I love the world we live in and the technology offered to us all. At times I feel unable to keep up but eventually I learn some of the new programs, manage to use it for a while, and then whatever it is quickly becomes a very important part of my life. I believe that most of us are a bit more savvy with technology and others find their way and what works for them. One of my favorite new things, that has become a major part of most of our lives, is social networking. There are so many advantages we now have of connecting locally and around the world! We now have friends all over the planet, something we could never have managed just a few short years ago. Not only can we stay in touch with old friends – following their every move, see their pictures, keep in touch in a way we our parents would have loved to do, but we can learn by asking questions to just about anyone, anywhere, and chat with and make friends we may never actually meet in person. I love being able to be “friends” with people who are looking for connections. Whether they have similar health issues and medical problems, are looking for some words of comfort or advice, or just a cyber shoulder to lean on, I can give them all of that and more. Though I haven’t had the chance to meet most of them face to face, I feel connected to them.
Just one word of advice about this way of connecting though is that you should be sure to use the privacy settings that are available! One should always be aware of those who are looking to find out personal information, figure out your location, or to harm you in some way. You need to be on guard to this always and do social networking in a “smart” way. We need to remember, although most of us mean no harm to our cyber friends in any way, there are those who use this technology in a negative way. Go with your gut when someone is prying for too much information and let someone know if something just does not feel right. Other than that, enjoy this world we live in and use this tool to do something important, worthwhile, and helpful…let us know what it may be. We would love to hear your stories!
