Dear young friends,
“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all” [2 Corinthians 13:13].
In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our lives. It offers us a platform to connect, share, and express ourselves. However, with this power comes a profound responsibility to treat others with respect and dignity. As young people navigating this vast online landscape, it is essential to remember the impact of our words and actions on those around us. And as you may guess, the following words are grounded on my experience as a social media user.
Voice. Our voice matters. Every post, comment, and message we share has the potential to influence others. Social media can be a powerful tool for good, allowing us to inspire, uplift, and connect with people from all walks of life. However, it can also be a space where negativity and hostility thrive. It is crucial to use our voice wisely, promoting positivity and kindness in every interaction.
Respect. Respect is the foundation of all healthy relationships, both online and offline. “Treat others as you would like to be treated” [Luke 6:31]. This means refraining from hurtful comments, bullying, or spreading rumours. Remember that behind every profile is a real person with feelings, hopes, and dreams. The teachings of the Church remind us that every individual is created in the image of God, deserving of love and respect. Let this truth guide our interactions on social media, and may our Sunday School classes on this very topic come back to our minds and guide us as we journey through life.
Think before you post. Before hitting “send” or “share,” we are invited to take a moment to reflect on the potential impact of our words. Let us first ask ourselves: “Is this respectful? Is it kind? Will it uplift or hurt someone?” Thoughtful consideration can prevent misunderstandings and promote a culture of respect. The call to be “quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger” [James 1:19] is especially relevant in the fast-paced world of social media. We are called to remember that “our desires to make social media a more human and relational space must be translated into concrete attitudes and creative gestures” [Dicastery for Communication, Towards Full Presence: A Pastoral Reflection on Engagement with Social Media, 2023, No. 50].
Positive dialogue. Engaging in constructive conversations is vital. Embrace the diversity of opinions and perspectives that exist online. Instead of dismissing those who disagree with us, seek to understand their viewpoints. This approach fosters a respectful dialogue and helps build bridges rather than walls. As we walk through the roads, mounts and valleys of life, we are encouraged to engage with one another in a spirit of neighbourliness, promoting understanding and compassion.
Be a witness of love. Your online presence is an opportunity to reflect our values and faith. Let our actions speak louder than words. Share content that inspires, educates, and uplifts others. Be a witness of love and compassion in all your interactions. Remember that we are not just communicating information; we are sharing a part of ourselves and our beliefs with the world.
Commitment. As we navigate the world of social media, may we commit to being a force for good, and may we embrace the responsibility that comes with our voice and strive to create a respectful and compassionate online environment. Together, we can make social media a space where everyone feels valued and heard. Let us build a community rooted in respect, kindness, and love.
May Christ’ Light guide us in our journey, inspiring us to be witnesses to the Gospel, hope and respect in this rapidly changing [and digital] world.
Yours in Christ,
Dominique Mukonda, CICM
