On Thursday I had met with several friends at a local restaurant. One of the conversations we were having was about Facebook. I was asked if I was on Facebook and said yes but that I don’t go into often or do much with it. So some friends from that group added me on their friends list.

Over the weekend, realizing that they might do this, I went into Facebook to clear up all requests etc. Sure enough, they had added me. I accepted their invitation and moved on about my business since I had so many other things to catch up on.

Sunday evening I get an indication in my email that a new message was waiting for me on Facebook. The message had come from one of my newly added friends. It was simple enough “you could have at least said hello but since you didn’t I will – HELLO”.

It was obvious that I had hurt this friend’s feelings in some way. She didn’t do anything wrong she just wanted to keep in touch and opened a new method to do so. I am glad that our friendship is strong enough that she actually went in and said something about it without fear of reprisal.

I am not a big fan of socializing. If anything, I would prefer to be on a deserted island by myself. But this particular person is an outgoing type and deserved better. For many years I have been telling people that no matter who you meet, even if it is just for a quick second on the street, a simple hello can just someone’s life.

It took this weekend’s event to make me realize that a social network like Facebook is no different then any other setting, even meeting someone on the street. The courtesies we extend in person should be extended in these type of networks as well. Yes, we are virtual in Facebook space, but the feelings and reactions of the people are real.

If we are rude on the street by ignoring people who talk to us, what it the world would make anyone think we are not rude by ignoring people in cyber space. Obviously my apologies went out to my friend, a little late. Some forethought on my part would have been better.

In our daily lives we all do these types of things. We do them so much we probably don’t even recognize how rude we really are. We constantly walk down the street, strangers say hello and we ignore them. So, based on my experience this weekend, I have a challenge for all readers here. The next time someone says hello, answer back.

Communication is the key. If we don’t talk to each other we will lead very lonely lives. Our stress levels will only increase as we unintentionally deny ourselves the pleasure of other people’s company. Say hi to your families and friends, see how they are doing, and pass along your well wishes. You will be remembered as caring, loving person rather then a grumpy old fuddy-duddy.

Yours in Peace
Jim Kearney
www.LibertarianViewpoint.com