Dear Virtual People, and
by this I mean anyone who’s ever tweeted, re-tweeted, favorited; facebook
statused, liked, poked or tagged; blogged, followed, or commented;
and anyone who’s ever operated or considered operating any device through which to access cyberspace,
Let’s talk. Then again, you probably don’t want to.
Most Virtual People don’t roam about cyberspace to engage in the art of
discourse - excepting the warmhearted blog community that invests with earnest in
human connection. This is rare. That’s the problem, and it’s monstrous: the rapid
pace at which we’re blasted by bits of news or inanity, much of which propels
us further from humanity.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m fine with meaningless shards launched
through cyberspace. In fact, I’m responsible for some of it (e.g., my recent
tweet series “originating” from Snooki’s fetus, poor thing). I believe in mocking
the world’s idiots - especially those earning millions for being themselves. Deny
it or not, life is really tough for most. And we could use regular doses
of hearty laughter. So, why not at the expense of those who can afford it (and
the country of Belize)?
Pure hatred, though, has no place here nor anywhere. Last week I saw a tweet that paired Jews and
ovens in the same message, with seeming levity. I was sickened to a point of
tears. I’d previously followed this twitterer without pause; he seemed funny. In
the few seconds it took me to message and then un-follow him, his fan base shot
from 6,496 to 6,500. I find this highly disturbing. Hate spreads like wildfire,
even faster when propelled by the social media AND disguised as lighthearted
banter.
Listen, Virtual People, we are the privileged few; only 25%
of the world’s population has access to the Internet. Let’s use this privilege for good and not
evil. Towards that end, I’m setting some rules:
DON’Ts:
- If you spent your workday playing Angry Birds
and downing beer, don’t boast about it. Much
of the world is unemployed. Nearly half of the labor force earns $2.50 per day,
and many risk their lives to bring home this pittance. Keep your spoils under wraps. Thank
you.
- If you’ve enjoyed an orgasmic foot or other
body-part massage by the world’s greatest lover, the one you’re unbelievably
lucky to have captured, don’t boast about it. Spare us from nausea (and crazed
jealousy). Thank you.
- If you ONLY spew bragging bits about yourself, partner,
or child/ren, stop. It’s annoying. Thank you.
- If you’ve just returned from a fabulous trip, share
photos but not all 500 of them. Thank you.
- Do not ever post mean and stupid, hateful
messages, “joking” or not. Thank you.
DO:
- Spread
cheer, compassion and humor. We need it. Thank you.
Finally, a NOTE ON THE POKE: The poke’s a unique tool,
worthy of special mention. Keep in mind that, when considering poking, the
intended recipient might not be in the mood and may thus be unresponsive.
Repeated poking could be construed as harassment. Tread gently.
Thank you, Virtual People!