The Giving Tree is a children’s book by Shel Silverstein that follows the relationship of a boy and a tree. Why would we choose this book as a basis for our blog? We will be discussing friendships and how they grow, or in some cases, stop growing. In particular, we will be discussing social media and its impact on friendships and relationships in this digital age.
Because of the growth of social media sites, friendships have been altered as there are many more ways to stay in touch than have ever existed before. Today we will look at Facebook as a tool for growth within and among friendships.
Facebook launched in February of 2004 and has become a worldwide phenomenon with over one billion users. Facebook users share many things on their pages and are able to interact with their “friends” in forms such as wall posts, messages, etc. By now, we most likely all know how Facebook works.
While there are many negatives surfacing surrounding Facebook, we believe that it still serves as a great tool, when used appropriately, for keeping connected with friends far and wide. It’s user-friendly navigation has made it possible for friends to keep in touch and share things with each other in a matter of seconds. Who knows what will change next in the Facebook world, but for now we are still loving the fact that it connects so many people all over the world in a truly unique way.
Do any of you have stories about your friendships and Facebook? Please share!
After going to college I realized the total benefit of having a facebook account and the ability to use social networks. With friends at schools all over the world, it allows you the ability to keep in touch with them but to also physically see them. Skype also is another great way to keep in face-to-face contact and give you the chance to feel like you are right next to the person. It allows you to keep updated with their lives when you have the chance.
What a terrific metaphor for friendship! Facebook and other social media tools really do help us to stay in touch. While they may have downsides, they are also useful. The key, it seems to me, is in using sensibly and thoughtfully.