had been sharing common thoughts for several years) suddenly messaged me with a "How dare you say such a thing? I have forever lost all respect for you!" All our interaction had been deleted, and to this day I have no clue as to what I said/implied that was so offensive! We may not be perfect people, but we do deserve a chance.
What a thoughtful analysis of what can happen and does happen on social media. I think the phrase regression to the extremes is really important. It’s so intimately connected with not having a relationship to the person you talk to. I like your to do list. I will be sharing it widely.
I'm probably not the only one who reads comments only to get a laugh. With the exception of The Incision which has great commenters who are thoughtful. But it's my rule for the rest of the Internet - laugh, never cry.
I would add that if someone you know has made a comment that offends you, please let them know what that comment was and give them an option of explaining, rescinding, or apologizing. Not long ago, a former student (with whom I had been sharing common thoughts for several years) suddenly messaged me with a "How dare you say such a thing? I have forever lost all respect for you!" All our interaction had been deleted, and to this day I have no clue as to what I said/implied that was so offensive! We may not be perfect people, but we do deserve a chance.
This is such an important point, Connie. I'm sorry that happened. The faux outrage isn't worth damaging relationships.
What a thoughtful analysis of what can happen and does happen on social media. I think the phrase regression to the extremes is really important. It’s so intimately connected with not having a relationship to the person you talk to. I like your to do list. I will be sharing it widely.
Glad this resonated, Susan! Thanks, always, for reading and supporting.
I'm probably not the only one who reads comments only to get a laugh. With the exception of The Incision which has great commenters who are thoughtful. But it's my rule for the rest of the Internet - laugh, never cry.
This a very important issue. If we were humble, forgiving, and understanding a lot of would go away. I have much to learn yet.