Facebook and Social Networking: Are We Making "Real" Connections?

I have a confession. I am one of those people who gets ecstatic about new friend requests on my Facebook account. I will gleefully click on my newly added friend's profile with all hopes of finding out about a long lost friend. But that's just it. It's like opening a box of memorabilia. It can in no way replace the experience of seeing a friend in person, hearing their voice or feeling their embrace, By accepting a friend, I have just read over a profile with only the information that the individual wants me to see. Is it real? Does this really take the place of true friendship?

You might be saying, well, I think Facebook helps me to be connected with my friends since I am able to read updates, exchange comments, and stay current in what is happening in their lives. I completely agree that Facebook gives us the opportunity to do all of these things, but my argument lies in the authenticity of what we are reading many times. Is it real, or is it smoke and mirrors? Let's face it. How many times do we post recent financial difficulties, a disagreement with a spouse, or the loss of a job? That would be too negative and could potentially tarnish our image that we have created. And besides, do we really want everyone reading about those things? Yet, when we have a true friend, we are able to share the good and the bad with them in confidence that they will be there for us and not use what we have told them against us. Can you remember a time you were able to communicate deeply, in person, with a friend about something going on in your life? Now that is an experience that is difficult to be replaced by Facebook.

Am I against Facebook? Absolutely not. It is as part of the normal routine of my day as brushing my teeth. I can't wait to check on everyone's updates and post a few witty comments of my own. I have been delighted to find people that I knew from elementary and high school. But, do I consider all of my Facebook friends, truly friends? Well, no. The word friends has become an overused word to denote an acquaintance. As I continue to use Facebook, I always take everything with a grain of salt remembering that, for me, an online social network can in no means replace the one to one heartfelt exchange that I need with friends and people.