Remember the first time you sent an e mail? It was so exciting to write to a friend or relative via the internet. No more sitting down with cramped fingers to write a real letter. No purchase of stationary and stamps, or trips to the mailbox. It was just as exciting to receive an e-mail. And then there was Facebook. For some, it became the ultimate form of braggadocio. Look at my wonderful life! But for most of us, it was a fun way to share photos through cyberspace with family and friends. But have you noticed what’s happening lately? Are Facebook & E Mail becoming obsolete?
While I used to look forward to opening my e mail, now I dread it. Usually, I have at least 50 e mails from people trying to sell me something. And then there are the political e mails. For some reason, both the Democrats and Republicans think I might be interested in their causes. Maybe it’s because of my blog. I’m apt to criticize or comment on any male or female politician, regardless of their party. But if I criticize a Democrat, the Republicans think I may want to contribute to their campaign, and vice versa. They’re both wasting their time, because I won’t send money over the net to any political candidate.
Why do I keep my e mail account active? Because for some family and friends, my old e mail address is the only way they know to contact me. Especially if we haven’t kept in touch. And there are times when you need it for changing passwords and doing other business.
Most people in my social network seldom use e mail. They text. I used to resist texting because it’s difficult to use cell phone keypads with arthritic fingers. But there’s no longer a choice. If you can’t text, you’re out of the loop. Pictures, too, are much easier to send with messaging.
For the past few years, Facebook posts have become annoyingly political. I like seeing photos of your kids and the rosebush in your yard, but I do not want to read your rants and raves about Trump, Biden, or any politician. Don’t you think I have sense enough to form my own opinions at this age? There’s one group I belong to which has posts about growing up in my city. These are what I would term neutral. No one can get mad about seeing an old school building or skating rink. But generally speaking, fewer and fewer people are active on Facebook. And those who are, post less frequently. .