I am a Facebook user myself. It is a great way to keep abreast of what’s happening with my friends and family all over the globe. We are all very careful about what we post.
There are others, however, that use face book as a tell all, kind of therapist of sorts. Most of us are familiar with the saying: Everyone has a story. The reality is that not everyone has a voice, or a forum in which their story can be heard. Hence, the inappropriate comments on Face Book. It provides a space for everyone to be heard, but some things are better left unsaid.
I do not believe that Facebook is a forum in which you should divulge your very private thoughts, pains, trials, and agonies. For that I would suggest that one purchase a diary. I would also suggest that you work on relationships with those around you, so that you will be heard and understood by those who love you.
On a daily basis, there are news stories about people getting fired, kicked out of school, and sued because of things posted on Facebook. I also have heard of young people being bullied on Facebook. Surely, this is not what Facebook creators had in mind.
I believe that there is the perception that when we sit in private and post comments, they are going to remain private. In reality, they are seen in every corner of the world, and they never go away. Your name is forever linked with those inappropriate comments.
They will be forever seen by potential employers, college admissions advisors, and other people of importance who are deciding about your future. Even if Facebook is extinct gone forever, Google will still have those comments cached, and linked to your name. Facebook is a great tool for networking, and keeping in touch with friends, and perhaps promoting a good cause.
It is important to remember that once you have posted your comments, they are out there forever, even if you delete them. Take a breath before you post. Also, consider that privacy settings on Facebook only apply to Facebook. If your name is typed into a search engine, it will pull up your comments.
Facebook is a great tool, but use with care, discretion, and common sense.
