I joined Facebook in July of 2007. My first post proved to be most appropriate for this blog post. Over the last year I’ve been bothered and burdened about my role in the epidemic known as social media.
To start, I feel as though I have contributed to the negative impact it has had on my life along with the many people called “Facebook Friends.” I take responsibility for venting frustrations, using humor at the expense of others, and caring far too much about what reaction or response my posts would receive.
In a more positive light, Facebook has connected me with family, friends, coworkers, and former students in a way that would have been impossible without this platform. I’ve enjoyed sharing the beauty of my growing family and seeing the same in the lives of others.
However, Facebook is not what it once was. Today Facebook has become a soap-box for every would-be politician, a dumping ground for any angry or disgruntled person, and a breeding ground for division. My reason for stepping away has less to do with all of that and more to do with how I have allowed Facebook to impact me.
Ten years later I am not better for being a Facebook user. I sense that my use of Facebook has, at minimum, slowed my maturity and growth as a person much less a follower of Jesus. I’m disappointed in myself for allowing something so unimportant and temporary to have such a hold on my devotion to Christ and service to His people.
In light of this realization, I’m stepping away. At this point I’m not sure if this will be a permanent result or just a season. I’m hopeful to never return to Facebook again as I highly doubt the deterioration of social media will right itself.
To my family and friends, I will continue to use Instagram and Twitter for now. I share this decision in hopes that you too will consider Facebook’s effect on your growth as a person or Christ-follower.
This is not an effort to lift myself up. Honestly, this post is more of a confession and a step in repentance.
May God be glorified in all we say, do, and post.