Like most things in life that become popular, I’m not in sync. It seems like I’m either late or not invited. My wife and I are Baby Boomers. We got lost somewhere along the way with Generations X, Y, and Z, but I also take pride in not always going with the latest fad or trend. It doesn’t mean I necessarily think less of people who always follow the crowd, but that’s never going to be me, and I’m okay with that.
When it comes to technology and social media, I am definitely behind the times. Instagram? I took a few photos, but who cares what I look like or where I’ve been? TikTok? I’ve seen a few videos that were pretty funny or creative, but unless I’m inspired to make something funny, I can’t see ever doing one. Snapchat? I think it’s more for young people. Why give our son more ammunition to make fun of his parents? There are plenty more forms of social media I’m unfamiliar with, but this old dinosaur has survived 62 years already without them. I’m happy living my best life as an old geezer.
Facebook? Now we’ve finally gotten to one that’s more my speed. Facebook started back in 2004, but I resisted for years. I knew what it was and heard friends talk about their posts for years, but right away, I saw it as a means to get sucked into a lot of unnecessary drama. It seemed humorous that people I worked with often commented on something they had seen on the other’s feed last night. I didn’t see the point. If it’s on your phone and you want a friend to see it, why not send it to them in a text or, heaven forbid, hand them your phone for a couple of seconds at work.
After about ten years, I finally succumbed and joined. I have to admit, a decade later, I usually spend a few minutes on Facebook most days. The big attraction for me was getting the opportunity to discover what happened to former students that I hadn’t heard about in years. As a teacher, you often have moments of wondering whatever happened to some of them. I’m happy to have uncovered some of those mysteries. It’s like watching the first part of a movie; I had to know how it turned out.
I’m one of those people who finds that everyday life has plenty of funny and head-scratching moments. Facebook is comedic gold when it comes to humor. Here are just a few of the things I find hilarious:
- Does anyone else find it funny that people take pictures of their food? I understand if it’s a wedding cake or something else that took a lot of effort to prepare, but that’s not the situation I’m describing. I’m talking about the burrito you got at Taco Bell or your omelet from Denny’s. What’s next? Here’s where I spilled some gravy on my shirt.
- We know that for some, Facebook is the home for airing one’s political grievances. Let’s not pretend that one side holds the market on this stuff. People love sharing their opinions and finding others with the same viewpoints. Occasionally, they wander off into enemy waters and fire up the other side by speaking their truth. What typically ensues is eventually the name-calling starts—nothing like setting an excellent example for your children. What I find comical is that some people continue to hammer their agenda day after day. Did you think we didn’t understand your position after your 500th post about the same thing?
- Speaking of arguments, how is it possible that some threads go on and on for hours? Humans have this unwavering desire to be correct, even to the point where we won’t let go of an argument that is going nowhere. Do we believe these long-winded debates change anyone’s mind? While I don’t engage in these never-ending conflicts, I confess that I’ve scrolled through 100 + comments to see where things went off the rails.
- People love to complain about whatever is bothering them. Where else can we do that any better than Facebook? My favorite complaints are the ones that people write to complain about Facebook. If it’s so terrible, then why are you still here?
- Now we have the Facebook police and Facebook jail which gives us more things to complain about. Damn you, Mark Zuckerburg! You found my puppy post insensitive and politically offensive!
Now, I’ll peacefully retreat into the life of a Boomer. Can somebody please tell me where I put my shopping list and show me how to operate this remote? I can’t find my owner’s manual anywhere!
Pete Springer 
The interesting thing about social media is that I get to see a whole new side of someone that I didn’t expect. Like the quiet person in real life may be the most politically-active commenter, or the friendly dude would end up being the person who shares the darkest thoughts. Kinda pays to be mindful of what we share on our own feeds.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great point, Stuart. We often have no idea what someone is like until we see their social media posts. Of course, then there are those who portray a totally fake image
LikeLike
I loved your comment about posting a point of view for the 500th time. I agree, yes, we get it!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, we didn’t get it until then. 🤣
LikeLike
I enjoyed Facebook as it conveniently sidelined Hi5 at the time and after catching up with virtually all my high school buddies, playing a few interactive games and scrolling through comments I got bored. Switched to Instagram which has an easier interface for me. Tik tok is way too distracting and extremely addictive for my liking.
LikeLike
I’m probably much older than you, so Facebook is more my speed. I know Instagram isn’t going to be a part of the equation. Tik Tok seems like something I would have done with my buddies goofing around, but it doesn’t hold much appeal to me now. I’m at the funny place where I don’t want to learn it all, but I also don’t want to be left in the technology dust. Thanks for stopping by to comment.
