I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: life is brief, and I’ve only got so many cares to spare. I’ve stopped stressing over trivial matters like my kids’ outfits and whether my favorite leggings are deemed “age-appropriate.” If you ask me about my non-Pinterest-worthy home décor, I’ll just give you an IDGAF shrug. I’ve also managed to cut out most of the nonsense in my life, including the online variety, with one exception: Facebook.
Despite the fact that Facebook is often a minefield of nonsense so overwhelming I might as well don a hazmat suit before logging in, I just can’t seem to let go.
There are days when even a few minutes on Facebook leaves me feeling like I need a shower or a stiff drink—or both. I scroll past the controversial articles and fake news, trying to ignore when friends “like” posts from groups like the NRA or share sentiments that make me cringe. I play this daily game of leaving Facebook groups that peddle overpriced leggings or essential oils that promise to turn back time, only to get re-added moments later.
Leave group. Get notified that I’ve been added back. Leave again. Repeat.
And let’s not even get started on the humblebrags that make me gag and the vague posts about “exciting news” or “send prayers” without any context.
Then there’s the alarming issue of fake news, which makes me question: What on earth is going on? Luckily, there’s the magical “unfriend” or “unfollow” button. Poof! The nonsense disappears.
If some sanctimonious mom starts a post with “I don’t mean to judge but…” and then proceeds to criticize another mom for feeding her kids cheese puffs at the movies? Bye, Felicia. And those who share sexist, racist, or homophobic “jokes”? Blocked. Honestly, how were we even friends to begin with?
Every so often, a digital cleanse feels necessary to rid myself of the negativity. Yet, I simply can’t quit Facebook. Your memes crack me up, your secret groups offer endless procrastination, and I’ve made friends from around the globe—even if I’ve never heard their voices.
Without Facebook, how would I see those painfully cute holiday snapshots or the adorable cat videos? How would I know that you were up all night with a sick toddler, which strangely reassures me about my late-night struggles with a snoring spouse? And where would I learn about the latest trends, like that new Paleo diet or even take a quiz to prove my ’80s pop culture expertise? (100%, thankyouverymuch!)
Let’s get real: the world can often feel overwhelmingly dark. The news is a litany of disasters, bills seem to multiply on my kitchen counter, and my dogs just made another mess in the living room. If it weren’t for the uplifting news of a college friend’s promotion or the hilariously off-key video of a cousin’s daughter’s piano recital, I might lose all hope for humanity.
In short, Facebook helps keep my sanity intact. It keeps me in the loop and prevents me from becoming that out-of-touch suburban mom. When my son discovers a new song by his favorite band, I can share it on Facebook and appear like the cool mom who’s in tune with the indie scene. If I’m puzzled about what a Hatchimal is, Facebook will not only enlighten me but also let me know I missed the boat on that trend.
If I’m seeking advice on discipline methods, Facebook is there to provide me with an overwhelming array of options—more than I could ever need.
And let’s not forget the sheer joy of distraction that Facebook offers. When my kids are battling it out with plastic swords, my husband calls to say he’s running late, and we’re out of chocolate and wine, I don’t need a bubble bath; a little mindless scrolling on Facebook does the trick.
So, as I continue to eliminate the nonsense and drama from my life, Facebook remains. Because when all else fails, there are always cat videos. And if you’re looking for more insights, you can check out this engaging piece from one of our other blog posts on the topic here.
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In summary, while I may be cutting out the negative influences in my life, Facebook isn’t going anywhere. It’s a source of laughter, information, and connection that I just can’t part with.