Taking the high road: Social Media

I am on facebook but post very little on my wall or public pages. I belong to a few private/secret groups where conversation is a lot easier and, even those with differing opinions are polite and considerate.
I also have a business presence on facebook. but don;t put too much there.
Other than that, I will occasionally troll twitter.
And then there’s here!

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I use them mostly as follows
Facebook is for keeping in contact with family and friends mostly
Twitter is where I sound off on views, issues and topics
Instagram is where I post pics of family mostly
YouTube is where I follow and find lots of DIY fixes, 2A supporters, reviews on products, places to go etc.

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I remember back in the 90’s some college friends showed me message boards and chat rooms (nothing weird). It was immediately evident that the people with the most sarcastic, sharp tongued, and derogatory comments were the most popular. Not for me.

Since then, it seems like the popularity of social media has exploded, only increasing the incidence of inflammatory commentary. I remember back when FB was just taking off, flash mobs (some fun dancing groups, some calls for violent confrontations, and even group theft organization) started popping up throughout the country. Again, not for me… although I have danced in public when I was younger. :stuck_out_tongue:

I do occasionally post on a social media site or two, but its only to keep in touch with family/friends that live in other states or other countries.

Remember Microsoft’s Tay AI on Twitter? - https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2016/03/microsoft-terminates-its-tay-ai-chatbot-after-she-turns-into-a-nazi/

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I did Twitter for awhile but deleted that account about 2 years ago. I realized I was getting caught up in the LIKES & FOLLOWERS trap so I chose to sever ties. I never did Facebook or Instagram. It seems folk can’t politely or respectfully disagree with one another anymore. Also, there are too many internet gangsters & social media revolutionaries out there.
In summation, I realize I just want to live a quiet & peaceful life & that I’m not really interested in what others are doing/saying. Protect yourself by disengaging & focusing on the things that truly matter. We have a finite amount of time here on earth. LIVE & LIVE WISELY. :v:t5:

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Facebook has something like red flagging… someone reports you and FB does what it does. No recourse most of the time.

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I’ve used their reporting system for blatant hate speech and they disagreed with me and did nothing. :angry: Another reason I am reducing my other social media usage.

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I loved to read social media’s posts made by wise and knowledgeable people. I don’t buy newspapers anymore.
But today’s easy access to computers and anonymous conversations moved me away from all FB, Tweeter, Istangram… what else? :woozy_face:
I hate all “keyboard clickers”, hidden behind the screen; “brave”, unnamed experts… :face_with_symbols_over_mouth:

I’m “old type human”, prefer to talk face to face if possible, discuss during meetings, parties, etc…
I’m using “Skype” to talk with my Family in Europe, “Linked In” to contact my business partners… but these are used to make life easier, not to spit out the anger…


:scream: :scream: :scream: :scream: :scream: :scream: :scream: :scream: :scream: :scream: :scream: :scream: :scream:

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There are times I love to read the rants of the keyboard warriors… Some of their arguments are just entertaining. :innocent:

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I kinda hate Facebook. It has become an obligation. However Instagram is way more fun.
You can find me @Sully_LST.

I resist most of the Socials. It should be a happy place, not a battlefield.

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You don’t keep yourself safe on the internet. I left Facebook when they passed new policy saying they could use your photos for commercial interests. I didn’t want to become the poster child for Viagra.

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I realize that this is an old conversation but, it remains relevant in my opinion. I voted in the poll and selected Instagram as my only SM platform that I take part in (aside from this one).

I used to have a FB and TW account. Both “communities” have become so volatile that I walked away a year ago. At that time, I did so out of a desire to remove myself and my reputation (a good one) from the arena of cancel culture and character attacks that follow.

But, after completing the prerequisite USCCA online Instructor (pre-course - course) I was reminded by the Chief Instructor Michael Martin of the importance of avoiding and defusing conflict both in social settings as well as on the road as the driver or a passenger in a vehicle. Social settings include “Social Media” even more these days.

In my past profession, I’m no stranger to the Court room and I am very familiar with the tactics used by both Prosecutors and Defense Attorneys. For me personally, not only am I going to heed Michael Martin’s words, I will be passing them on to any students in my classes.

In my opinion, I have a right to say what I want to and post what I want to on social media. However, I believe that it’s prudent to ask myself the question: “Is this something that you would want a Prosecutor to read, or a Jury to see”? "

Pictures on the internet stay forever. Words used in a heated argument with neighbors, friends, family and the general public about a controversial and polarizing topic will also remain forever. Law Enforcement Agencies are adept at electronic and computer forensics. And they work for the Prosecuting Attorney, they don’t work for you.

And sadly, that includes this posting. However, I am proud to share this and I would have no problem with a Prosecutor or a Jury seeing this post.

Think before you hit “SEND”.

Stay Safe.

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And when everyone is easily offended if you do not agree with them or walk in lock-step, the “stay forever” is even worse.

I had once believed the Bill of Rights, and in particular the 1st and 2nd amendment would “stay forever”. Oh well.

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