Last month, I watched a Netflix documentary, “The Social Dilemma”. It sounded the alarm of the threats of social networking from affecting self-image to predictions of civil anarchy. While it seems to be an exaggeration, there are some underlying food for thought that can be gleaned from it. Young people are shown being influenced by the number of likes and views on their posts. There is an obsession as well on various filters/edits to enhance one’s looks. Individuals with opposing views are bickering left and right. The proliferation of fake news causing further damage, confusion and heightened emotions. Artificial intelligence (AI) was featured here as working its algorithm to guarantee continuous user engagement. It studies our browsing patterns and behaviours to ensure we are glued to our electronic devices.
With our time and attention consumed by social media as content providers/advertisers doing their best to keep us engaged, we have forgotten the joys of building in person relationships. At the dinner table, there is the danger of less meaningful conversations since each one is focused on his/her own digital space. We missed calling our loved ones to rejoice on joyous news/occasions. We missed discussing one on one if there are any misunderstandings. We missed doing personal visits (even at the house’s doorstep given the Covid restrictions) to those who need our presence. I am guilty of this.
Even worse, we tend to be careless with what we post, what we comment and what we share without validating the facts. Sadly at times, we can be part of the problem instead of the solution. Somehow, it is easier to hide from our aliases/handles/pseudonyms. Without seeing our “audience”, the fear of facing the consequences of our actions seem far less. I am guilty of this as well.
United States is just one example of a deep divide much more evident in their recent elections. As we have witnessed, it has been a close race between President Donald Trump and President-Elect Joe Biden. Much has been said by supporters of both candidates. It happens across the globe too, even in my birth country, Philippines, where there is a huge gap between supporters of President Rodrigo Duterte and those against him. Not only in the world of politics but even among our social network, we see polarizing views and comments on various subjects. The arguments and exchanges unfortunately crossing the boundaries of respect and civility. Why did it come to this? Why are families and friends’ relationships broken because of different viewpoints? Can we be opponents but not enemies? Can we agree to disagree? Can we bring back respect to each other’s opinions?
Last Saturday evening, when I first heard Joe Biden’s speech, it was a breath of fresh air. His speech was unifying, calming and diplomatic. I felt like there is a bit of normalcy back in the world. I don’t discredit President Donald Trump – he has put forward policies that have helped further Christian causes and values. I applaud him for that. On the other hand, his divisive tone, cutting words, alternative facts and derisive actions do not sit well with me.
Words matter. Truth matters. I pray that the next time you and I respond in writing or speech, let’s think twice. Let’s value our relationships and friendships. If there are misunderstandings, let’s listen and know where each one is coming from. Let’s talk to each other once again.
May the Lord grant us the power to forgive, to control our emotions, to sow peace instead of division, to be ambassadors of His truth - delivered in love.
Proverbs 12:18
“There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
Proverbs 15:1
“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Romans 12:17-18
“Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far at it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”
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