So long, facebook...

I decided it was time for a separation. Some have asked, why? Well, there are so many reasons, really. It comes down to the heart. My heart. For the last few years, I suppose there has always been a part of me (deep down), that felt uneasy about the whole concept of facebook and "social networking."

Truth be told, I'm a pretty old-fashioned person. I don't text or have any plans to in the near future. I understand the need and convenience for technology but I prefer a simpler, slower time- where having real relationships with a few people meant so much more than "connecting" with hundreds. I know, I'm sounding "old skool," emphasis on the "old". :)

Sure, I tried to share my faith, spread some love, and encourage others to do the same but ultimately, I came to the conclusion that most people who use facebook (including me), were screaming, "LOOK AT ME!" "LOOK AT WHAT I'M DOING!" "LOOK AT MY CUTE KIDS!" "LOOK AT MY AWESOME FAMILY!" "LOOK WHAT I'M READING, EATING OR MAKING!" "LOOK WHERE I'M GOING AND WHO I'M THERE WITH." In other words, facebook feeds our narcissistic society and no matter how strong and unaffected I think I am, I'm only human. I too, have a need for approval and affirmation. And much like the way I monitor my intake of TV and other forms of media, I'm simply choosing to opt out and guard myself in this area as well.

The aspect of voyeurism- OK, so maybe some of you don't have a need for the world's approval like I do, then perhaps it's the pure voyeuristic side of facebook that keeps you logging on. In some ways, it's like a reality show (which I can't stand). Sadly, in our culture today, we get our kicks from watching other people make fools of themselves. We're also very quick to judge others. Oh, okay... maybe that's just me?

I admit it- facebook was fun. There were some positives. I enjoyed looking at people's pictures and reconnecting with old friends. It also allowed me to stay in touch with family members from around the world. I even talked myself into thinking (and saying), "With facebook, I can now "talk" to my friends everyday and stay in touch throughout the busy week."

There were times when I debated logging off for good but then I would say, "Maybe I could be an encouragement to others and spread some good into the world?" I hope in some small way, I did do that.

Long story short- I was doing my bible study this week and I began to feel convicted. We're studying James and it specifically addressed the topics of submission, resistance, judging, boasting and obedience. I began to pray and asked God to give me wisdom in this area. Then I read an article by Jim Daly re: Howard Stern's Admission. In the interview (given to Rolling Stone magazine), Stern admitted to being addicted to the approval of other people. Furthermore, Daly writes about a chapter in Dr. Tim Keller’s book, Counterfeit Gods. Keller reflected on this rising culture of competition, as well as our chronic and seemingly insatiable appetite for approval and applause. In my opinion, facebook is certainly the perfect breeding ground for just that.

It not only takes time and focus away from God (and from our families) but it also provides a medium for that innate desire in all of us- to be known, heard, acknowledged and maybe, even loved. However, in our desires for worldly "fame" and being "liked," it inevitably takes the spotlight off God and puts it on ME instead. By following every one's status updates, negative influences like discontent, materialism, comparison, and judgment slowly and unknowingly seep into our lives and become the norm.

Here's what it came down to for me...

I'm not going to pretend anymore that I'm strong enough to teeter-totter with one foot in the world and one foot out. My God is my only master and my goal in life is to serve Him wholeheartedly. My desire is to think less about myself and more about my Lord and Savior. If left to my own, life would be all about me- a path I've already been down before. For me, facebook gave me a sense of false security as well as a desire for fame and approval. I honestly believe that's the catch. The lure that keeps everyone coming back for more. Jesus shed His blood on the cross so that I could be free from any bondage. God says His grace is sufficient and I am worthy and loved because I am His. To prove it, He sent His holy and blameless Son to die for me. Therefore, my worth, contentment and devotion lies in Christ alone. Matthew 6:24 says,
"No one can serve two masters."

Come on? Do I honestly think I'll be missing out on something just because I'm not on facebook? Noooooo! In fact, I know God has a full and abundant life planned for me, if only I would change my focus and get on board.

I do, however, hope to continue to blog and write. In these last few months, there have been various topics I've been wanting to write about but due to lack of time, I just can't seem to get my thoughts together. Ultimately, my reflections and photos are for my family. This blog serves as a small glimpse and memory of our lives, in which friends and family are welcome to share.

So, will I ever go back? I don't know. We'll see where the Lord leads me but for right now, I'm done. And it feels good.

In order to reach me, you can email, snail-mail, or simply pick up the phone.
I would love to hear from you!