Community or Nah?

  I think it happened when we went from "friends" to "followers". I'm not saying everything was perfect before that.. but therein lies a disconnect that you cannot deny. Language is important. Bound by words to express thoughts, ideas, and feelings, even someone with limited vocabulary understands that words hold weight; and if you are particular about the point you are attempting to get across you must use verbiage that speaks with you and for you. When social media took us from sending friend requests to requesting "follow backs" (follow for follow?) a new hierarchy was created. All of a sudden how many people "followed" you was a matter of importance.

Now before you start taking my word as law and think too critically about the thoughts and ideas I am sharing, know that I am just a high school graduate. I am a baby in this game of Life. I am a black woman in and from the United States of America and I too am flawed, learning, growing, and expanding every day. Take my opinion lightly. Integrate what resonates and stow away what you may be able to put to use later. I am a proud student of life and relationships, with a deep internal desire for the progression and safety of all. It is the light that guides me, and you are an integral part of that progression. I hope you feel free and safe to disagree, to challenge, even debate me (if you think you're up for it).

 Now, back to the original think piece.

 Remember a time when social media was truly a social place? It was FILLED with personality. It reflected your closest friends. It was like instant messenger.. but permanent. If you were smart and patient, you learned to code. That could really let your personality shine. Yes, there were always those that managed to overshare, but they were like that in real life so.. no big deal. We spent marginal amounts of time online because the internet was much slower, far less convenient, and if you were talking to strangers on the internet.. Well.. they were probably VERY strange. We pirated and shared music. Then we pirated and shared photos and music. Then we TOOK pictures and MADE music. Then video. You would think that was all progression. But ONLY if you aren't looking around you.

  The influx and overload of sharing, liking, and perfecting has made us numb to the communities in which we live. As a collective we're quite insensitive to the nuances and beautiful imperfection of being human. It's contributed to comparison culture and created a conveyor belt of "trends". It's the perfect vehicle to compare our complex and detailed lives to the highlight reel of a stranger's life. To know your neighbors is a blessing and a privilege that many are no longer offered. Yes, it is most easy to double tap a post. But are you as likely to pause your day to compliment a stranger? Do you think that is enough of a cosmic boom to change the course of their day AND yours?

 I have to say.. being on both the receiving and giving end of these types of interactions.. there are few feelings as good as acknowledgement. Being seen is being given the opportunity to take large part in a loving interaction without demand or request. I truly believe that is a large part of what our community is currently missing. In a weird time when money is funny, we should invest in what is free. Love. Support. Acceptance. Acknowledgement.

I'm not saying you have to be 'happy go lucky' and put on your Captain Save-a-Ho cape every time you leave the house. I don't expect you to always have the mental capacity or desire to interact with people out in the world. These are simply the seeds that I think if we begin to sow with intention and sincerity, could reshape the world into a place where our children, nieces, and nephews will feel safe and connected. Tribes are not some magical formations of the perfect people with perfectly suited personalities. Tribes are conglomerations, formed by people from all walks of life with distinct purpose and contributions that always default to the betterment of the people.

I think we deserve a change that is not forced upon us by outside sources. I believe we deserve change that is purposeful and beneficial. I believe we deserve change that is formed by us instead. Social Media as it has matured could be an amazing vehicle for connecting and uniting us, when used mindfully and responsibly. It is absolutely what brought us together, here and now. You'll be amazed at the changes you see in the world when you embody the change you wish to see in the world. I've seen the future. Trust me, It's bright.

  Signed,

     DeYonna. Certified Lover Girl.