I check in on Foursquare then check off the “Share with Twitter” icon. It goes out to the masses. I removed the Facebook option since, well, I can now open up my Facebook app and check-in there.
I don’t do Gowalla anymore — it’s a poor man’s Foursquare, and really, a colossal waste of time. Not that any of the others aren’t.
Then today, I finally jumped on the Instagram bandwagon. I took a picture (the one accompanying this post), framed it in one of the native hues and posted to the application. Now anyone can discover the image and like it (or not) and offer commentary.
I spared my Facebook and Twitter friends by not connecting the apps and cross-posting. But by enabling my smartphone’s location based system, I was in effect, checking in at the location where I snapped the picture.
And there are scores more apps that perform similar service. Are we so busy checking in that we’re not pausing to enjoy the beauty? To appreciate the nuance, or even recognize it? Or are we only looking for those images that translate well on social media platforms?
So many applications, so little time. Wait a minute, shouldn’t it be so much to see, so little time?
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All things in moderation. I love Facebook, for example, because I have reconnected with friends as far back as when I was 6 years old, nearly 48 years ago! (That’s right – I will soon be 54!) I love foursquare because I get to catch up with what my 22 year old niece is up to. I love Twitter because I have learned so much and have improved the quality of my practice while meeting so many wonderful people. I love being able to be available to my 82 year old Dad wherever I am via my smart phone (and being able to look up information to answer his questions). I love sitting in my backyard and reading on my Kindle. I love taking our dogs for a walk while listening to my Ipod. Technology to enhance life, not replace it.
Beautifully said, Pam! Thanks for that.