A study a few months ago suggested that “strangers can cheer you up.” I’ve found this to be quite true, and in the online space it’s just a few clicks away.
There have been too many moments to count where I’ve been beaten down by the world and the easiest thing to do, at that moment, is to hop onto the internet and state something somewhat pathetic in a somewhat desperate plea for help, attention, empathy, and response… and the temptation is overwhelming.
In fact, it’s so overwhelming that you don’t even think about it.
Why? Because it’s so darn easy.
I’ve seen a lot of this and I think the challenge is to hesitate for just a second and realize that although the response may be extremely pleasureable, with tons of random strangers engaging in active discourse, I’m not sure if the long-term impact actually did much of anything.
Actually, I lied. It does do something, and for me, it accentuates the feeling of loneliness. Hyper-connectivity reveals hyper-disconnectivity.
I think the internet has shown me an even greater importance on real flesh and blood relationships and the power of true friendship.
[Image from Sergei]
So true
Like any false reality… the feeling doesn't last and is addicting. If I invest more in virtual friendships to the expense of those sitting across the table from me… I'm missing something of greater depth and significance.