LikeLike
Hi Pete, Thanks for reading my WordPress site on Humour. I just read yours on FB. Being an’octogenarian (better than an octopus I suppose – tho’ I’ve nothing personal against them) – I am a technological dunce, happy to write and type, attach, forward and save on line, but not much else…and my mobile phone just doesn’t like me! I use Facebook, briefly, no photos of snacks though…..mostly, hopefully amusing quips my husband enjoys making and contacting friends and family members,. birthday greetings, etc., I only put posts on my WordPress site once a month (well I send them to my eldest son in Denmark and he does the neccessary re photos, bless him). I Chair for a group called Writers’ Ink. here in Spain, adjacent to Facebook, if you’d care to check it out. All credit to you for teaching. I’m a great fan of most teachers,, and worked part-time in a UK school for ten years, helping with the childrens’ reading and poetry, until I retired. Cheers!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for reaching out, Joy. I blog about once every 7-10 days whenever I feel so moved to write about something. If I had to blog every Monday or something like that, it would become like a job. I find humor in most everything, but the best laughs come from the everyday aspects of life rather than listening to a standup comic.
I’ve read some of your posts before. Some of my favorite ones are from your days of running your bed and breakfast (or was it a hotel?). Even though I’ve been retired for five years, I still gravitate toward children, teachers, and literacy. One of the groups I belong to in retirement helps bring in 25 nationally known children’s authors to our area biennially. We fly them in, put them up in the best hotel in town for four nights, and bring them out to our local schools to talk to kids about writing. It’s quite a kick for me as I feel like I’m seeing future authors born in the kids’ eyes. Since I’m writing novels for middle grades now, it’s an excellent opportunity to learn. I’m the token male in the group of over 20 people, but there are worse things in life than hanging out with many dedicated ladies who are equally passionate about literacy.😊
I’ll Google Writers’ Ink and check your group out. My best to you and your family.
LikeLike
I’m one of the criminal in Facebook jail. I find it funny that I’ve offended someone with a post yet I couldn’t be told what post it was. All of my posts going back a long way have been removed. Fair enough, as I don’t aim to offend but most of the post are music ones. It tool me a while to find out that the posts had gone as I have never ben notified except when I tries to post a new one. I had a note come up on screen to say they could not accept it as people have complained the content is offensive. As you know, my music taste may leave a bit to be desired but I wouldn’t call it offensive. Also, if I can’t post it, how the hell do people read it and find the offence?
I think it’s been about 5 weeks now since I’ve been able to post anything. I did find a place to appeal the decision but they said they don’t deal with the problem in-house and it may be a while before the people dealing with the appeals get around to them because of Covid19/ (if ever). There’s no place to do it a second time though and nowhere to se if things are progressing. So, I could be on a life sentence.
The public’s delicate ears are safe from my music for the forseeable future. I don’t much like these striped pyjamas though.
Hugs
LikeLiked by 2 people
I feel your pain. How are we supposed to change if we don’t know what was deemed “wrong” in the first place? There is so much left to opinion as to what could be described as “offensive.” I seldom engage in any political discussion with anyone on Facebook because it turns into a giant waste of time. It’s not like we’re going to change anyone’s mind at this point anyway.
I’ve never been banned from Facebook, but I had a similar thing happen on a sports discussion board. I’m always respectful, and there was nothing even remotely controversial about what I said. I think it was a discussion of American football and some of the top quarterbacks. The next thing I knew, I was denied use. I tried to get someone to explain what I had done, but the problem with these huge companies is we can’t speak with a live person to get to the bottom of it all. I got a note back saying my privileges would resume in 30 days. They never did, and to this day, I still don’t know what happened. I’m 100% sure I did nothing wrong. I think that’s the part that bothers guys like you and me. We just want someone to give us a rational explanation.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Somebody sent me a message on Facebook, I didn’t get it until a month later. You can tell how often I’m on FB. I heard that a while back, someone complain about her principal on FB, you guessed it, she got fired. A friend of mine used to live and breathe on FB. She said she was on it every 20 minutes throughout the day, and she was. On one incident, she announced something, I responded to it, she went away and checked and came back to tell me some more.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I know people that constantly have Facebook open all day. I check in a few minutes per day, and that’s plenty for me. It’s hard to believe that someone would talk about their boss in such a public setting, but I don’t understand many things people tell the world.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Now lawyers, police, and any public services check people’s profiles on FB when they work on the cases. I don’t trust…
LikeLiked by 1 person
You lose many of your rights to privacy when you’re in the public eye. I have a few former students in law enforcement, but they rarely post anything. I’m sure they don’t want to put a lot of stuff about their families on their page like many people do.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re right about the privacy, Pete. When we first got married, hubby moved to my house because I didn’t want to move to Chino Hills with the long drive to work. He was active in his community. After he got settled in my community, he ran for the city counsel. The old guards gave him a hard time. One city counsel said he had been living in the city for 28 years.
