Joining Facebook

This must be the season of technology! Several friends convinced me to join facebook, much to the disappointment of my children – neither of whom want to be my friend. I had hesitated to join facebook even amidst hearing about lots of people “my age” joining. It just seemed like another thing to check besides my current three email accounts. I didn’t want to make the commitment or take on the responsibility of more communication. What convinced me to join was a couple of experiences I had at NRC in December. First, lots of people talked about being on Facebook, to the point where I felt a little left out. Some friends encouraged me to join, well in fact, I would call it badgered me to join. Talk about peer pressure! I guess I just wanted to see what all of the hoopla was about. Also, I went to a session where the presenters discussed the concept of “wobbly identities” referring to the way technology is changing how we present ourselves to others. And this way of presenting ourselves is always changing. Maybe as a teacher who promotes technology, I should consider my web presence – or fix my lack of it.
So I took the plunge, and I am glad I did. Already I have been in touch with several relatives and friends who I only typically contact through Christmas cards. I have seen photos of cousins and their children that I do not usually get to see. I have learned how and where to post messages, and my children are enjoying the opportunity to teach me something new. Plus on cold, wintery days when it’s just me and my computer, I can be connected to people by reading about the movie my niece is watching or a friend’s trip to the mall. Exciting stuff - but I guess that’s what life is about.