Re-sharing with explicit permission from my old friend David ... This story should be mandatory reading before anyone signs up for a social media account. Words matter, folks. The kind and the unkind. ................ My family suffered an inestimable loss in the tragic suicide of my nephew Ethan Lee. I have waited to mention this on Facebook because I was very conflicted by how social media was used after the incident by others. Also, cyber-bullying was a significant contributing factor to Ethans death. I do not think we have come to terms with the power of social media to hurt, confuse, or console. In some instances, my stepsister and parents appeared to have gained solace from their family and friends on the net. In others, thoughtless comments that few would make in person worsened the situation. My views: -Emphasize kindness and respect with your kids every day. -Do not let them use apps that allow anonymous comments like ask.fm or formspring. I had no idea before this tragedy that these sites could serve as a toxic bullying environment. -If you want to offer words of encouragement to grieving friends, call or visit if you can. If you post on-line, do not broadcast it until some time has past. Send a private message. Give the family time to notify loved ones personally of the loss. Otherwise, young family members may hear of a shocking loss from a trite Facebook posting. -Do not miss a chance in this busy world to stay connected with family and friends. Life is precious and fleeting.
Posted on: Tue, 01 Apr 2014 00:46:11 +0000
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