Life without Facebook
- Life is incredibly spacious and eerily silent without Facebook. I am intimidated by the expanse of pristine, fallow time. At least now I have—I won’t say no—less escape from it. It confronts me almost impudently, a challenge and an invitation. It’s actually more inviting than intimidating. I’m still getting things done spasmodically. Do I dare to waste less time?? It’s like venturing into the ocean.
- (from a letter to a friend planning lunch) This is one way in which getting off FB has ALREADY enhanced my life — I’m making plans to ACTUALLY SEE MY FRIENDS! It’s amazing! FB becomes a kind of low-effort substitute that over time creates a deficiency, a drained, anemic feeling. What is this? It’s loneliness! How can I be lonely when I “see” so many friends every day? It’s like looking at pictures of food when you’re hungry, at least for me. Plus, since I don’t have a job job, I have to structure my own time and motivate myself, and FB is absolute death to that.
Ambiance 
Paul K. said,
September 4, 2019 at 1:00 pm
I am attempting an “aggressive taper” of my FB usage. Trying to use it as a legitimate communication tool as I would text, email, etc. rather than for entertainment. My efforts to date have been mixed day to day. I admire your willingness to abandon it.
amba12 said,
September 4, 2019 at 1:09 pm
I wasn’t so much willing as compelled.
wjca said,
September 4, 2019 at 6:26 pm
I’ve managed to survive for years without Facebook. I admit that it may be easier to survive when one never started than to stop. I’d say it’s like other addictions in that way.
Full disclosure: I do have a Facebook account. In order to be able to read stuff of interest which might be there. (For example, on of my favorite musicians only puts his up-coming gigs there.)
amba12 said,
September 4, 2019 at 6:29 pm
It’s good to hear from you!!
wjca said,
September 5, 2019 at 10:58 pm
I’m just glad you’re back writing an occasional piece here.
amba12 said,
September 5, 2019 at 11:11 pm
One of the boons of getting off Facebook.