I recently came across a concept that likened netizens on Social Media platforms to church members with unique characteristics converging at church with different expectations in their mind and ending up with different outcomes. I found the analogy to be quite interesting and decided to put my thoughts about it in writing.
Social media is undeniably one of man's greatest inventions. Over the years, it has provided a platform for people from all over the world to connect with friends and family, stay informed about the world while sharing their interests and passion to everyone and anyone who would care to listen.
In fact, I'd argue that it might actually be man's greatest invention with the only exceptions being Garri and everything you can take with Garri.
With the little time I've spent on the internet, I've come across quite a number of articles warning about the adverse effects of Social Media on society and why people should limit their interactions on SM platforms or avoid it totally.
While there are valid reasons to justify these "warnings", methinks there's a need for people to also start talking more on the plethora of opportunities that have been made available through these platforms.
I believe there are certain psychological and emotional factors that make people want to focus more on the negatives rather than the positives, but that is not the main bone of contention here so I won't be going into that.
Now, how does all these relate to a church and why should you even care about it at all?
Well, if you stay with me a little bit more, you'll get the answer to the first part of that question. The second part? I have no clue on how to answer that.
Social Media and The Church
One major similarity between the church and Social Media is that everyone comes on both platforms with an expectation. Regardless of how little or how big it may be, everyone comes expecting to take back something or satisfy a need, and one major factor that determines one's experience in both cases is whether or not those expectations (or needs) are met.
In a way, we can say that these two platforms (The Church and Social Media), can be a place of comfort and community for some while also being a source of negativity for others. And one's mindset might just be the main difference between both parties.
Of course there are several other factors that determine both outcomes, but I believe that the most important determinant is the mindset with which one approaches these platforms.
There are different variations of "mindsets" that people come on Social media with, but I'll just narrow it down to two - those with a "Firm and Discerning" mindset and those with an "Unclean and Feeble" mindset.
The Firm and Discerning
One of the most important concepts in Christianity (and most religions) is faith, and this is why ministers often enjoin congregants to have faith always because it can greatly help in getting answers to their requests quickly.
Just as it is with the church, individuals who approach social media with discernment tend to use it to enhance their lives significantly. They see Social Media as an avenue to learn and connect with people from all walks of life. They know what they want and stay true to always using the platform for honorable reasons.
The Unclean and Feeble
Some people who go to church, go with all sorts of infirmities and shortcomings in hopes of getting rid of them. Same is the case with SM, but unlike churches, some people tend to come on Social media with their issues, not necessarily to get "healed" of them, but to infect others around them with same infirmities whether consciously or unconsciously.
Feeble-minded individuals take advantage of the anonymity that SM provides to spread all sort of unwarranted hate and negativity.
Everyone is Invited
Regardless of the mindset or intentions of individuals, everyone is still invited to participate. Just as a church is open to all, regardless of their beliefs or background, social media is open to all who want to use it.
However, it's important to remember that just because we are all here together on social media does not mean that our intentions or interests align.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, there are numerous ways that social media can be likened to a church. It can be a place of solace and camaraderie, but it can also breed hate and bitterness. Each of us must adopt the right attitude and utilize social media in a way that improves both ours and the lives of those around us.
By doing this, we can make sure that social media continues to be a beneficial influence in our lives that meaningfully connects us all together.
Addendum
For the sake of Non-Nigerians, "Garri" is a local delicacy that grants instant superpowers to anyone that takes it. You don't have to take my word for it. DYOR
