Social media is a fun way to post photos, videos, and updates about your life while also connecting with others near and far. Almost everyone has at least one form of social media. Even my grandmother has a social media account!

There is Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, Facebook, VSCO, and many more.

Using social media is an excellent way to spread awareness of different movements or organizations. Recently, the Black Lives Matter movement has swept over social media. Following the tragic death of George Floyd, both teens and adults have utilized their social media platforms to voice a need for change in the world.

Madison, a good friend of mine, was only eighteen years old when she used her social media for a project that she was a part of. Madison's father died during her junior year of high school after struggling with Leukemia Lymphoma.

So, during her senior year, she was chosen to participate as a contestant for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society's Student of the Year Program. Within this program, students spread awareness of this disease while also collecting donations for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society.

Through her presence on social media, Madison managed to raise $25,000 in her campaign!

Social media also allows people that may live many miles away from each other to connect and stay in touch. These platforms having chatting abilities where people can comment on photos or privately talk in a Direct Message.

Many people have been able to maintain online friendships, in which they meet through social media and continue that friendship through social media.

Online friendships manage to develop an important emotional connection, establishing a strong sense of trust between friends.

The best part is being able to express yourself through social media. On their accounts, people can display their political beliefs, religious beliefs, and different opinions on different events that have occurred.

Many users can create an entire account dedicated to one specific topic such as a television show, a book, or a celebrity. While some may receive judgment for their opinions, the best option is to ignore and continue.

Every person is entitled to their own opinions, even if it contradicts someone else's.