I’m glad he didn’t win the election because he is a pretty private person, even though he has a simple life all his life.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I don’t think I have thick enough skin to run for public office like your husband did or become a school administrator like you. It doesn’t matter if you’re doing everything right. Someone will criticize you publicly.
LikeLike
You do better than I with FB. I think I overreacted to some people’s obsession and avoided it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I avoided it for a long time, but I finally gave in. I can see its usefulness, but it’s one of the first things I cut out of my day when I’m busy.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I have the FB tab along with all the other tabs open on my browser. But it’s the last tab I click.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is me, through and through! I resisted FaceBook until a friend said, “If you want to see pictures of your grandchildren, sign up for FaceBook.” She was right! That’s the end of social media for me. Don’t get me started on the TV remote! This was a fun post, Pete, with much truth.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m glad that I eventually got on board, but social media can be an awful time waster. FaceTime is another excellent use of technology that allows us to talk and see someone in real-time. We need to stay somewhat current to keep up with our families.
LikeLiked by 1 person
There has to be a balance. I get to keep in touch with far away relatives on FB, and that is a good thing. I still need tv remote-101. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was hesitant about social media too & I have my faves & not so faves — but it’s a way for writers to promote their work out in a way we never had before…
LikeLiked by 1 person
Whatever works. I haven’t heard too many people who have had too much success with Facebook, but I did manage to sell a few books with Facebook ads. I suppose it’s all about trying different methods and finding something that works.
LikeLiked by 1 person
my books are finished, so right now am just gathering supporters. do you have a post specifically about what you’ve learned about book marketing?
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m hardly an expert in that area. One of my strengths is I’m not afraid to try something new, even if it means getting out of my comfort zone a bit. I maintain that my years as a teacher taught me that sometimes you’ve got to be different to keep an audience engaged. We worry far too much about what others will think of us for attempting something. It’s better to try and fail than not giving yourself a chance by standing on the sidelines. For example, I think it’s great that you’re doing the whole podcast thing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
thank you for your kind words 🙂 your strength of being courageous about trying new things is a mighty one!
LikeLiked by 2 people
hmmm if you don’t, would make a great guest blog post wink wink
LikeLiked by 2 people
I’ll think some more about it this week and see if I can come up with an angle. Thanks for the opportunity.
LikeLiked by 2 people
again, at your leisure and nothing that would add substantially to your work load 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
A great and entertaining summarize on Social Media, Pete! I you want to use all of these Social Media offers you would need more than one life. Taking photos of the daily meal could force a faster divorce, with some couples. Lol
But its wonderful getting the opportunity to connect with others. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, and have a nice weekend, Pete! xx Michael
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m imagining a marriage counselor telling a couple, “It might be better if you quit taking pictures of each other’s scrambled eggs.”😊 Thanks so much for the reblog, Michael.
LikeLike
Reblogged this on OPENED HERE >> https:/BOOKS.ESLARN-NET.DE.
LikeLike
Thanks for your regular support, Sally. My audience has slowly grown over time, and I know that is primarily due to supportive bloggers like you.
LikeLike
I do love how Facebook can bring connections but I will never understand the on line arguing/nattering that carries on. Scroll on by I say.
LikeLike
Right! I’m so grateful to have reconnected with some people after more than 20 years. Scrolling is always a good choice. I don’t understand trolls who get on there to stir up trouble, Sue. Thanks for stopping by.
LikeLike
Pete a great piece, we like you, had resisted the likes of social media, getting out there. What we found and kind of fear is being left behind. Like it or not we need to keep up with the evolving technologies and I guess, and sorry to say, that includes selected forms of the social media. Other wise like my active parents, now nearing their 90s, have a devil of a job communicating with businesses and services (no internet, no email so no contact).
LikeLike
Yes, I agree with everything you say. My wife and I have had the exact conversation about not wanting to be behind in the dust. Our son doesn’t have children yet, but I think about wanting to stay current when we eventually have grandchildren and speak their language.
My dad passed a decade before my mom. He tried to stay up on things, and it seemed to be intuitive to him. None of it made sense to Mom. We got her a cell phone, and I tried to teach her how to use it. It still was hard for her, and she wouldn’t remember if I wasn’t around to remind her what to do. Good luck to you with your parents. You’ve probably done this already, but we set Mom’s bills up to autopay.
LikeLike
Twofacebook is the worst! I had good friends unfriend me for posting a political opinion -but could I do that to *them*??? They would have been so offended!
I keep thinking that everyone online needs a good lesson in etiquette. Then, as you noted, they all need to talk to people in real life instead of hide behind their phone.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Double standards exist everywhere on Facebook. I can get along with just about anyone. I may not understand someone’s political leanings or disagree with them, but I’ve never unfriended anyone because of it. I think the standard should still be the ability to converse with anyone without resorting to name-calling.
