In my new essay, I reflect on how growing up in the digital world shaped my friendships, from early AOL chats to today’s endless scroll on social media. It began with simple moments like waiting for a green light next to my friend’s username, which felt like a secret portal to a world of another side of us. Yet, as time passed, the thrill of online friendship changed, with digital conversations growing shorter and fading as real-life responsibilities took priority.
Later, on Facebook, our connections transformed as “likes” became a currency for friendship and validation. The anticipation of every new notification and the act of liking a friend’s post felt like maintaining a bond, even as the connections themselves became more fragmented and superficial. The meaning of these online gestures evolved as life got busier, and social media became more of a habit than a space for real connection.
So.. What kind of values do our digital interactions carry today? Find out through the link! Show Less
