Mrs Vee’s Cup of Words – Beware of what you post online

The past few months have been very hectic in the social media world.

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Social media discussed and debated Bonang’s A to Z grammar mistakes, the book about Nelson Mandela’s last days and a child who became popular for producing a meaningless song – the Thol’ kuthi song.

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It trended to the point of getting DJ Euphonik’s attention. The death of actor Dumi Masilela was also under discussion whilst his wife’s decision to wear white, and not black at his funeral, was also scrutinised. Another hot topic was the husband who killed his wife in front of her learners after he had shared messages on social media about suicide.

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All the above made me realise the extent to which we are slaves of social media.

Half our lives, if not all of them, are controlled by what is trending.

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We are at a point where we allow ourselves to entertain the wrong things and make them ‘the norm’.

We now have social media warriors – people who think they can say what they want to, whenever they want to without any repercussions. Some even do so under pseudonyms.

These ‘warriors’ enjoy attention for the wrong reasons. As a society we allow them to have control over situations.

As a parent, I fear the type of generation we are raising – it does not look like a very responsible one.

We are allowing children and the youth to be exposed to so many opinions with little advice and support.

I’m not saying that social media is all bad. I am saying we need to ensure it does more good than harm.

Sharing an embarrassing video of someone can result in hurtful and even harmful comments. Did you ever think about the extent to which the person’s self-esteem will be affected.

We now live in times when young people get depressed because they live in a world in which they need validation in a form of ‘likes’.

The more likes and interaction, the more “in” you are.

When did our criteria for success stoop to this level?

This does not only pertain to the youth. Even middle-aged people feel the need to fit in by posting hurtful material on social media.

How many social media warriors – do you think – would take the same stance in front of millions when they are face-to-face with them? Would they be bold enough and say half the things they say online about other people?

I’m sure very few would have the courage.

The cyber world can turn the ugliest of people into kings and queens.

People can have millions of followers in the cyber world but none at all in real life.

The next time you buy data and are about to trash someone online, step back and give it another thought.

Put yourself in that person’s shoes for a minute before hittting ‘post’ or ‘share’.

Because some social media warrior posted an idea or comment, does not make it true, valid or relevant.

I love social media. It has the power to change lives and can raise so much awareness for issues that are really affecting our society – but only if it’s done right.

Ask yourself before any posts: Why am I posting this? Am I a social media warrior who is causing more harm than good?

If what you are about to post online, can not be said in person, then do not share or post.

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