Social Media Squabble

 Aloha Reader,

One of the ways I attempted get justice for myself and my son last year was through social media... unfortunately, the efforts didn't result in success for us. In late April of 2024, I decided to downgrade my personal technology use to a simple flip phone & turn off use on all social media platforms. In other words, rewind the clock & go old skool. This worked out well for the summer months, too. Rather than post photos of new friends and experiences, I was fully immersed in them, saving pics for my diary. Plus, the SF Bay Area made it very clear their position on my case - why bother talking to people that don't truly listen to me?

Over my lifetime, I've utilized many social media platforms, beginning with AOL instant messenger in the late 90s (which to me, would be considered more of a social engagement platform). In late 2020, I decided to use social media primarily for my community efforts, sometimes highlighting my own efforts and accomplishments. I cut ties with Facebook in 2020, only to re-join in August of 2023 to promote social causes. Like many folks, I utilized social media as both a business tool and for social connection. Yes, it fed my ego when people complimented me, but it never defined nor changed me. Often the encouragement from others fueled me to increase my community outreach efforts on social media. Here’s a newsflash/reminder many people today need: what others think of you doesn't define you as a person. Unfortunately, many people don't understand this concept and social media has gotten truly out of hand with an obsession of 'likes', often leading to personal insecurity and jealousy.

In the fall of 2023, after my release from El Camino Hospital, I created a new Instagram handle under my full legal name to share my story/get justice. By April 2024, I was so frustrated, I gave up on Instagram. I realized my network and community only wanted a free show and as I follow the Huna philosophy principle "Effectiveness is the measure of truth", let’s be real: It wasn't effective. Also, at the time, I had fun engaging with Twitter/X, very often calling out bad behavior and telling it like it is. But certain people don't like that, so eventually I got banned for content on both Twitter/X and TikTok. (Gee, when I got banned on Tiktok - my favorite relaxing platform, in early 2024, I knew my story & message were powerful - haha!) And my 'banned' content was mostly me calling out corrupt politicians & leaders - ha! This is in opposition of Elon’s “Free Speech” propaganda, wouldn’t you agree? More hypocrisy from greedy, white men! By then, it felt par for the unfolding course of events in my life.

One of the harshest truths that’s prevalent in our modern world regarding technology is the privacy myth, which is often sold at an high cost to consumers. A sense of false security is sold by companies and everyone’s information is being shared. Anyone can be targeted.

Learning to live freely, embrace authenticity and own your true self in this modern world deserves a medal at this point, in my opinion! I’ve had a lot of experiences which led me to an unshakable inner peace, despite everything I have learned about invasion of privacy. For that, I am incredibly proud of myself. Being able to fully engage, enjoy and be present in conversations with friends is the highlight of my life today. 🙏🏻

One more social app deep dive share below…

In late December of 2024, I created a Facebook profile in order to connect to a former contact in her 80s. (It truly is hard getting in touch with my 80+ aged mentors!). My account got suspended shortly after. While annoying, it wasn’t a huge surprise to me, given my outspokenness & influence within an expanding, powerful network. Liking posts & adding a few supportive comments and posts didn't follow 'community guidelines.' per Facebook. Or was it just me? Another targeted action, by corrupt CEOs? Truth be told, I don’t have any proof nor care to fantasize about that theory for longer than 5 minutes. I did spend several hours with one of FB CEO Zuckerberg’s personal chefs a year ago.. and well, that’s enough details there. Hopefully, that guy is locked away in a cell soon, right?! Guilt written all over his damn face. Most people, in their right mind, can mostly agree something is definitely not right with that guy.

While there are many positive outcomes from social media, unless used properly, it can wreak havoc on humanity. On a hopeful note, may we utilze it as a human race for brand awareness and to spread joy, share knowledge, unite & spread good vibes. And maybe turn off the camera every now & then so we fully absorb our company & the present moment.

What has your overall experience been with social media? Mostly positive or negative? Please feel free to comment below.

With Aloha,

Heidi