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Social media norms

Hi folks

This weekend is marked by many of the sporting organisations boycotting all forms of social media in an attempt to highlight the abusive comments directed at the players and staff of many of the world's most supported teams.

It seems that abuse and accusations have become the ""norm" on social media in the recent years. I detest the fact that people (whether anonymously or not) feel that it is appropriate to share their opinions and prejusdices online, especially when their views hurt or offend others.  Let me make my own view very clear - I DO NOT FIND ABUSE ACCEPTABLE IN ANY WAY! It is also inappropriate to use an anonymous account that hasn't been verified - and in this respect, the platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram - and so many others) should change their rules to be able to track every user on their systems. I'm not suggesting that they should track everyone, but there should be a mechanism that they could track everyone!
 
I'm a Christian, unashamedly, and I use my account to share my Christian views, but never in any way to hurt or alienate others, that's clearly not what Jesus intended our faith to impart! Our whole lives, both physical and digital, are part of our witness to our faith, and everything we either say, write, tweet, post, and act should reflect our love of God and each other.  We are commanded - yes, commanded - to love one another, and that means everyone, not just those whom we choose to love. It's not an easy task, but a difficult and worthwhile one.   When we truly love one another, then no matter what we each think or value, we can find plenty of reasons to care for one another and not fall out and fight!
 
If I have ever offended anyone, I have immediately apologised and removed the post.  I have been involved with firends and colleagues in disputes and arguments, but again, I hope that I have been careful to defend my own views without offending theirs.
 
I agree that we should take a stand against all forms of abuse or racism - whether online or in the "real" world.  If this is a first step towards regulation of social media, it is a worthwhile one - especially for the many victims that have been hurt by comments made against them. 

I'll finish as I always do - by signing my own name at the end of the statement.  While I do not claim to represent our whole parish, or Church of Ireland - I would sincerely hope that their own views would agree with mine!  I'm hoping that I'm speaking with other Christians, not for them!
 
May God bless you all
Johnny
 

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