By the way, I like that term—Twofacebook.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ll copyright it some day. Yes, I feel the same as you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
🤣🤣 so true! First, I had to unfollow someone who did 6 food photos in a single day, but I had to figure out how to do it without her seeing that I unfollowed her! So MUCH FB etiquette. I also didn’t join for years, so when I did, my password was dawnofanewera, lol. I can share that now since I finally changed it. Seriously though, I love that FB’s biggest attraction for you is to check on old students. Of course you would want to know what careers they chose and where they landed. FB can be a useful resource. Thanks for a funny post Pete. 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
I have no regrets about joining. Several times I have been able to reconnect with former students who I would have never known about otherwise. From out of the blue, I’ll get friend requests from kids (now adults) who I taught more than 20 years ago. It makes me feel good to know I must have had some impact on them if they’re reaching out a couple of decades later.
I’ve got a blog project in the works about three sisters who I had the privilege of teaching. I’m just waiting for their mom to give me an update about her girls. I know some people might think it’s weird, but I don’t care. I get invested in my students’ lives, and I’m always going to error on the side of caring too much than too little. Mostly, I feel pride in their accomplishments and want them to know that.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I love that you get friend requests from your students from long ago. What a testament to you that they want you to know how they are doing in life. And it makes perfect sense to me that you, in turn, are interested in seeing/hearing their stories. You were a teacher, but a mentor to so many students too. It’s important to close the circle on how everything turned out.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is precisely how I feel; I know of many other teachers who feel the same. It is a responsibility and a privilege to have an opportunity to guide young minds. I feel a special connection to those who have gone on to become teachers themselves.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I have been on Facebook for 11 years. I need it to keep in touch with my family since I live so far away. I steer clear of anything political or controversial. You will love this, I asked my 11 year old great granddaughter if she was on Facebook and she said, “Of course not. I’m no Boomer.”
LikeLiked by 2 people
Haha! They do have a lot of fun at our expense. My line is, “please let me live long enough to see my son’s children make fun of him.” 🤣 Facebook serves a nice purpose. I’m not planning on giving it up anytime soon.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I’m totally with you on this, Pete. In fact, if I visit FB once a month, it’s a lot. Good for you for laughing at the nonsense, but I found it wearying and frequently mean-spirited. And I don’t know how to use the television remote either. Ha ha ha. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
I’m a regular visitor a few minutes most days. I guess it’s a bit like coming upon an accident. Part of me doesn’t want to look, but my curiosity tells me to take a peek. The kids would get quite a laugh if they saw the early remotes or, better yet, find out that there were things like rabbit ears to improve the reception on our three channels. 😊
LikeLiked by 2 people
And the reception was only good on two of them. Ha ha.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Good post. I’m on FB but not a fan though I do follow friends. You learn the strangest things about them on FB! Odd items that would be better told in person!
LikeLiked by 2 people
As I said to one other blogger, it’s a bit like going to confession. It must be somewhat cathartic, or perhaps they’re simply looking for attention.
LikeLiked by 2 people
It feels that way. Just don’t get it!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Entertaining post on social media Pete. You asked why some complain about fakebook, yet are still there. There are many authors like myself on FB who hate being there but feel compelled to stay there for the writing groups and a place to post. Personally, I await the day FB shuts down.
LikeLiked by 2 people
“Look, everyone—here’s my phony life!” Full credit if you coined the term “Fakebook,” as it is the perfect descriptor. 😊 Despite all of the nonsense, I’m sure I’ll still be there.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I wouldn’t bet against it Pete. And yes, I began referring to it as fakebook a few years ago. Catchy eh? 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Maybe you suggest that they change their name and see how that goes. Of course, they might be looking for an excuse to toss you back into Facebook jail. Give ’em hell, Debby!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lmao Pete. Let me tell you, if I haven’t been placed in FB jail a dozen times through the years, I haven’t once. Such a rebel! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
So funny, Pete – and I agree with everything you say. I don’t understand why people feel the need to argue about politics or write comments that go on and on and then descend into abuse. Toni x
LikeLiked by 1 person
The way people air their dirty laundry and talk to one another abusively on Facebook seems far different than what I see on the blogs I follow. Let’s hope it stays that way as I enjoy interacting with people on their blogs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
With you all the way Pete.. I don’t do Instagram, tiktok, or anything other than FB and Twitter with a bit of LinkedIn. I only access via my desktop and my phone is just for calls and texts.. I have gone out with people for a coffee or a meal and their phones have been dinging away with whatsapp messages etc and I just don’t understand this need to be connected the whole time. Facebook is useful to share blog posts and book promotions for the Cafe and to keep up with friends but I avoid getting embroiled in debates. But it is a great source for funnies.. x
LikeLiked by 2 people
Social media certainly has its uses and has made life easier in a lot of ways. The flip side is it has created this other set of unintended consequences. I think children are easily influenced by celebrities. Some of the messages they see are great, while others are self-centered and focus on no one else but themself. I don’t think that’s a great message for kids.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I agree Pete… xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
OK, Pete, I’m going to have to send you something you’ll REALLY connect with. Wait for it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, John. I guess there is humor that only us 60+ guys can genuinely appreciate.
