This is the not the first Lent that I have observed a Facebook fast. I first adopted this practice during Lent in 2010. I am embarrassed to admit that I really struggled with this decision this year, even though I felt fairly certain that it was the “next right thing” for me. Even more now than in 2010, many connections to my various communities are maintained through my FB newsfeed. Yesterday, the first day away, I missed the news about a dear friend’s mother passing away until one of my loves remembered that I was out of the loop and texted me to make sure I knew. Today, I received an email from another friend to make sure I had heard; further reassurance that those other modes of connection still work if the news is important. It also made me feel loved and cared for that people had noticed my stepping away and knew that I would want to hear this news. Thank you, friends! Community is my favorite!
Still, in spite of the feeling that I might miss something, I know that this time away from Facebook will prove to be significant. I think, even more than last time, I need a season to quiet a few of the voices in order to hear God’s more clearly. In this season of transition and new directions, I often find myself spinning my wheels. This Lenten season, I have a hunger to dig a little deeper into the places I get stuck, so this seemed one way to create space for God. Especially because I seemingly have NO ability whatsoever to disengage from FB once I log on. I blame all of you, my dear FB friends! 🙂 While I am away, I would love to increase the “conversation” here on this blog, so I hope you will comment, if you find yourself visiting.
As I re-read this post I wrote last time, I find that most of what I wrote is still accurate and applicable. Especially the part about how much I LOVE Facebook! And how I have no opinion or judgement about anyone else’s use of FB. Please read:
Why I Gave Up Facebook for Lent
Are you giving something up for Lent? Or adding a spiritual discipline? Would love to hear your thoughts!
Kelly, I am laughing right now because I am sitting here at the computer (and on facebook) because I don’t feel like mopping the kitchen floor. I think procrastination is a common factor for many in FB use, as well as using it as a shortcut to connect with people. And it can definitely be less satisfying, which is probably why I have trouble stopping once I sit down. If it were more satisfying, I think I could pop on quickly and then move on to my to-do list. I definitely need that week of media fasting in the 7 study this year. I was pretty good for a while after our 7 exercise last year, but it has crept back up. And here I sit with many, many other things to do…Kudos to you on your fast this year! And I am looking forward to reaping the benefits of your time spent writing like it is your job. I love your blog and I just know that many great works of words will be flowing out of those fingers of yours onto your keyboard!
I KNOW!! It sucks you in, doesn’t it? Although anything is better than mopping the kitchen floor. 🙂 Thank you for all your gracious encouragement of my little blog. It means so much to know that my words connect to someone as smart, kind and “Jesus loving” as you!