What ever happened to the idea that “discretion is the better part of valor” or that even a bit of discretion is necessary now and then? It seems to Auntie that with nearly every bit of our personal information now available online, it might be even more valuable to keep some of your personal life, well, personal. Quite a novel idea, don’t you think?
Recently while Auntie was scrolling through one of the many sites she frequents, she happened upon a post from some dear soul, sharing the most intimate secrets of her daughter’s life. Did the daughter know of this share? Probably not. Would that daughter care? Most likely, yes. And besides, when would any teen want their mother to share anything with anyone about their life?? Auntie is going to make an educated guess here and say, “Never ever.”
Naturally Auntie was compelled to write a Helpful Hint (#164) about this obnoxious occurrence:
Telling us the story of your teenage daughter’s coming-of-age definitely qualifies you as an over sharing mother—even if you are doing so on a cleverly hidden internet site. Would you tell this story at a State Dinner, or while accepting a nationally recognized award? If not, then save the share for your personal diaries. By saving those shares, you are not only salvaging many a friendship—you are also saving your child from permanent humiliation, and the need for counseling. In this case, it is indeed the mother’s fault. Of course, if the share is truly unique enough, we just might be able to get you a two-picture deal.
So there it is—a little reminder that the internet is indeed forever, and a word of caution to some darling parents and grandparents (not to mention kiddies)—sadly, the days of Grandma’s funny family pocketbook photo album are long gone.
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