Curse Of Facebook

August 1, 2009
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Even though I logged into Facebook regularly, I very rarely posted a status update (because I would be having status like “Told Qi to stop pinching her sister”, “Changing Baby De’s diapers” and other mundane things - and who would want to read that!).

But it’s cool to see friends who enjoy posting theirs and keep friends informed. And it’s fun to read updates such as :

K** : Just had a great fellowship with awesome friends

Or, L* : Is going to Edmonton…tomorrow

Or, J** : Home alone with a cuppa& some books…bliss

But there are times when you get updates that to me, are very private and should not be shared so openly.

Sure, I can understand why anyone finds it so easy to post update like “I cannot believe I married this person”, when one can’t find any place or anyone to vent their feelings to. Because when you are angry, you really don’t care where or how you express your feelings.

The problem is when not only the person meant in the post can see this line - but the whole friends’ list - close friends, colleagues and even acquaintances. Worse, only-by-name acquaintances (since for many, simply knowing each other’s name is enough to be added into their friends’ list.

I wonder if they realised how awkward this is for friends to read and react. For me, the question is usually, should I comment to show my concern - or ignore this posting but be seen as an uncaring friend. It’s a dilemma for the readers too. It’s quite as bad as someone trying to sell insurance online in Facebook and expect friends’ to respond.

Still, I guess when one is desperate, there really is no better way to jolt the intended person into action. Sort of a “Deal with me before I tell the whole world!” kind of ultimatum.

And in a way, if one could thickened one’s face from the inquiring questions from other friends, it can be worthwhile to post private message this way if it gets the intended person to respond, don’t you agree?

Posted in Thoughts