LikeLike
Moving to a new town, we have new TV service with new remotes. We already spent too many nights trying to figure things out instead of watching a movie. Joy.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m happy for the two of you—retirement, a new home, and many exciting new places to visit. Someone needs to make a YouTube video of all of the mysterious buttons on the remote.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m sure that there are many many videos like that!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I can relate to many of your comments Pete, particularly as someone who used to get involved in sometimes damaging debates on Facebook. When I see racist tinged remarks or lack of empathy towards those in desperate situations I find it hard not to wade in. But handled badly you’re right, people just become more entrenched in their opinions.
I think most social media is okay as long as you don’t get addicted and start living life by them. And I definitely with you on the taking photo’s of food. And also, people here go to the pub and post a photo of a pint of lager or a glass of wine! Yep, I know what they look like!
Uh-o, now I’m starting to sound like a relic. Time to post a photo of my breakfast!
LikeLiked by 2 people
It’s a scary situation when people feel free to air their prejudices so openly, but the ones that bother me the most are the type that are disguised as a love for nationalism.
I’m getting ready to take the garbage out. Do I need to take a photo first?😊
LikeLike
There is a lot of drama on FB, but there’s also a lot of positivity. It’s a way to connect with friends and family (much like meeting them on the sidewalk for a quick chat), to meet new family members from far away (I have a brand new nephew and the pics show how adorable he is!), and mainly, it’s a way not to feel lonely.
I scroll past the uglies and search out the good stuff 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
That’s why I’m still there too, but I have to roll my eyes with those trying to create an image that everyone knows is not based in reality.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I don’t have Facebook anymore but the comment section of YouTube is where I find some of the best and most idiotic humour! It makes me laugh most of the time but yea, another rabbit hole that I get sucked into!
Don’t even get me started with the remote! How did we get to this amazing technological age in society yet we still need more than one remote to turn on the tv lol why can’t it just be “press power”??!? 😭😂 I don’t get it. Prepandemic when I used to babysit my nephew at my sisters, my biggest anxiety was knowing how to turn on her tv after he went to bed 😂🤣 I needed typed instructions or for her to just leave it on for me lol… And I’m not daft either! 😒
LikeLiked by 3 people
Well, now I don’t feel quite so dumb.🤣 My wife and I sometimes have this funny conversation about whether we should call our son to get help with something. We usually don’t for two reasons: #1. We know how busy he is. #2 Some of our questions are sure to be met with scorn. 🤣🤣🤣 It is a great mystery to him how we have functioned this long in the world. Mark my words, BB. One day you’ll be calling Charlotte for help. 😎
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh man, I can see us doing that now lol “Charlotte?? How do I make this work??”
It’s kind of sweet imaging you guys huddled together deciding whether or not this is something you should ask your son for help with 😂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was thinking we were about due for another Pete post. I’ve enjoyed the conversation!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I’ve gotten busy with a few other writing things lately. I’m breaking another “experts” rule as well. We’re supposed to be blogging on a regular schedule, but I only blog when I have the time and feel inspired to write about something. I like to write, but I don’t want a schedule, or it becomes more like a job. Thanks for all of the discussion, Liz.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your method of blogging when the spirit moves you is working very well. Blog posts for the sake of blog posts aren’t very engaging. Fie on the “experts”!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Crazy! I tend to stay in my own little Boomer world and ignore the unruly mess out there. 😎
LikeLiked by 3 people
I prefer my own little Boomer world as well. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Three cheers for us Boomers. Sometimes it pays to be a little ignorant about some of this stuff.
LikeLiked by 2 people
fun post, Pete. I have often wondered what is up with people doing the things you describe. are there people who really care to read about that sort of thing?
I have used Facebook as a way to reconnect with friends from college as well as other friends I don’t get to see very often. It’s a ncei way of staying up with what is going in their lives.
I use Twitter as a place to share my favorite stories from the Wall Street Journal with my students. That way, they are easy to retrieve.
and our current remote has only about eight buttons on it…
LikeLiked by 2 people
Perhaps they should develop a line of senior remotes for those of us who are technologically challenged. I imagine connecting with old friends via Facebook was the original intent, but the scammers have found a way to prey on that.
