I was one of those people who used to wonder why people published Mother’s Day posts online when their mother, who did not even have a social media presence, was right there next to them. Why not talk to them directly?
That was until I started writing such emotional, mushy posts myself. But with a small twist – I read them out to my mom as well.
My 65+ year old mother does not use social media because all the options and features intimidate her. I can see the cheer on her face though, when I tell her that I have posted something online. She tells me to read them out to her. She proceeds to ask how many people liked the post. “What did they say?” So I read out the multitude of comments. This questioning continues throughout the day. Satisfied with the likes and comments, she moves on to some other distraction. The post is now forgotten, but in that period of time, it gave her much interest and joy.
I have always felt most people express things better when they write it out. It is the reason why even mental health professionals encourage journal writing.
Express all you want online, but don’t forget to read it out to the person to whom it is dedicated to. Or at least make sure they have seen it.
Trust me, the smile you will get, will truly be worth all your scribbles!
The Monkey Dilemma 