Why we need to turn off Social Media during a tragedy.


Social Media at its best is a tool that allows us to keep up on current events. Events that are enticing, humorous or upsetting. It is one of the fastest ways to gain information about anything that is happening around the world. Once we hear or read about these things we feel the need to share or comment on them. I ask you though; is it really necessary to comment on some things? I understand the media distributes occurrences and facts but sometimes, relaying opinions on tragedies is like speaking during a moment of silence. There is an upside and a downside to commenting on tragedy, and sometimes we just need to turn everything off and reflect and sympathize.


 Sharing information in support of people is noteworthy. Support pages and groups align together to show sympathy and support for loved ones. Candlelight vigils and affectionate tears help those who have lost. Social media gatherings can let these people know that the world is behind them and encourages them to stand strong in the face of death. There is no greater depression than the loss of a loved one. The unscrupulous monsters that prey on our  innocent leave holes in our bleeding hearts. They can never be repaired and institute our need to be held up by others. If it weren't for the bond of humanity bracing us through our most difficult times, we would fall into our personal hells and dwell in the depths of denial and pain. Never would we move on, never would we advance and regain our strength.

Strength and support are two things that help get us through. Others being strong for us, provide support in our most dire times of need. Whether it comes from close friends and family, mother's across the world, or something beyond our realm we can feel the compassionate braces of love resounding throughout our body. This is what social media can do for us. It can amplify compassion and sympathy and reach out to the people who need to feel it most.


The downside is that people also feel the need usurp a tragedy as a tool towards a cause. Saying that this happened because of this reason or that. This does not show the compassion or sympathy that is needed. Instead of using a tragedy towards your cause, why not try to empathize with the victims? Why not say, I feel for you, you are in my thoughts, and I will support you in this time of need? Using social media to complain or utilizing a horrific event towards a cause does not benefit the suffering. Yes, actions need to be taken but to express it on the day or even the day after? No, that is not helping anyone. There is a time and place for things. Expressing a need for action immediately after an event is uncouth to say the least.

Once you receive information about a tragedy, it sometimes will do us good to turn off social media. Reflect upon the events, pray for the victims, and hold your tongue until the appropriate time. There are too many opinions and not enough sympathy. Don't argue the points surrounding horror, embrace a respective silence. If you really want to say something, then say you are sorry for their loss. Do not parade your ideals about why this happened or how it could have been prevented. At least not right away. When something horrible happens it is the time to practice solemn silence and an empathetic ear.


If you cannot hold back your thoughts during an event, at least try to edit them accordingly. If you can, turn off your media and provide silence. There is nothing worse, than people talking about your situation while you are struggling through it. You may think you are showing support by producing reason, but ultimately there is no reason for what happened. It is sad, tragic and monstrous. Nothing we can do will make what happened different. Please, just show your support and sympathy. If humanity is one thing, is is strong, compassionate and supportive. I request that we only amplify these virtues during such demoralizing times. They can only help.


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