Do any of your students follow your blog?
LikeLiked by 1 person
scammers are everywhere.
there are a few student who follow my blog; I don’t really push it. but I do encourage them to create their own blog. A small handful of students have done so…
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very cool! They can suck up to the accounting professor that way. 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
money works better… 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your post gave me a smile, Pete, I’ve also noticed both the political and the FB complaint posts. I use FB to chat to friends and other writers, share my writing posts, and share pictures from Instagram. I am sure my pictures aren’t very exciting, but I share the kind of pictures I like to see i.e. flowers, insects, and places of interest, and things I cook and create from fondant.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Your fondant pieces from Sir Chocolate are remarkable because they are pieces of art. The kinds of things that strike me funny are when somebody takes a picture of their pancakes or something of that nature. I have reconnected with some students after more than 25 years, and that’s always fun for me. To see them with their own children now is sure to bring a smile to my face. There are plenty of positives, but some of the other stuff cracks me up.
LikeLiked by 3 people
I share your views, Pete, but the pros outweigh the cons for me as they do for you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hmmmmm…..seems that much of my enjoyment on the site goes against everything you rail about here…
LikeLiked by 2 people
Your burgers and other food creations are works of art—I’m referring to those people who take a photo of their fast food and other mundane things in their lives. For example, I love learning about Greece through your blog posts, but others photograph everyday activities like washing their car, going to the store, and trips to the dump.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I get it…sadly, too much of social media has turned everyone into a wannabe “star”…like all of the social media “Influencers” who make money because they have “followers” – that’s not a talent – everyone has the right to do whatever they want, but it’s a dark dark hole…I work in entertainment and have seen far too many on-air personalities struggle after the spotlight is turned off…so, to make a long long reply even longer, I’ll say this: you want to post your burrito, great! Tell us why it’s good, leave us with something interesting…if you post yourself eating a burrito to get “followers” and become a “social media star”….hmmmm…..
LikeLiked by 1 person
HA! Back in the day, I was on My Space for Musicians…just sayin’…
😎
And as for that remote? If my Ma were alive she’d show you the ropes! Yes, really, she always got those sorts of things.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I know what you mean about your mother. Some people have a much better intuitive sense of technology than others. It isn’t always related to age, but it does seem like people who have grown up in this era have an edge.
My Space—another thing that sailed right on by and became obsolete without any investment from me. Here’s the rub—much of technology is necessary for day-to-day living, and I don’t want to be ignorant and left in the dust.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Like you, Pete, I don’t do a lot on SM and wonder what’s so interesting about today’s burger, unless there is something interesting about it, like an exotic location or something. I don’t share a lot of personal stuff. I don’t in person, why should I to the world? Younger family members sometimes share ‘funny’ videos from TikTok, but the humour doesn’t always gel with me. I think I was born too soon for much of this stuff. As for the remote? I don’t have the remotest idea.
LikeLiked by 3 people
There are two kinds of sharing I don’t understand at all: 1. Sharing private matters so publicly. It’s like a public confession session.🤣 2. Writing about the mundane. I have friends I enjoy being around very much, yet they write about the most boring things like trips to the grocery store.
LikeLiked by 3 people
I agree with you on both those points, Pete.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I joined Facebook years ago to be part of a (now defunct) writers group. Then I started getting friend requests. Then I started publishing my work and “experts” said I needed a Facebook page. From there it grew. But the past couple of years, I’m posting less and less.
Like John Howell said, I’ve grown weary of the vitriol. I’ve snoozed umpteen people because of their political or “I’m a medical expert” posts – even unfriended some. There are days when I’d like to leave it behind forever but it is a good way to keep up with family and distant friends.
LikeLiked by 5 people
It’s too bad that we can’t weed out half of the nonsense. I scroll by much of it without a second thought, but why do we have to wade through mountains of trash to get to the good stuff?
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m in exactly the same place that you are, Joan. I joined Facebook to be part of a writers’ group and I put up an author’s page because “experts” said I had to. But I’m posting less and less–and I’d like to get out altogether!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I’m guessing a personal website becomes a necessity, but I’m not sure that author pages on Facebook help that much. I did the same thing as you, Liz, because someone who knows more than me about these things suggested it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m not ready to take down my FB author page just yet, but I expect that I will at some point.
LikeLiked by 1 person
My daughter signed me up when her brother had his first baby, pointing out that I would miss all the baby pictures – true. But I have never shared these on as it’s not my place and I never post pictures I take of the grandchildren. I have Facebook friends to do with writing and blogging and friends of friends and we don’ know who is looking. Of course Facebook is full of people who share everything or don’t realise who is reading. I saw a comment on a rare post by my son made by one of his A Level teachers and read on, thinking ‘wonder how Mr. So and so is’ and felt uncomfortable to read he was still having periods of black depression!
