It wasn’t until I was playing follow the leader with my son today (even though I could still barely move from my sinus meds) that I realized we were living in a time of “following.” Following the biggest loser, the so-you-think-you-can-dance dancers, bachelors, bachelorettes, American idols, America’s talented and just about anyone and everyone on Twitter, Facebook, etc.
Why have we become obsessed with following everyone? Maybe because their lives are so much more entertaining, maybe to prove that they are just ordinary people like everyone else. Hey…just because you think you can dance doesn’t mean you can or that is all you do, right? It’s like the sections in all the Hollywood gossip magazines. “They are Just Like Us.” No, really, did you have to tell me that? Then there’s a picture of some superstar walking their dog, driving a car, picking up their mail. Shocking, isn’t it?
Following each other is pretty exciting, I will have to admit. Otherwise, how would I know that an acquaintance I had in high school is now living in Montana and doing the dishes at this very moment. Or how else would I know which Disney princess a friend of mine was most like or what his/her score is on 80’s movie trivia. How would I know that my 5th grade BFF literally lives a few blocks away and I haven’t seen her in over twenty years (did I just date myself)? I especially love the tweets and updates with daily affirmations. If not for those, how would I keep on going with my day unless I knew that “a journey begins with the first step?”
It keeps me connected with anyone and everyone. No need to meet up with friends to find out how they are doing, I simply read their tweet or Facebook update and voila…I know. No need for “let’s catch up.” I’ve already been caught up from your “all about me” sections.
I have to admit, it’s not all that bad. I have met great people (not in person, of course), gotten in touch with old classmates, friends and family and now even my mother knows what I am doing and where I am at all times (according to my updates).
So, if you are on Facebook or Twitter…feel free to add me. Twitter: Jew_Mama (make sure to include the underscore, otherwise you will be adding someone else). Facebook: Jew Mama.
I look forward to meeting you…virtually.
