For those of you who follow my Facebook, Twitter & Instagram, you are probably aware of my decision to go “social media dark” for the next 3 months. Though in the grand scheme of things many may say that this is no big deal, I have recently become painfully aware of how dependent I really am. Everything from our relationships to our economy has been built around social media, and it quickly has become the primary vehicle for “touching” as many people as possible.
Instead investing time with a few friends, we flip through the newsfeed of hundreds. Instead of exchanging numbers, we exchange Facebook addresses. Instead of making phone calls, we send texts.
The last few years I have acquired over 2000 friends through my travels, adventures, and activities. 95% of which I actually know! The others are people who have been recommended. I don’t say this to toot my own horn, on the contrary actually. Though I am so thankful to meet so many amazing people and have such fantastic opportunities, I have realized that my heart and my personal life have suffered tremendously.
I have always been the girl that has pounced on every opportunity.
I have always been the girl that juggled things and people.
I have always been a people pleaser.
For the first time ever, I have realized that there is much more…. But it takes LESS to actually get there. In my heart of hearts, I crave intimacy and authenticity. I love quality time, great conversations and face-to-face interaction. Unfortunately, it is impossible to live the life that I do and be able to experience this daily. So… I have decided to unplug for a while. For the sake of good friends, stronger faith, peace and productivity…
No more noise. No more distractions. No more excuses. No more filters. Just me.
Though the possibility of losing touch, losing friends, losing opportunities and losing digital companionship is a bit unsettling, my desire for MORE overrides it all.
It’s time that I hit the reset button and step out of my comfort zone. It’s time to focus on my new job and give it everything I’ve got. It’s time to step outside of the bubble and learn how to love face-to-face, even when it’s difficult. It’s time for healing and restoration. It’s time for me:)
I will miss you all, but hope that those of you who have my number will reach out when you can. Though it has become a bit archaic, I want to give “people” the time, undistracted attention, love and authenticity that they deserve. For the rest of you that I cannot see, know that I appreciate you, I am praying for you, and I can’t wait to hear all about what happens in the next three months!!
Happy Thanksgiving,
Merry Christmas
& Happy New Year!
May our Father in Heaven extend the FULLNESS of his Mercy on you always!
SIDENOTE I HAD TO SHARE: I experienced a bit of cold feet yesterday, but then I received an email with a blog post attached (see below) that CLEARLY confirmed my path. The timing was much too perfect to be a coincidence. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did!!
Dear Miss Mary 
Hi Mary,
Happy thanks giving to you. Thanks for the blog. It is an eye opener as we do spend alot of our valuable time on social media.
Blessings and enjoy and be refreshed in your sabbatical.
Denzil
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