 |
| "I prefer face-to-face interactions or hand written sentiments" - Paul Blart, Mall Cop (2009) |
When communicating something of importance to anybody, it would do us well to adopt the views of Paul Blart (Kevin James), the protagonist of the comedy Mall Cop. When asked if he owned a mobile phone, Paul Blart responds by saying:
"I prefer face-to-face interactions or hand written sentiments."
This is my new motto. After a few bad text, email, and facebook experiences, I have decided not to engage in e-conversations if the topic is of a sensitive nature and/or if the exchange begins to go south. There is a place for electronic media in our lives today, but it should not replace face-to-face meetings.
When dealing with any sensitive issues or confronting a wayward brother or sister, avoid using text, email, or facebook. If a face-to-face meeting is possible, we should choose this method of interaction first. If meeting face-to-face is not possible, try a phone call. Nowadays everyone has access to a telephone or mobile phone; but still, there are some folks who don't feel comfortable addressing sensitive issues over the phone. As an alternative to the phone call, or if the phone call is not possible, try the good old fashioned 'hand written' (or typed) personal letter. Letters are actually a very Jewish way of communicating important information, like halakha. Consider the Apostle Paul and his method of communicating to Churches that were where many miles away. If we can't meet in person or make a phone call, a personal letter is the next best thing.
As electronic media becomes more and more a part of our daily lives, we cannot neglect our need for personal interaction. Don't mistake emails for conversations. Don't mistake facebook for your community. Don't hide behind your computer screen. Get out and socialize the old fashioned way. Spend time in person with a family member or a friend; meet for coffee, go for a walk. Spending time together is what makes the memories that build relationships. We can have thousands of facebook friends and ‘zero’ relationships. Facebook is fun, but it should not replace the personal interaction that is necessary in building relationships and community. Besides, there is no real accountability in a long distance facebook friend. There may be some opportunities to ‘plant seeds’ online, but true discipleship is best done in person, side-by-side. When Messiah said, “in the world” I don’t think He was talking about facebook.
Related Links:
Facebook Etiquette: 10 Rules for Better Socializing
PC World Magazine
How Not to Be Hated on Facebook: 10 More Rules
Time Magazine
Essential Facebook Etiquette: 10 Dos And Don’ts
Hongkiat, online tips for designers and bloggers.
Top 10 Facebook Etiquette Rules
Your Tango, a digital media company dedicated to love and relationships.
Email and texting etiquette
Stephen Crippen, Seattle based Therapist
~
No comments:
Post a Comment