LikeLiked by 4 people
The things that people share about their personal lives are mind-blowing to me. Companies are going to take a hard look at that type of thing before hiring anyone. If it could come back to haunt you one day, then why put it out there for the world to see?
LikeLiked by 2 people
You are absolutely right about that, Pete. I subscribed to Higher Ed Today before I retired and there were notices of faculty and administrators being fired because of inflamatory/discriminatory/just plain stupid posts on social media.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank goodness some of the dumb stuff I did as a teenager was not captured on video. It feels like there should be a thirty-second delay where people have to reread what they’re putting out for the world to see.
LikeLiked by 2 people
When I was a teenager, we didn’t want our parents, teachers, law enforcement or any other authority figures to know what we were doing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m pretty sure that’s a universal thought for most teenagers. The less the parents know, the better. Unfortunately, we were teens once and remember that strategy.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Splashing photos all over social media seems at odds with keeping one’s parents out of one’s business.
LikeLike
Like you, I withstood it for ages, thinking it was just a place where young people went to organise orgies. I was recommended to it by a friend at work just before I retired, as a way of keeping in touch, and it has been great for that. The rubbish on there I just ignore, life is too short! But I hardly use Twitter these days: it has become an unpleasant place. A good post, Pete 👍
LikeLiked by 5 people
I have a Twitter account, but that is another thing I don’t understand. Having a legion of followers seems ridiculous when a celebrity has nothing of real substance to say.
LikeLiked by 3 people
I hardly use mine nowadays, just as another place to promote the blog. Most of the social media are as you describe: vacuous nonsense provided by airheads, for airheads.
LikeLiked by 2 people
It makes one wonder what exactly is being followed.
LikeLiked by 1 person
All I know is if I click on a product because I’m curious about it, an advertisement for that exact product almost always shows up later in the day on Facebook.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Which is why I use Duck Duck Go for my search engine, an ad blocker extension on my browser, and a Facebook ad blocker as well.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I need to look into that.
LikeLiked by 2 people
My mother was the one who insisted I use it.
LikeLike
Facebook, for me, quickly became just a place to put my poetry for anyone who may be interested. Out side of that, I choose to keep tabs on friends and family the old-fashioned way, I simply spend time with them. Short of finding lost pets, friends, or family, I am not sure it holds much true value. As for the remote, that is how I learned Spanish. I hit the Spanish language button and have not figured out how to turn it off…..😂
LikeLiked by 6 people
What a novel concept—talk to a person right in front of us. One of my regular rants is watching people sitting together, but they’re so engaged in their phones that they aren’t interacting with those who are right there.
The Spanish learning channel. 🤣
LikeLiked by 4 people
There was a photography exhibit a few years back with people in the posture of being absorbed with their phones–only the phones weren’t there. The images were hauntingly lonely, even heartbreaking.
LikeLiked by 2 people
It is such a sad truth that people don’t have as many regular conversations now. Phones are great, but people are so attached to them that they don’t know how to act when their phone is not around.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I find that comical as well. Thanks Pete!
LikeLiked by 1 person
We oldies must find fun where we can, Pete…
LikeLiked by 4 people
So true. I do like the photos of family and friends. We just have to scroll past all of the nonsense to get there.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yes, and why is there so much of it?
LikeLiked by 2 people
yes, i can certainly identify with this. i use facebook to keep in touch with distant family/friends at times, see how they’re doing, connect to people with similar interests such as british history, and i do like when it sends memory pics from past posts. other than that, i don’t get too into it. now for the remote, you know i’ve written about this beast and like you, i find myself pushing the wrong button and spending lots of time trying to correct what i’ve done…)
LikeLiked by 3 people
I’m not railing on Facebook, but like other “hobbies,” it has an addictive nature. It’s one of the first things I give up if I’ve got a busy day.
Yes, I think we’ve discussed remotes before. Some comedian probably has this in their stand-up comedy act already, but they would have a great time poking fun at guys like me. 🤣
LikeLiked by 2 people
i’m so with you on all of that –
LikeLiked by 2 people
I’m from the generation where my father controlled the remote – a garden cane with which he could change channels from his chair. And instruction manuels- how many times did I ask my kids if they’d read it when they couldn’t make something work to receive “that look” – a mix of incredulity and sadness. Mind you I wouldn’t be without self help videos on YouTube. There seems to be an infinite number of people who all seem to live in Delhi showing me how to change my car key fob battery or unplugging the cat from the electronic catflap…
LikeLiked by 4 people
I’m certainly not an “anti-tech guy,” but there is such a thing as having too many functions or information. Most young people have such an intuitive nature about technology that I know they can solve most of my problems in a matter of seconds, but I’m stubborn and prideful enough not to go asking for help unless I’m really stuck. I love that my phone tells me how to get somewhere, yet I miss planning out the best route.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Do you remember the AAA triptiks to plan for a long car trip?
