In a world revolving around social media, everyone wants to be in the loop. Posting photos, sharing life events, and seeing what others are up to. But when does it become too much? How much are you missing by posting on social media?
I had a rude awakening on August 17, 2015. Five other of my sorority sisters and I had planned a fun filled day at the Iowa State Fair to see country diva Carrie Underwood. We spent the day eating fried foods, admiring the sights, and anxiously waiting for the concert.
The time comes when we go into the grandstand and a little while later Carrie comes on stage. The grandstand is blowing up with screams of excitement. I grab my phone and take photo after photo after photo. I start sending photos through Snapchat, posting those same photos on Instagram, and even sending them to my mom. This goes on for about five songs and then I realize I am watching Carrie Underwood through my phone’s screen. This itty-bitty screen is showing me Carrie Underwood when she is right in front of me. I look around to see hundreds of tiny lights in the audience. I am not the only one doing this, but it feels crumby.
Why was I so focused on putting my photos on the Internet? I then realized I wanted all my friends to know that I was at the fair seeing Carrie Underwood. I wanted to show them how wonderful she was. But most of my friends already know how wonderful she is. If my friends wanted to see Carrie live, they would have gone to the concert. There is no need to send hundreds of photos to people! The reason for the photos is for my own benefit, for my own memories.
I heard the phrase “live for the moment, not the photo” about a week before the concert. This is exactly what I was not doing at the concert. I was trying to live through the photos and through social media rather than focusing on enjoying my night listening to music with my sisters. I never thought of myself as one who would be glued to their phone like this.
After taking one last photo I turned off the WiFi and data and put my phone in my purse under my seat. I felt so ashamed for letting my phone take control. The point of going to the concert was to enjoy watching one of my favorite country singers. From that point on, I left my phone in my purse. By doing this, I was able to focus and actually take in the sights and sounds. I felt free and relieved that I was able to do this for myself, no one else.
Reflecting upon my night, I wondered what else I have been missing. How else has social media taken over the exciting moments of my life? Posting to social media does not make the moment. It is more important for you take in our surroundings and the events that are before you. Experience life through your own eyes. Those moments are meant for you!
