A Facebook View of Self
Wednesday, March 19th, 2008One of my favorite things about Facebook is the “Photos” section. Let me be a little more specific: I like the division between the “Added by [your name here]” and “Added by Others.”
“Added by [your name here]” Photos
These tend to show the world how we want to be perceived. We like the way we look in these pictures. No embarrassing photos get posted here, unless we want to be perceived as goofy or funny.
For instance, on my Facebook photo section, I have uploaded this picture:
I like this picture because it’s artistic, and I like to be seen that way.
“Added by Others” Photos
These pictures are completely raw. They are pictures that betray how others see us. They don’t go through the airtight filter of our own self-perception. They may actually be a better picture of who we are because of this.
If you get plastered at a party and dance on the table, it’s only a matter of time until a picture taken with a camera phone ends up on your Facebook page.
If you dress like a slut in Cancun, watch for your picture on Facebook!
And the beauty of this whole thing is every visitor to your photo page gets equal access to your view of yourself and others’ view of you.
For instance, my friend Dave posted this old picture of me for the world to see:
I could live without the world seeing me in my “Look Like Tom Green” days, for sure, but Facebook makes sure the world doesn’t forget.
Or what about this one from my friend Rosyln?
I’m not even sure what to say about that picture.
All of this reminds me of Paul’s words in Romans:
Romans 12:3
Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves…
One thing about Facebook–it helps you apply this verse.