LikeLiked by 3 people
I remember that I loved to teach a lesson on mapping to my upper elementary students. They had to plan a trip somewhere and do the math to calculate how much fuel they would need. Very practical stuff that is now mostly obsolete.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I would say that the ability to calculate how much fuel is needed for a trip and how much it will cost isn’t obsolete.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Ahhhh FB…I have cut back as it was getting silly with all the opinions from FB scientists and doctors and the ads are getting too much…Pop on every day to thank people who share my blog the same with Twitter…Snap chat is for the kids I think…haven’t tried it…But I could now quite happily live without it although FT ids good for me my son calls me on that…Have a lovely week, Pete 🙂 x
LikeLiked by 4 people
My line is I hope I live long enough to see my son turn into a square. 🤣 I think I could give it all up fairly quickly if it ever comes to that. I get frustrated with the amount of misinformation I read masquerading as truth.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Absolutely, Pete ..the scary thing is it is not just FB anymore 🙂 x
LikeLiked by 2 people
I use an ad blocker on Facebook. Now I’m inundated with ads to buy Facebook ads.
LikeLiked by 3 people
We just can’t win it seems they are determined to bombard us any way they can..
LikeLiked by 3 people
I’m hoping they will bombard themselves out of existence.
LikeLiked by 3 people
No remote (or TV) for me, ever since I was a child in my parents’ home. It’s why I never watched TV during house sits where such a machine was present. I would never be able to figure out so many remotes to make everything work. That being said, our new camper comes with a real TV and two TV remotes. They have been untouched so far. The remote that comes for the jacks (to lift and lower the camper) do come in handy, so I have learned to operate that one. 🙂
I totally agree with all your Facebook statements (especially the food photography) but I do like to get the last word! I have no clue what Snapchat is, so I think you are ahead of the game…
LikeLiked by 3 people
I seldom watch television. I just would rather keep my mind more engaged. Have you hit the road yet, Liesbet?
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yes! We left on Friday, stopped by a couple of friends over the weekend and are now meandering west through New York. Today is the second day of non-stop rain – good to catch up on rest; not good for letting the dog out and having our tiny house dirty, wet, and damp… Aaaah, to be back on the road. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
I know you’re in your happy place again. I definitely want to know how the new vehicle works out—it’s first real test. Safe travels and many great adventures!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I joined Facebook to see pics of the grandkids but their parents quickly moved to something else. I do some sharing though because my favourite thing is the memories that they show me. I find it a great way to record special events or beautiful days then have them turn up again in the future. Since my memory is terrible these days it helps the cause.
LikeLiked by 3 people
It certainly has its uses. Anything that helps the memory is alright in my book.
LikeLiked by 2 people
You are right about all of the silly things on Facebook. Still I feel badly about not posting more. I don’t see much of my old friends these days and Facebook is a way to keep in touch. (Of course, so is a phone.) I use Facebook messenger the most and even make phone calls with it. I’m sure that Facebook records every post, photo and phone call and analyzes the data to see how much money it can make from my info. I wonder what devious uses for the data fb is working on.
LikeLiked by 4 people
So many of the scams seem to come through Messenger. Before I knew anything, I’d answer those messages on Messenger asking me how I was.🤣 It’s a shame that these things that have their uses get polluted by others.
LikeLiked by 3 people
I have fun pretending to play along with the scammers.😄
LikeLiked by 2 people
It took me a while to overcome the politeness chip implanted in me as a child and stop answering those “how are you” messages on Messenger and Twitter Direct Messages.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I have a new line when the telemarketers call that I’ve been trying out lately. After they begin, I say, “Gosh, this is so interesting, but I have to go. Could you give me your home phone number, and we can pick up with this later?”🤣 I’m easily amused.
LikeLiked by 3 people
That’s hilarious! What kind of responses do you get?
LikeLiked by 2 people
Usually, a lot of silence because they don’t know me well enough to know that I’m joking around.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I see . . .
LikeLiked by 2 people
I never learned how to operate a remote, so there is that. I don’t do Facebook as a routine. I just can’t stand the vitriol. Twitter is my choice but never ever go to the trending items. They are all so stupid I can’t believe real humans engage in the kinds of communications you see there. Good post, Pete.
LikeLiked by 6 people
I will inadvertently brush some button on my remote and spend the next fifteen minutes figuring out how to get back to where I was. I’m a simple creature that only needs to change the channel or volume.
LikeLiked by 4 people
Me too. 😁 It is nice not to be forced to leave the couch.
LikeLiked by 2 people