FACADE

It feels great to be in an easy, fun, and prosperous season of life, but I know I experienced the most personal and spiritual growth during the hard times.

One of the dangers of social media is falling for the perfect facade posted by others. We all want others to think the best of us, and it’s kind of become the norm to only speak and post about the upbeat and fun parts of our lives lest we be labeled a “Debbie Downer” or a “Karen” or get told we need to move on because our pain makes others uncomfortable. I’ve been there. I know, and it’s embarrassing and sometimes heartbreaking, but I leaned on the Lord even harder, with all my weaknesses leaking out all over the place. Guess what?

He held me tighter.

In the process, I learned others were feeling the same way. Sure, social media is kind of like spilling your guts with a blanket over your head while peering out of a little hole, but the ice was broken. I’ve made several friendships via painful bonds, and we support each other. We’ve called each other, cried together, and prayed together. One such friend crossed the veil into Heaven, and I felt her loss as much as any other.

This is how social media helps instead of hurts. In a step of faith to be honest, we overcome together. That’s what authentic friendship is all about.

Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. Ephesians 4:25