Those of us who are resistant to learning new technology recall thinking that when someone met their dates online that they must be desperate. How many of us also had trouble getting up to speed on the job as our fields went from hand-written notes to the computer?It’s all about networking. Now, keep in mind that you do need to use common sense and avoid possibly harmful scenarios. Use it for suitable purposes and don’t abuse it. Just like etiquette, we may need to do a little research to learn what is appropriate before beginning.

Websites and blogs are the new calling cards. They should reflect who you are and your values. What is presented will determine who is attracted.

One example of staying in touch was with my daughter. After she graduated from college and was on her own for the first time in another state, she thought of a creative way for us to attend church together.

She had found one that she liked. They had live loading serviceability. She would go to the service and tell me to get online and watch it. Then, she would call me subsequently and we would talk about it. I was excited. When the kids were teens they had lost interest in church and thought it was boring. She had found a way to put excitement in it. It was a lot of fun.

Some of the social networking I haven’t really caught onto yet or enjoyed due to undesirable reactions. But, in this day and age, no one even talks on the phone. It’s all texting or media.

So, this year, it’s time to get up to speed. Just think, now we can chat with people in foreign countries and even find online display aids. Those who are deaf can have discussions using a keyboard. There may even be aids for the blind. Those unable to speak can discuss as well.

I wonder what this year will hold. I look ahead to learning to utilize social media. I want to use it to make a difference in our world. If I can offer words of motivation to the oppressed, depressed or shut-ins to let them know they are not alone, I may make new friends along the way.