Today we are living with instant messaging in which many people document their every thought \u2013 almost in real time \u2013 on various social media platforms. There is no time to reflect on the impact of their words on the unsuspecting world. When they are feeling angry or hurt, social media is ready 24 hours a day to pass along the pain-filled sentiments to everyone. This is already generating unprecedented levels of depression and self-harming behavior among teenagers \u2013 both boys and girls. I have witnessed the potential for serious damage with our own grandchildren.<\/p>\n
When I was a child \u2013 light years ago \u2013 we had a childhood chant: \u201cSticks and stones may break my bones, but words shall never hurt me!\u201d It was intended to increase resiliency and avoid physical retaliation, but, sadly, it is simply not true. Hurtful words \u2013 uttered in person or via social media \u2013 can leave deep wounds long after physical scars might have healed. By way of response to this reality, our son and his wife have not only restricted the hours that social media is available in their home but also denied their 15-year-old son his own mobile phone \u2013 over considerable protestations!<\/p>\n
I readily admit that the social media explosion has produced remarkable benefits. We are able to communicate with friends and family in ways that we never imagined. Angela serves as our family social media queen and stays in regular contact with our children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and our rapidly growing global extended family. She passes along photographs, family news, and prayer needs, and because of her good efforts, we have stayed well connected throughout the pandemic lock down. We have even located high school friends with whom we had lost contact. I am also able to learn a great deal about the various clergy and churches that I now serve as interim bishop, because I can read through their websites and social media posts. But there is a dark side to all of this.<\/p>\n
Read it all<\/a>.<\/p>\n Pittsburgh ad clerum on anti-social mediahttps:\/\/t.co\/E4i5UnVUZ5<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/0pHfFOTPF5<\/a><\/p>\n — Anglican Ink (@anglicanink) July 21, 2021<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n \n