20151217 Social filter

Multiple friends have recently remarked how much energy it takes to manufacture a happy face on social media. I'd like to reframe that: of course we filter ourselves; we want others to see us in the best light possible. We tailor our images consciously and subconsciously. That is good and appropriate like filtering our speech: we don't just blurt out every fucked up thing that comes to mind. In fact we are all a little fragile, and generally appreciate the efforts of those around us to maintain civility and good cheer. But we would also like to know others can understand our suffering. Make no mistake: each of us, regardless of positive image cast, have our own slew of fears and follies and failures—and some days question whether we can even make it 'til tomorrow. While it may seem most of your friends are doing better than you, that is probably not the case; we are not all above average measured by any metric. We're in this daily strife and struggle together. So, even while crafting your brand, flying your flags, and raising the tone—also keep it real: occasionally admit your shortcoming, expose your weakness, confess your sin. Seeing a flawed human (that is, a human) survive and thrive is more inspirational than perfection.