My last post regarding Internet self-disclosure seemed to be quite enjoyable by many of my friends so I thought I'd follow up with some more insights regarding the cybernetic era our generation is often so succumbed by.
I'd first like to start by making a similar disclaimer like my last article, that being, that I am sometimes just as guilty as those individuals to which the following blog denotes. And perhaps writing about it and publishing my insights might be an effort to help others as my reflections on the matter have also helped me.
So, first things first. What the HELL ever happened to sending genuine notes and thank you letters via snail mail?! I'm not saying it doesn't exist at all anymore, but the ratio of Facebook notes/letters to handwritten cards is oddly skewed.
"I know I made an effort to comment on everyone's posts, but in case I missed anyone, thank you everyone for the birthday wishes! It meant so much."
"Thank you to everyone who came out to my party as well as to those who sent warm wishes. It's great to know how many friends I have!"
The aforementioned posts are quotes we might often see while scrolling the newsfeed in regards to special events like birthdays, housewarming parties, showers, condolences, etc.
While it is convenient and very easy to type up a quick note for a bajillion eyes to see, I can't help but think everything genuine about it is completely lost.
Don't get me wrong. I've done it too. It's not like we are going to write individual letters to the range of 100 to 1,000 friends who found it necessary to post happy birthday on our timelines. That'd be ridiculous!
But let's get to the bigger picture here. First of all, I'm willing to bet that AT LEAST half of those birthday posts come from people you barely know or don't even talk to anymore. For instance, I've had people post on my timeline who didn't even make an effort to talk to me, let alone LIKE me, in high school but suddenly their happy birthday post on my timeline apparently suggests otherwise. Um, no thanks. At least call or send me a text for Christ's sake.
Now, I know Facebook is a way to stay in touch with people who may have moved away or who you may have grown out of consistent touch with, so a nice gesture here and there on Facebook is okay. That's a different story.
But what about something bigger? Say... a wedding shower. Baby shower. Funeral. Housewarming party.
If you're planning on sending a mass thank you note regarding the attendees/guests of your event, or the people who gave and sent condolences for a tragic loss, then think again. It is not exactly sincere, genuine, or even smart in my opinion.
Take the time to write a nice letter, seal 'er up in the envelope, slap on a stamp, and send 'er on its way. I know we're all busy, but the time it takes to hand-write a letter means so much more than the few seconds it takes to type up a mass Facebook post. On the other hand, I know stationary expenses can add up, so if it's an issue, pick up the phone and have a nice little chat!
Now, if you want to write up a mass Facebook or twitter post and respond individually to the individuals who wrote on your timeline IN ADDITION to a handwritten letter, then by all means, knock yourself out.
So before you tackle your long list of thank you's, consider Facebook being a SECONDARY message medium rather than the PRIMARY source. You'll more than likely earn a lot more respect from just about anyone who cares to carry on the traditions of our forefathers.
Stay classy, my friends.
~Elizabeth
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