Why I Continue to Post on Facebook

I am not an apologist for social media—it can be divisive, time-consuming, and distasteful. Even so, I continue to post regularly on Facebook. Here are my reasons:

Posting reminds me to celebrate the good things of life—family, friends, special occasions. I am reminded of the blessings of present and past relationships. That’s why you will see lots of pictures of my grandchildren and great grandchildren!

Posting allows me to connect with a large community of people with both similar and diverse opinions. Many of these are trusted friends and colleagues. I want to maintain that contact, not matter how tenuous.

Posting is a way to encourage others. I share scripture, key quotes, and ideas that have caught my attention. There’s enough negativity out there; let’s encourage each other with positive ideas.

Posting gives me the opportunity to teach. That may sound a bit presumptuous, but I consider myself an educator—primarily in history, religion, and psychology. I like to share historical facts that remind us both of our rich heritage and our frequent shortsightedness.

Posting allows me to engage with other people on specific topics. My posts are often questions rather than statements in order to elicit input from others. Someone once posted, “You are almost kind to a fault in your comments.” I take that as a compliment.

Posting requires me to be responsible. In recent days, I have disciplined myself not to share quotes, memes, or articles without authentication. It may be funny or engaging, but is it true? I often will respond to a posting with the question, “What’s your source?” My bias is toward established news media such as the BBC, NPR, New York Times, Baptist News Global, and the Religious News Service. I also use Snopes from time to time to get clarity about the factuality of a story.

Am I taking this too seriously? Why don’t I just use the medium to criticize and be a grumpy old man? Because if my name is on it, it reflects me and what I value. And it keeps me engaged with people I care about. Not trying to impose my ideas on others, but this is where I am.

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