Ramblings on “Social Networks”

There seems to be an emphasis by some these days to accumulate a lot of friends and expand their “social network.” Internet social utilities such as Facebook and MySpace have created a unique phenomenon whereby our circle of friends (or lack thereof) is publicly displayed and distilled to various lists and rankings. And so the race is on to see who can accumulate the biggest list of buddies, thereby boosting their on-line popularity quotient.

Reminds me of another race currently being run; that is, the race to see who will be the next leader of our great country. Not unlike those interested in boosting their on-line popularity, the runners in this race are frantically trying to accumulate friends of their own; often willing to remain elusive on issues so as not to risk offending anyone by taking a firm stand.

Be careful to keep friendship in perspective. Strive first to live a life of consistency and integrity and then enjoy the company of those who are drawn to you for the life you live out before them. King Solomon reminds us that “a man of too many friends comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Think about it.